The last time I wrote about the issue of space, it was out of disappointment. Core members had decided then to reserve for themselves the final decision on this matter. This time I write from a sense of hope. While it is not clear how the community will make decisions in the future, or what its decision will be this time, we have been encouraged to participate. Before Seekers makes a major financial commitment on space, issues of belonging, decision making and leadership need careful reconsideration.
Few things weigh mainline churches down more than their buildings.
Once there is debt to meet, who belongs, how decisions get made and how leadership is handled all tend to be decided in light of the pressing financial demands. We are in a privileged time and place where we can give further careful attention to these key issues. They can lead us to the right kind of space. Seekers' sense of identity is a useful guide in this matter. Belonging Belonging is a key issue.