Core Values: Common Learning
By Rev. Dr. Tim Catlett
Members of our New Room Society covenant to live out our mission to co-create new spaces for new people to be gathered into communion with Jesus Christ by committing to the shared values of common prayer, common learning, and common practices. One way we live out our shared value of common learning is through participation in Common Learning Days three times each year.
In February, we gathered together for our first hybrid Common Learning Days event in almost two years. About 15 active church planters, discerning pastors, and students gathered at St Paul’s UMC in Carolina Beach, with another 15 participants joining us online. We are so thankful for the ways technology has allowed us to bridge the gap between in-person and online gathering spaces.
Rev. Danielle DeNise, Director of Evangelical Mission for the NC Synod of the ELCA, joined us and invited us to explore the core values which shape new faith communities, and how co-creating those core values with our communities help to shape decision making and give us direction during conflict, stress, and seasons of renewal and rebirth. Also, several of our new church start pastors shared their own stories and experiences and how they are navigating this work in their contexts.
However, while the teaching was rich and timely, it was doing this learning together which made it holy work. Creating something new can be lonely, and coming alongside one another to support and challenge each other is an incredible gift. God promises to always be with us, and most often I discover God’s presence is made known to us through each other. I continue to be so thankful for the privilege of journeying alongside this community of pastors and leaders who are dreaming of ways to co-create communities where new people might find meaning, purpose, belonging, and communion with the Triune God.
As always, thank you for your support. To make a financial contribution for 2022, please visit us online, https://nccumc.org/new-faith-communities/.