It is past time to reimagine, or perhaps return, to an ecclesiology that is healthier, more just, more effective, and rooted in greater integrity. We turn primarily to the epistles of the New Testament, pastoral letters written to new congregations seeking to become the church in their local communities. The advice and encouragement found in these letters ground our exploration, while the structure of the nursery rhyme “Here is the Church” aids us in engaging our playful side, opening ourselves to creativity and flexibility.

This series was born from a season in a congregation that was experiencing new people joining the life of the church who had never experienced church before. Because their conceptions of what church is and what it is for were only influenced by popular culture, they can be set up for disappointment. The church can feel like it is lacking because what the it is and what people think the church is are in conflict. Many congregations also experience tension between the pastoral leadership and the laity, between various leadership bodies, or between generations. This series provides an opportunity for congregations to establish a shared ecclesiology.