What makes the RC Gathering unique?

1. The goal is conversation with one another.

   Of course there are presenters (see below) who have a unique perspective or passion that will be given space to share. But the idea is for the presentations to lead into conversation so we can speak with one another. The RC gathering is for you to listen AND participate. Each voice and particular context makes the conversation richer and deeper.

2. We want to have conversations from a place of hope rather than from fear.

There is much to be fearful of in our world and time. But the RC gathers with a hopeful posture for the future of our movement. We seek to respond to what the Spirit is doing among us rather than react to fear and anxieties bred by what is happening in the world and in our churches. That leads us to different questions. Instead of, "How do we keep the church alive?" we bravely enter into ancient and contemporary stories to witness, "What is God doing among us?" Free from the obligation to save the church, we wait, give thanks, and imagine how to participate in the Good News... together.

3. This year our gathering will focus on the theme of discipleship.

Discipleship has become a “buzz” word for churches. But what does it mean? How can we think about discipleship beyond multiplying metrics through the lens of good news, evangelism, scripture, and curiosity? The conversation this year will seek to unpack this rich declaration of our identity as disciples of the Jesus story.

4. The RC is a “priesthood for all believers.”

YES! Any and all people who have been created in the image of God are welcome as equals. We practice power with, not power over. Even more, we strive to dismantle any minister or leader “hierarchy’s” while seeking to treat everyone with equal dignity and respect. This means Elders, Children Ministers, Student Ministers, Preachers, Church Leaders, and Professors all standing on equal ground sharing with one another.

5. A commitment to a high view of the written, living, and spoken word of God.

All that we do and discuss is rooted in the story of scripture. There will be critical and thoughtful theological perspectives, sermonic movements, and practical invitations for the “what if’s” of a local context. And as we clearly state in our theological commitments: “We believe this story continues through the active work of the Holy Spirit in God’s world today.”

6. We place value on worship and silence.

If you come to the Gathering, there will be space to listen; not just to one another but to what God reveals through what is shared. One of the valuable things we do in our gathering is sit in silence before we share with each other. Even more, we will spend ample time singing together. After all, isn’t that one of the hallmarks of our heritage… the invitation to sing?! So come with ears ready to hear and hearts ready to worship.

7. We create space for laughter, lament, and deep fellowship.

Part of the culture we seek to create at the RC is not taking ourselves too seriously. Yet we also recognize there are moments when we must grieve alongside of one another in the midst of the injustice of our world. It’s a good mix… and we try to stay in tune with what the Spirit is doing among us.

We would love to see you. Click on the link and get registered today.