Depart from evil, and do good; so you shall abide forever. For the Lord loves justice; he will not forsake his faithful ones. The righteous shall be kept safe forever, but the children of the wicked shall be cut off.

[Excerpted from “Looking Back, Moving Forward” by Peter Lonsdale, Australia Herald 2025, Volume 1]

Like me you may wonder about the future of our faith community, indeed the future of many mainstream churches. The sale of assets and closure of congregations seems to dominate our focus at times. I sometimes hear commentary suggesting today’s broader community and younger generations have no interest in being part of a faith community or in spiritual matters. I respectfully disagree. I see many evidences around me of the search for meaning, for a connection to community and to discover a sense of purpose. It does, however, seem evident many folks are choosing not to live out that quest in an organized church setting. It begs the question, do we truly focus on what matters most in our faith community?

Throughout history the central invitation of the Christian faith has been to live in sacred relationship with God and one another. Jesus invited his followers to be one with Him and the Father, “even as the Father and I are one”. I am increasing persuaded our name, Community of Christ, points the way. We are invited into sacred relationships that bring purpose, meaning, and blessing. While there are demands on any organization to deal with structure and function, these can distract us if we are not careful. Our primary focus should always be on establishing the type of sacred relationships lived out by Jesus.

In my journey of discipleship, relationships have been key. Experiences in my family, at youth gatherings, conferences, in congregations, reunions, and leadership camps helped me form lifelong friendships. They also provided opportunities to connect with God personally, sensing his love for me and all people. That sense of call sustains me still in my ministry today.

As I reflect on our experiences in Perth, Western Australia, I see God at work in similar ways, drawing people together in sacred relationship. For me and others involved, our Food Pantry ministry is sacred. Some patrons have been coming for years, cherishing the connections made. Others simply come to receive the food hampers. All are welcome, and no one is refused. Some patrons have chosen to attend our congregational worships on a regular basis in response to the acceptance and warmth they feel.

Our Sunday worship and congregational life are sacred. We support each other in prayer, testimony, and servant ministry. Our annual Easter camp is sacred community and an important annual event for many. Our connection to other denominations supporting the work of school chaplains is sacred too. The 65-voice WA Show Choir rents our chapel each week. It is a sacred community where many lasting connections are being made.

Please understand, the future is still uncertain for us too. However, in all these ministries and sacred connections I get a glimpse of how our faith community is invited to move forward. Moving forward, the activities of our congregational life may change, but building sacred relationships remains key to our witness.

Prayer Phrase

“We love because God first loved us” (1 John 4:19).

Sea of Light

Quiet and center yourself. Ask for God’s healing and guidance as you enter this time of prayerful presence. Close your eyes, breathing deeply and calmly. Imagine that you are floating in a beautiful sea of light that rises and falls with each cycle of your breath. The golden light of this sea buoys you up, so you float effortlessly. Waves of light carry and wash over you, bringing wholeness and peace. Rest in the sea of God’s love, then offer a prayer of gratitude.

Today’s Prayer for Peace

Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.