Christpower

Column by Bishop John Shelby Spong on 25 December 2008 0 Comments
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Question

I attended your talk at Plymouth Community Church in Minneapolis some weeks ago and found it inspiring, educational and a joy. It was clear from the large crowd (most were members of the church's congregation) that many were followers of yours. Are there any groups or gatherings in this area with the express purpose of discussing your ideas and a new Christianity? I am not a member of any church at this time but would like very much to explore these issues with others who are interested. Thanks in advance for any assistance you can provide.

Answer

Thanks for your letter and your comments. I have been to Minneapolis on several occasions and I find in that city an exciting number of churches that, if I were a lay person, I would find it a joy to attend. One is the Plymouth Community Church. It has an outstanding pastor and is a vital congregation. Another is the Hennepin United Methodist Church; St. Mark's Episcopal Cathedral is a third. All are open, active, forward looking congregations with outstanding clergy leadership.
I spoke at a gathering in Minneapolis two tears ago sponsored by the Twin Cities Gay Men's Chorus. Members and/or pastors of over 100 congregations of all denominations came to that gathering, proclaiming their churches as "open and affirming" churches. I would bet that any of them would be places where you would find what you seek. I also find the faculty of the United Theological Seminary open and exciting. My guess is you could call someone like Robert Albers, who is a member of that faculty, and he could recommend other churches. So could James Jelinek, the Episcopal Bishop of Minnesota and one of the best bishops in our church.
You are lucky to live in a place that offers so many options. I hope this will be helpful to you. My best wishes in your search.

~John Shelby Spong 

 

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