Spirit Alive is a weekly blog that looks at different aspects of mission and ministry throughout the Oregon-Idaho Annual Conference and beyond.

January 12, 2016

Signs of Life:

Trinity United Methodist Church (Eugene):

Messy Church

In Paul’s many letters, we learn that the Early Christians didn’t always have it all together. In fact, even though the spirit clearly worked through them, things could be chaotic, confusing…and messy. Through it all, they learned the meaning of love, patience, kindness…fruit of the spirit…and in the process, they were still able to practice what it meant to be a community of believers.

From our own experience, we know that life doesn’t always go according to plan. Sometimes things don’t work out smoothly. Often times we aren’t in control of what’s going on. Sometimes life gets messy. But we don’t have to have it all together in order to be together. The Messy Church movement takes this to heart by inviting people, especially young families, to experience church in a different way.  

Look at what I learned….

 
Watch a video about Messy Church in Eugene.

If you'd like to learn more about Messy Church at Trinity UMC in Eugene, you can contact Kristyn Stephens, the Messy Church Coordinator, or Rev. Roberta Egli, Senior Pastor, at eugenetrinity@yahoo.com or visit them on the web at trinityumceugene.org.

After viewing the video consider these questions:

• Does your congregation have easy, accessible ways for young families to gather and feel at home in the church?
• How does your congregation acknowledge the realities and complexities that people face on a daily basis?

Blessings on your journey,

Lowell

Spirit Alive is a weekly blog and email by Rev. Lowell Greathouse, Mission and Ministry Coordinator for the Oregon-Idaho Annual Conference. It seeks out where the spirit is alive in our congregations and communities. Check out past editions, or subscribe to the email list.