Intentional Time to Mutually
Discern
As a prophetic people, we are invited into an intentional time to mutually discern who is called to be the next prophet-president for Community of Christ. This is also an important opportunity to listen deeply to the movements of the Holy Spirit and pay close attention to the worldwide context(s) of the church in which future leaders will serve.
Discernment Process
The rhythm of discernment practice will involve a pray step one month followed by a share step the next month. This gives the church opportunity to engage in meaningful reflection personally and collectively, and then to share responses with the First Presidency.
Awaken to New Possibilities
september 2023
This is a time in the process to hold prayerfully all that we have been gathering through prayer, reflection, and sharing together. Considering what you have heard and discovered through discernment so far:
What kind of leadership (qualities, style, competencies, gifts, skills) is needed to respond to God’s call for the worldwide church at this time and into the future?
october 2023
What kind of leadership (qualities, style, competencies, gifts, skills) is needed to respond to God’s call for the worldwide church at this time and into the future?
At this point in the process, there may be individuals you begin to hold prayerfully who demonstrate the kind of leadership you sense or hear described. You are encouraged to share these names with the Council of Twelve Apostles but ask you to refrain from sharing the names of specific people in other settings.
We know that sometimes even our best intentions of considering specific persons can impact other’s lives and families as we all hold the weight of this leadership role in the life of the church.
As we mutually discern both the kind of leadership and specific persons who come to mind, we want to be mindful of the type of listening and sharing environment we are creating in person and online, where we commit to holding one another in Christ like love and mutual respect.
Share around the table with family and friends. Share in sacred community in person and online. As you share, also listen deeply to what others are saying and imagining. Our prayerful sharing with one another will continue to shape our collective discernment and sense of God’s call.
Opportunities to share will be available in October.