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Gathering 2006 was a historic convention (our 88th!) for the MB denomination, with delegates strongly affirming the Board of Faith and Life’s resolution on women in ministry leadership. It was also an occasion to assemble on the campus of a secular university.
In the past, we’ve usually held conventions in churches, but increasingly, we book other venues for our larger meetings. Some may miss the cozy atmosphere of a church and the oh-so-familiar pews, but others see the university setting as ripe with opportunity.
What happens when a denomination gathers in a public place? The following are a few vignettes for consideration:
- Two Chinese students walked past our MB Herald display booth and leafed through a copy of the MB Chinese Herald. I wonder if they were startled to find a Chinese language publication at a Mennonite convention? I wonder if they read something in those pages that will change their lives for eternity?
- A Muslim group conducted its daily prayers in a room just above the main hall where we met. The men knelt on brightly woven carpets. The women sat veiled behind thick black curtains. I wonder what they’d say if they discovered the freedom MB women have to be part of the worshipping community, and to pursue their God-given gifts and passions?
- After evening sessions, delegates embarked on late-night walks back to the dorms, resulting in encounters with groups of intoxicated young people stumbling home after the Calgary Stampede. I wonder if the students noted the joviality and camaraderie (sans liquor) among our groups of delegates? I wonder if they saw the fellowship they longed for?
- A young Muslim woman attended a Gathering workshop led by Columbia Bible College professor Gay Lynn Voth about discipleship in a skeptical generation. “The woman is making a point of visiting different religious meetings to build bridges between religions, rather than remaining ignorant of those who are different, and becoming entrenched in prejudices,” said Voth. I wonder if the woman sensed an authentic welcome from attendees at the workshop? I wonder if she felt drawn by the person of Jesus? I also wonder if we give as much room for curiosity, questions, and doubt to those in the church as we extend to visitors?
- A visiting professor from Australia stopped at the Board of Faith and Life table to pick up some pamphlets and learn more about Mennonite Brethren. I wonder if our theology, centred in God’s Word and filled with the language of grace, made an impression on the professor’s mind and heart?
Was God’s Spirit present at Gathering 2006? Undoubtedly. Did God surprise us as we met in the middle of a busy, secular place of learning? Most definitely! If nothing else, our self-awareness was heightened. We carefully thought about our actions and attitudes, realizing others were watching. Our spirits were stirred, recognizing an urgent call to share our gifts with the world.
So, what happens when a denominational gathering takes place in a public venue? We hear a prophetic voice saying, “Wake up, church! People are watching; God is at work. The kingdom of heaven is among you!”
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