Rekindle.
Rekindle.
Does this word speak to you?
What does it bring to your mind’s eye?
Does it signify flickering hope?
Possible renewal?
After disillusionment and brokenness, embers of a once vibrant fire still glow.
After being buried by busyness and common consumer pursuits, [life, love, ?] can be rekindled.
An ancient poet writes:
“A bruised reed will not be broken;
a smoldering wick will not be snuffed out.”
A 19th-century songwriter pens:
“Down in the human heart, crushed by the tempter,
feelings lie buried that grace can restore.
Touched by a loving heart, wakened by kindness,
chords that are broken will vibrate once more.”
(Fanny J. Crosby)
This is an invitation to rekindle. Rekindle hope. Rekindle belonging. Rekindle conversations. Rekindle compassion. Rekindle life.
I am personally on this rekindling journey. And I invite you to come along.
United Methodists have asked me to explore the possibilities of a faith community on the Near Eastside. There are no foregone conclusions. No layers of red tape. No one telling us what this should be like. As a Near Eastside neighbor, clergy and consultant, I am exploring the need, desire, feasibility and sustainability of a new, local faith community.
What might an emergent faith community in a 1911 Near Eastside church facility be like? What might compel you to check it out? Or, become involved in forming a local space of belonging, inclusion, compassion and justice-bearing—something unlike typical church?
I’m sincerely interested in your thoughts and ideas about this. I invite you to complete a survey that will provide valuable input on this exploration. No hooks, gimmicks, or commitments.
John Franklin Hay