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Many Voices, One People, One Mission
A Call to Increased Understanding and Appreciation of Our Diversity
LEADING THE WAY TO FULL ENGAGEMENT
We applaud the extraordinary efforts that have been and continue to be made throughout the ABCUSA to insure that representation is a part of our rich heritage in the area of diversity. We also acknowledge that many voices struggle to be heard and that some express a desire for more meaningful participation. Because ministry in a denomination as richly diverse as the ABCUSA is a multi-faceted experience, achieving the full rewards associated with this gift requires leadership that is wise, patient, and tenacious.
Questions for Consideration:
- Are we fully recognizing the many cultures and leaders and their gifts, styles, talents, and competencies that are a part of the ABCUSA?
- What evidence do we have to support our response?
- What can be done to improve our reality in this area?
- How easy or difficult is it for others to interact and provide leadership in our ministries?
- For example, would bi-vocational pastors find it difficult to participate in the life of the denomination?
- Given that a vast majority of bi-vocational pastors are ethnic pastors, what might that mean in terms of our decision-making processes?
- What do we do to ensure that everyone who is seated at decision-making tables experiences a sense of being heard?
- How might we increase our sensitivity in ways that will help us to hear others and empathize with their perspectives?
- Have we fully examined the ways in which access to decision-making tables are impacting ethnic, generational, and special needs groups?
- Do we perceive the cultural diversity of the ABCUSA as a gift or something else?
- Why do we believe that God has given ABCUSA this gift of diversity?
Resources: Resources available spring 2009
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