Thoughts On Discernment ...

Discernment is something we often talk about but easily misunderstand. The word isn't Christian jargon for decision-making.
Discernment considers not only THE decision but HOW the decision is made. It takes into account the following:

1.      The ways we behave around the process
2.      How we cooperate with others involved
3.       The information we gather (or prefer to ignore)
4.      Our personal (and congregational) history

Discernment is a process.

Almost always, there is a decision that must be made. There is no choice. Something must be done. Discernment is a choice to focus on the process and the decision. And that requires time and intention. As a community, it requires each of us. As we continue our discernment about what to do with Heigham House, here are things we need to commit to:

• Open ourselves to God's work in the process. If we have already decided for ourselves, we are closing ourselves off from what the community and the Holy Spirit might be doing. Opening ourselves means relinquishing our priorities and opinions and letting God lead.
• Open ourselves to learning. When we hear from all perspectives and learn about all possible options and their costs/benefits, we celebrate the richness of our options and have greater peace about the outcome. Soon, you will receive a link to all the information gathered so far about the house. You will receive updates as the teams collect more information. Please commit to staying informed.
• Choose to love over fear, distrust, and anxiety. For some of us, it's hard to live in the limbo of a decision. For others, it's hard to trust that others are acting transparently and with the same good intentions we have. Some just want it to be over; thank you very much. Wherever you fall, this is an excellent opportunity for self-reflection and growth – the beauty of discernment!  

 
Please hear me when I say this:
In the Heigham House decision, my only non-negotiable commitment is our shared spiritual growth. 


Yes, I have an opinion on what is best, and you've heard it because I'm your Rector. But the decision is the congregation's, not mine. The spiritual growth of each member of our community is my concern. And this kind of process is exactly where growth happens.  If you observe yourself acting up, take time to evaluate what is going on inside.

We love to discuss growing the church in numbers, but big congregational decisions are also crucial for our spiritual growth. 
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As Christians, love is at the heart of our discernment. If we love one another (even those we disagree with), we'll not only get the decision made; we'll be a stronger and more faithful community. That's the real goal!


-- Pastor Rebecca