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What special things did you do this summer? I had the privilege of attending the eighth quadrennial conference of the International Congregational Fellowship in Corfu, Greece! The event was hosted by the Greek Evangelical Churches, the theme was “Running the Race,” and I had a wonderful time. I learned a lot, and in my space this month, I want to tell you what I learned -- about the people, the purpose and the work of ICF – along with some very good news!

First, the people. Did you know that you have “congregational” brothers and sisters all over the world? While there, we heard regional reports from associations, unions, fellowships and federations from North, Central and South America, Africa and Asia, Australia and the Pacific Islands, Northern and Central Europe, and the United Kingdom. The reach and extent of the ties that bind us are truly amazing!

Next, the purpose of ICF. One of the highlights of the business meeting was the ratification of a new Constitution, an effort begun 8 years ago. Among the newly voted purposes for which the Fellowship is established are: “To encourage fellowship and mutual counsel among Congregationalists worldwide; To encourage all Congregationalists… in their work of proclaiming the Christian gospel and engaging in the work of God’s mission; To raise awareness of the distinctive values of Congregationalism throughout the wider Christian family; To foster and encourage stronger relationships between existing Congregational churches, associations and other Congregational bodies; To promote theological education and research, especially where this is related to Congregational principles; and To express solidarity with all people in upholding justice, respect for human life, peace and the integrity of creation.”

Finally, the work. As its primary calling, the International Congregational Fellowship serves as a reminder that the ties that bind us reach around the world. It can also serve as a connector of persons, churches and regional fellowships committed to being “salt and light” in Congregational ways. But most of all, it can be a way of being and working together -- as the Lord’s free people -- to help the coming, and the building, of God’s kingdom. For me, this is its greatest challenge, hope and opportunity.

Now, for the good news! The next quadrennial conference, to be held in the summer of 2009, will be held in Milwaukee, Wisconsin! Our opportunity is a great one. And my great hope is that those of us in the NA office, in all our Wisconsin churches, and all the churches of our National Association will help to make this opportunity a blessed and special occasion!

P. S. From the ICF Conference, I traveled on with Christo Kulichev to Bulgaria and the Union of Evangelical Congregational Christian Churches. I’ll write about that… next month!
 

Rev. John Carson, Associate Executive Secretary