Do we live in unprecedented times? Is this season more apocalyptic than another? Has ecological overshoot, a rise in political authoritarianism, drone warfare, sea level rise, widening economic disparity, genocide in Gaza, raging storms, wars in Ukraine, Iran and other areas, and other atrocities put us on the brink of an unprecedented era?
I recently read Brian McLaren’s 2024 book, Life After Doom: Wisdom and Courage for a World Falling Apart. The words “Wisdom” and “Courage” especially caught my attention since our last CDC theme was “Listen! Wisdom is Calling,” and our new theme is “Rise up! Take courage.” And just as the old hymn, God of Grace and God of Glory pleads with God, “Grant us wisdom, grant us courage,” so this seems like an appropriate prayer for this season. Where are we finding wisdom in the church today? How are we becoming courageous disciples of Jesus in a complex and intertwined world?
I’ll share a few glimpses of wisdom and courage that I’m observing across CDC. My first observation is that we value rest. That may sound antithetical to “Rise up!” but we cannot rise up well unless we are centered, rested, and whole. I am grateful for the three-month sabbatical that I was given from November 9-February 16. And I know of several CDC pastors who recently returned from sabbatical or are embarking on sabbaticals soon. Wisdom and courage invite us to care for our bodies and souls.
Secondly, we are not alone. Few things make me happier in my ministry than hearing stories of pastors sharing ideas and supporting one another or when congregations partner together to learn, grow, share, and serve together. The “Rise Up! Take Courage Grant is an excellent example of congregations sharing resources across the conference to meet immediate needs. (Read the Missional Church and Matt Prichard’s report for stories about this grant.) Another example of connecting is through our “Companion Congregations” project. Linking CDC congregations with congregations in Mennonite Church Manitoba is a great way to witness to the fact that God does not recognize national borders. I’d love to see six to ten more congregations build relationships with our Manitoba siblings. Ask First Mennonite, Bluffton and Mennonite Church of Normal about their experience. Wisdom builds relationships.
Courage leans into conflict. I’m a conflict avoidant person by nature. But I keep growing toward a recognition of conflict as an opportunity for honesty, prophetic witness, and greater self-understanding; self-understanding for both individuals and communities of faith. Whether there is conflict between a pastor and a lay leader, between two members of a congregation, or between a church and the broader community/culture, wisdom and courage are essential for the journey through conflict. When misconduct and boundary crossing happens in the church, Mennonite Church USA and CDC have people trained to assist. I am grateful that Kristin Sanken is our Church Safety Coordinator, working closely with MC USA staff when such conflicts arise. Matt and I are also available to talk with congregational leaders to assess and assist when conflict arises. Wisdom and courage invite reaching beyond ourselves to journey through conflict.
I am grateful for the generosity of our congregations and individuals who support our spending plan. In my ten years as conference minister, I have not had to worry about having enough financial resources to cover our expenses. Not every conference in MC USA can say that! Through generosity, wise stewardship, and excellent staff, we are freed to engage in ministry without financial stress. One change that the board supported was my suggestion to move to 80% time beginning January 1, 2026. We will continue to monitor our staffing model to ensure we are serving the conference well. Thank you for your wisdom and courage to support the ministry of CDC.
Where are you noticing God’s wisdom? How are you rising up in courage for the facing of this hour? Let’s continue telling our stories, encouraging one another, and sharing our resources as we Know Christ’s Love…and Answer God’s Call.
Doug Luginbill, Conference Minister
