Two Churches, Two Struggles, One Vision of Faith

We invite you to share with your congregation the following story from Dan Kehler, of Altona Bergthaler Mennonite Church, participant of a Learning Tour to Colombia. It should take no more than two minutes to read aloud. You might also wish to include the story in your church newsletter.

Colombia: Two Churches, Two Struggles, One Vision of Faith

Recently, I was blessed by the opportunity to visit Colombia. Part of the purpose of this trip was to visit our sister congregation in Madrid. When we arrived at the church, we were expecting to stay the night in the homes of the members, but they couldn’t find enough places for our delegation of two couples and four singles. Instead, the hospitality that was extended to us was the upper room over the new Sunday School. They had collected beds and bedding from members in the congregation and brought them to the church and set up a makeshift co-ed dormitory for eight people. I was scared to ask how they got all the beds to the church since no one in the congregation had a truck.

The space was small, smaller than most of our living rooms. But it was offered in love, and decorated with fresh flowers. The hospitality included a large basket of fresh fruit and an assortment of Colombian treats and snacks. Instead of being immediately grateful, I was uncomfortable with the tight quarters and one bathroom with only a curtain to provide privacy. But as I thought about the situation, I was overwhelmed with the display. Eight people in Madrid were sleeping on the floor that night so that we could sleep in beds. Our congregation has enough extra rooms and beds to host a group of people twice the size of their congregation.

What are we missing in our congregation by insisting on our privacy and existing in large homes with much space to be individuals? There are many differences between our congregations but there is one similarity that we share that draws us together across the possible social, economic, cultural and contextual barriers. What draws us together is our desire to be part of the Kingdom of God and our struggle to be faithful witnesses in the communities where we are located. We are called to bring the light of the world, the bread of life and the love of Jesus to a hurting world.

This story is part of Equipping #75 April 2007