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I’ve found two new adjectives appended to the word “church”

The first is “micro-church”.

There are many definitions and practices of what a micro-church is.  Most often attached to a larger church or church network.  I would call this a small church (micro is sort of like small?). 

In this sense the micro-church is a (hopefully) organic representation of the larger church or network.  While the definitions are still being formed, I see this most often as a hierarchy model  that begins with a sending/planting agency.  As I have studied small churches, their definition often starts as a group of like minded people, meeting together, and then seeking out a network or denomination.  This would be a communal model.

The second is “hybrid church”.

The idea is that a church is hybrid,  both in-person and on-line.  Seems straightforward.  Until you ask if a virtual presence can be a church.  Or if an in-person group can admit those who do not physically gather with them.

I harken back to history.  In the early days of radio, my denomination’s outreach into Western Canada included radio ministry through CHMA radio station.  They ran communion services on-air.  Is this church?

Any other new adjectives for the church?

On Sunday, Pearl died.

Almost 96 – and a feisty old ager at that!  She was a friend that  I will miss. 

I first met Pearl when she was overseeing the local seniors home back in the 1970’s.  She ran a tight ship – nothing seemed to escape her notice.  And the residents benefitted from her advocacy for them.

I returned to Kindersley in 2005 – Pearl was still around.  Advocating for a seniors complex for those not yet ready for full care, but wanting the amenities of meals and friends with the freedom to roam.

We would laugh over her dislike of my favourite hot drink – any tea with enough milk to cloud the tea taste!  And crumpets – don’t get her started on that.  At hymn sings she was always present and singing.  Chats at morning devotions were always lively. 

Pearl – a true treasure.

My brother-in-law provides weekly quotes in his sermon notes.  Here is the one from this past week – well worth considering:

I am beginning to realize that every point in one’s life at which one loses everything is far more a beginning than an end, for one has lost merely the past, and one has yet to gain the future, and eternity itself – Douglas Gresham

We are in the midst of trying to figure out our next project.

Renovation, building and design all come into play.

We could build a new garage – which would become a shop, vehicle storage and a storage area.

We could finish off our basement – which would become a recreation, rest and storage area.

We could purchase a house down the block – which would become a rental unit and possible storage area.

We could purchase a heritage building in a town nearby – which would become a research centre and storage area.

Ah ha!  Maybe I should explore this whole fetish I have for storage?