Comments for Myths of postmodernity and the Emergent Church at http://pres-outlook.net , comment 1 to 2 out of 2 comments http://pres-outlook.net Sat, 04 Jul 2009 15:19:04 +0100 FeedCreator 1.7.3 http://pres-outlook.net/opinion/guest-commentary/4209-myths-of-postmodernity-and-the-emergent-church.html#comment-3121 As always a well put together look at what it is to be postmodern. It is not a threat to being Presbyterian but an outlook that needs to be addressed and not pushed under the rug or labeled as 'wackos'. I will definately link this article for others to see a concise point of view on the emerging church. Thanks Bruce! - Sean Chow Mon, 12 Mar 2007 12:00:00 +0100 http://pres-outlook.net/opinion/guest-commentary/4209-myths-of-postmodernity-and-the-emergent-church.html#comment-3086 Thank you Bruce. You did create a more than a moment of pause, challenge and relief. Count your spirit full. I was wondering if you would consider expanding the myth/reality exploration? What is the myth of postmodern understanding of authority and leadership and what is reality? What is the myth of postmodern church organizational structure of a local church on the journey toward truth and what is reality? So glad to see your thoughts on this subject. Blessings!!! <i>Marty, Let me take a quick stab at this, same disclaimers apply ;-) MYTH - Postmodern Leadership and Structure are wishy-washy, non-strategic, shallow, wise-cracking, disrespectful, ego-maniacal, fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants pastor wannabes. REALITY - Yes and no. But . . . any of the above descriptors are not exclusive to postmodern or emergent leadership: ordained or not. In fact, in my experience, the disconnect between pastoral training and reality of cultural shifts have only made churches/clergy even more so. Still, if I had to propose a better posture of pastoral/church leadership and authority, I think effective leadership and respected authority lies in pastoral leadership and/or team leadership that embodies many of characteristics described in the other myth/realties that I proposed in the original article. If I had to give some of the more important characteristics I would propose the following. 1) Leadership should be grounded in Christ. The emergent experience is very much about bringing everyone's 'centeredness' to the table to more realistically experience the fullness of the body of Christ. 2) Leadership should be respectful. This is the place that lives between tolerating and accepting what others believe. Toleration can lead to condescension and not everyhting should be accepted, but respect encourages conversations and dialogue. 3) Leadership should live into and out of transformation. If leadership is not able to engage in transformative interaction that is not just lip-service but actually results in transformation of the leadership then how can we expect to help others do the same? 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10) Leadership should understand and embrace their context. Embracing the context in which a community lives and serves does not mean that everything within that context is acceptable. It does mean that leadership understands the nuances and complexities that exist within the context so they are better prepared to help people navigate life and faith. Hope that helps! Bruce</i> - Martin Shelton-Jenck Mon, 05 Mar 2007 12:00:00 +0100