Image (l-r): Emily Ferguson, Abigail Skelly and Kristin Dalbrun together at Pilgrimage 2023.
By Emily Ferguson
Over 30 people gathered at The Tops last week for churches of Christ’s annual Pilgrimage, a two-day orientation to our network.
It was a brisk Thursday morning when we, the pilgrims, arrived.
For two days, our journeys intersected with one another and with churches of Christ.
We learned about our network’s story and way of being, and we had the opportunity to share something of our own stories – our own selves – and be seen, heard and affirmed.
Pilgrims were there for a range of reasons.
Some had just started in new ministry roles as a chaplain or pastor, others represented churches that are exploring gospel partnership with churches of Christ, and still others who had been connected with our network for many decades were there to grow deeper in their knowledge of who we are.
Leaders from Fresh Hope Communities, ACOM, Global Mission Partners, The Churches of Christ Property Trust and our Network Resource Team helped us understand more about their ministries and where we have come from as a network.
Additional sessions addressed leader and church health – including safe ministry practices, healthy ministry rhythms and pastoral supervision.
“It is also a chance for those gathered to meet others and be encouraged by the work of God in and among the network of churches,” said Anne Simpson, Network Health and Engagement Ministry Leader.
Pilgrimage was more than orientation to an organisation by information. It was an orientation of posture, of heart, of values, and of a way of being together in God’s kingdom for his glory.
There was learning and questioning, and there were tears and laughter and healing.
We pray that our pilgrims continue onward from this shared experience assured in the valuable part they play in this network as together we partner with Jesus and his wider church in the restoration of all things.
Read more stories from churches of Christ in NSW & ACT HERE
