In the ‘cancel culture’ we live in, Christians are still called to seek loving interpersonal conflict and reconciliation, which is central to Mennonite practice. Melissa share’s here how being given a vision for reconciliation at PMC inspired her to commit to the Mennonite tradition. She anchored her thoughts in the reading of Colossians 3:1-17.

Melissa first visited PMC with a desire to think more about bi-vocational ministry, the topic of her thesis. She shares about an issue that came up that almost sent her quietly away. Our congregation benefits today from her ability to work that issue through — as she currently serves as Minister of Children and Youth.

Working this challenge through with members of the congregation provided Melissa with a vision for reconciliation. Truly living in unity requires that we sometimes address occasions where we fall short in our relationships. It means entering into the deeply uncomfortable space of acknowledging brokenness in others and in ourselves, with grace and with the ultimate desire to restore unity.

Food for thought:

1. Are there justice issues that you’re so passionate about that you can have a hard time thinking about being loving when discussing them with someone who has different views?
2. Share an experience of reconciliation you’ve had…

Hear the audio as Melissa shares these thoughts, as well as some radical stories of forgiveness.

download here