Argentina - The next post

During the past few days I've attended a number of bible studies, prayer meetings and in depth discussions with clergy and lay people, and preached at a mid week service in the Cathedral.

 

Much of the discussion has been around our diocesan vision set within the local and national context.  We focused on church growth, the 'Salt and Light' strategy and how each of us within our own contexts can make Christ known to those with whom we have little contact.  Not surprisingly there are differences in context and resources available.  The Anglican Church in Argentina is small in resources compared to ourselves, but rich in opportunities and commitment to the Gospel and God's Mission.  There are - however -similarities and therein lie the opportunities for us to learn from each other and share knowledge, wisdom and understanding, which will strengthen the diocesan link.

I especially enjoyed a deep conversation with Maria from Devoto whom I met in the Cathedral. We discussed the ordination of women to the episcopate and priesthood.  I was particularly challenged by her theological, psychological  and contextual arguments - as she was by mine - and we are hoping to pursue this again at the Synod this weekend where she will also be my interpreter.  The Christians I've met here listen intently, with gracious integrity and a real depth of spirituality and prayerfulness.  They appear to assimilate and process new ideas and concepts, which is what Maria wanted to do in preparation for round two of our debate, but they aren't afraid to challenge.  They are a people that enjoy talking especially over meals,  and therefore also enjoy lively debate and argument.  But in doing so there is a real sense of mutual respect and acceptance of other points of view even when they don't agree. They aren't afraid to express their faith in public and be open with others about how Christ has impacted on, and changed their lives. They have a lively faith, a deep conviction and trust in God and this is expressed in their worship and liturgy which has elements of tradition and charismatic depending where you are.

I attended a very charismatic prayer meeting in Devoto which lasted two hours, not unusual in some churchs here.  There was prayer for healing and a time of worship.  It all seemed natural, balanced and entirely appropriate.   What struck me most was that people arrived with a deep hope and anticipation that the Holy Spirit was at work and could change, transform and heal lives.  We were clearly caught up in something that was deeply profound and of God.

Yesterday was a bank holiday in Argentina - 'Workers Day' - so the numbers attending the mid week prayer meeting and worship were smaller than usual.  However, it was an international meeting with people from England (us), Columbia, China, Argentina and Spain.  The meeting was open to anyone who wanted to walk in from the street and they received a genuine and warm welcome.  I had a fascinating conversation with a Pastor from an evangelical church in a difficult urban area of Buenos Aires where drugs, crime and violence were rife.  He related stories of having been shot at, and on one occasion having a gun pointed at his head and the trigger pulled, as though simulating a game of 'Russian Roulette'.  In spite of all this, he is committed to serving the poor and disadvantaged of that community even at the risk of his own safety. I was impressed by his commitment and faith and perhaps even partly ashamed that in many respects mine  isn't as deeply challenged as I'd like to think.  The Pastor also said he had a personal prophecy for me and prayed over me, as have a number of people here, but that is a story and comment for another occasion.

The Pastors story reminded me that this is a beautiful country full of resources, but not without its challenges and difficulties.  Things that we might expect to do without any problem - such as being able to travel safely in a taxi - can't be taken for granted here, and I've been grateful for the support, guidance and generosity we've received during the past week.

Jane and Michael have been doing their own thing today, with Mike now being in Lomas and Jane accompanying Sylvia (the Bishop's Wife) to a couple of meetings.

The link is clearly important to people here and I've been exploring one or two ways we might strengthen this, especially by inviting young people to take part in visits.  My trip here has been very worthwhile in exploring this, but most importantly it has been a profound spiritual experience and journey which, like Maria, I need to process on my return next week.

I'm looking forward to preaching at the Synod service on Sunday and addressing them later the same afternoon before moving back to Devoto to preach at a service.   I know this will be two hours long but will, in the Spirit of God and fellowship with fellow brothers and sisters in Christ, pass quickly indeed as I'm sure our last few days here will.