Eade’s Bedes
July 2009
Godspel
There is a word that terrifies most Episcopalians: Evangelism!
We think it means standing on street corners with bible in hand demanding repentance and conversion. Well, that is certainly a type of evangelism, but by no means is it the only way. There are many ways to invite people to take “Just a Closer Walk with Thee.”
Well, the news is out now that our congregation’s lowest score in the Natural Church Development survey was “Need-oriented Evangelism.” We will have to translate the ideas for many of us to terms that are more approachable. Still it comes as no surprise that we aren’t doing an effective job of inviting people. We are going to change that, but have no fear! The NCD team will be recommending several things which will work and that we can all easily do. As we get ready, it helps to cover the meaning of terms and concepts.
‘Godspel” is not only the name of a wonderfully effective musical; it is actually the Old English word derived from the Greek ‘Euangelion.’ Both became the modern word ‘Gospel’ and mean ‘Good News!’ The Gospels tell the Good News and those who are gifted to tell it are therefore termed evangelists. Evangelism is sharing the glad tidings that Jesus Christ was crucified for our sins, overcame death and the grave and ascended into heaven to prepare a place for those who believe in him.
There is also a linguistic root in common between angel and evangelist – both come from the ancient word for ‘messenger.’
St. Paul claimed the evangelism is a gift of the Holy Spirit awarded to a certain few, but the Church as the Body of Christ in the world has that duty as a whole. To evangelize is the invite and welcome people into the community of God. The general responsibly is shared by the community, and we will discern ways to help others see St. Martin’s as a place where they are welcome in the name of God. You may be surprised how easy it is when we let it happen.
Maybe evangelism isn’t such a scary word after all. But as I mentioned in a sermon in June, perhaps it will be easier to take if we consider it “planting seeds!”
More to come.
But do pray for the work of the NCD Health Committee and the revival of our parish.
