I've been thinking about...

The Justice and Witness Listening Sessions.

The Justice and Witness Committee of the Southwest Conference is completely revitalizing. I’m not just saying that because I’m a part of the committee! Though, to be honest, it is exciting to see and be a part of.

No, I’m saying that because there is renewed energy and enthusiasm not only among members of the committee, but in our churches and amongst our church members as well.

You’ll remember that there was a Justice and Witness Summit back in February — a two day event to help churches and church leaders refocus our historic UCC commitments to justice. From that two-day event a new plan emerged. The Justice and Witness Committee asked that each congregation in the Southwest Conference (all 44 of us!) host a 1-hour Listening Session, where members of the Justice and Witness Committee could hear all of the exciting things that we are up to and about here at the Encanto Community Church AND so that they could hear the things that we are passionate about. It is a “Listening Session” because they are coming to listen to us.

On Sunday August 16th I helped to facilitate one such Listening Session at South Mountain Community Church. South Mountain is a small, aging UCC congregation in South Phoenix. But they are up to some amazing things! The hour flew by quickly and there were still more things to share and say! It was empowering for members of the congregation AND for those of us from the Justice and Witness Committee.

Here at Encanto we’ll be hosting our Listening Session on Sunday September 20, after worship. Please join us, and add your voice to the good work of justice in our church!

Yours in the journey, Rev. Brian