Education for Ministry [EfM]
In this post-modern world, personal opinions abound. From newspaper “Op-Ed” pieces to Facebook posts, Tweets, Instagrams, and Blogs to Radio and TV talk shows to campaign speeches for public office. It seems that everyone has an opinion on just about every topic. And whether we share our thoughts and feelings openly or keep them privately to ourselves, each of us have opinions too. So let me ask you, “What are your beliefs, preferences, questions, and liberating insights about God?”
This question is derived from a statement made by Fredrica Harris Thompsett in the preface of her book “We Are Theologians”. Her assertion articulates one of the core principles of the Education for Ministry (EfM) program, that being, whenever we make a habit of studying or reflecting about God and God’s impact on our lives, we are developing, refining, and living our own personal theology. Now does this sound dangerous or potentially even heretical? I suppose it could be if done in a vacuum. But when engaged as part of a mentored, group activity, using scholarly materials, it can be both a safe and enriching experience.
Four years ago, in the summer of 2012, I attended an informational meeting for a growing EfM program within a pair of local Episcopal churches: Grace (downtown) and Christ (on 40th street). The faith traditions among their group members included former Roman Catholics, Lutherans, Methodists, Baptists, and cradle Episcopalians. However, what we shared in common was a desire to better understand God, and by doing so, ourselves. In May I “graduated” after completing all four years of study: Old Testament, New Testament, Church History, and Church Theology, and this Sunday my mentors will be at St. Andrew to recognize this milestone in my life.
While they are here, I would like to encourage others within the St. Andrew community to speak with them about this program. I know there are several “seekers” within our congregation who I believe would thoroughly enjoy (and grow) through this experience. The commitment is manageable with a meetings one evening each week, along with some personal time for reading and reflecting during the preceding week. I cannot begin to tell you how much my faith and relationship with God has grown because of the discussions held within this group. I feel truly blessed to have listened to the call and ventured out in faith. It was a wonderful experience for me, and I believe it could be for you as well!
Prayerfully reflecting,
David Krueger