The podcast discusses the evolution of the emerging church movement, including the departure of important figures and the shift in dynamics. It explores publishing partnerships, setbacks, and collaboration with youth ministry. The hosts reflect on the movement's emergence and evolution, and discuss a shift in storytelling approach and upcoming episodes.
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Quick takeaways
The emergent conventions provided spaces for open and honest conversations, fostering a sense of community and friendship.
The emerging church movement's transition from innovative ministry practices to a deeper exploration of theology and social ethics shaped its identity and impact.
The emergent conventions embraced openness, participation, and creative expression, breaking away from traditional church practices and reimagining the possibilities of community and worship.
Deep dives
Vibrant Energy and Creative Spirit: The Emergent Conventions
The emergent conventions brought together a diverse group of individuals seeking to challenge traditional norms in church ministry. These conventions were characterized by a vibrant and creative atmosphere, embracing arts and aesthetics to create a welcoming and participatory environment. Mark Skandret, an artist from San Francisco, and Lily Loon, a preppy youth pastor, played instrumental roles in shaping the atmosphere and architecture of these conventions. These events provided spaces for open and honest conversations, and attendees were encouraged to engage in theological reflection and exploration. The conventions fostered a sense of community and friendship, with connections and relationships forming that would continue to influence the emerging church movement. Overall, the emergent conventions were a catalyst for new ideas, collaborative efforts, and a desire to rethink how faith and spirituality can be expressed and experienced in a changing world.
Transitioning Boundaries: From Exterior Forms to Deeper Questions
The emerging church movement underwent a significant transition in its focus over time. Initially, there was an emphasis on innovative ministry practices and worship styles that catered to younger generations. However, this soon evolved into a deeper exploration of theology, philosophy, and mission. The movement began to ask challenging questions and venture into a realm that challenged the acceptable range of answers within evangelicalism. This transition stirred a shift towards an inward journey, followed by a reexamination of theological beliefs and a renewed focus on social ethics and politics. The emerging church movement's exploration of these boundaries and the desire to go beyond the established norms led to both growth and criticism, ultimately shaping the movement's identity and impact.
Embracing Openness and Participation
The emergent conventions were marked by an embrace of openness, participation, and creative expression. Attendees were encouraged to actively engage in the conventions, experiencing multi-sensory worship, and interactive prayer stations. The conventions provided a space where various forms of art, such as photography, poetry, and spoken word, were celebrated and appreciated. The focus on experiential and experimental elements aimed to break away from traditional church practices and invite individuals to explore faith and spirituality in new ways. This emphasis on participation and creativity fostered a sense of honor and appreciation for diverse voices, including women in ministry. The emergent conventions became a platform for building friendships, fostering connections, and reimagining the possibilities of community and worship.
Navigating Paradigm Shifts and the Need for Boundaries
The emergent church movement not only challenged traditional church practices but also confronted deeper questions within theology and philosophy. These explorations often pushed the boundaries of acceptable answers within evangelicalism. As the movement shifted its focus from external ministry practices to deeper theological reflection, the emerging church faced increasing resistance from mainstream evangelical circles. The movement's willingness to question, rethink, and critique established norms resulted in a paradigm shift that offered new possibilities but simultaneously faced criticism and opposition. This tension highlights the importance of establishing boundaries and defining the emerging church movement's identity amidst evolving beliefs and practices.
Friendships, Transformation, and Lasting Legacy
The emergent conventions brought together a diverse group of individuals, fostering deep friendships, and connections that would shape the emerging church movement's lasting legacy. Mark Skandret, Lily Loon, and many others played crucial roles in creating an atmosphere of creativity, openness, and spiritual exploration. Through participation in the conventions, attendees experienced transformation, discovering new ways to understand and express their faith. The conventions served as catalysts for innovative thinking, collaboration, and the sharing of ideas. Ultimately, the emergent conventions became a significant chapter in the ongoing story of the emerging church movement, leaving a lasting impact on the way faith is practiced, understood, and engaged with in a changing world.
By 2001, a lot had changed for the nascent emerging church movement: Doug Pagitt left Leadership Network to start a church, and shortly thereafter, Leadership Network shut down the Young Leaders Network. (Also, a notorious pastor in Seattle was asked to leave the group.) The “Group of 20” became the “Terra Nova Project,” before ultimately settling on the name, Emergent Village. Ecclesia Church in Houston hosted a conference on the Bible in postmodern society – it was a success, and the momentum increased. Then came book deals and the Emergent Convention, so that by 2005, the movement was at its peak.
Guests in this episode include Dwight Friesen, Doug Pagitt, Brian McLaren, Brad Smith, Lilly Lewin, Mark Scandrette, Chris Seay, Michael Toy, and Mark Oestreicher.
Music by The Cobalt Season (compliments of Ryan Sharp), Solomon’s Porch (compliments of Ben Johnson), Ecclesia and The Voice Bible thanks to Chris Seay.
Emerged is a crowdfunded project. If you join, you’ll have access to extra material, ad-free episodes, private livestreams with the hosts and guests, and an array of gifts at various levels of partnership. Learn more and join at EmergedPodcast.com.