DC Cohort

Cohort gathering TONIGHT - in a NEW PLACE

2011-10-11T08:56:00.002-04:00

The DC cohort is on the move - tonight - October 11, 2011 - we will gather at Nando's Peri Peri in Chinatown at 7:30pm. Todd Thomas is leading us tonight in a conversation on writing - to hear and share who's writing what, what tools folks are using, how to engage social media effectively in our ministries, and more.

Jason and I hope you will join us!

Nando Peri Peri is located at 819 - 7th Street WDC - the closest metro stop is Gallery Place/Chinatown on the red and yellow/green lines.

See you tonight!

Blessings, J & S

Tuesday Sept 13 - At the Front Page

2011-09-12T15:04:00.004-04:00

Hi all, we are gathering at the Front page on Tuesday September 13 at 7:30pm. Jason Mack will lead a discussion on " Belonging, ownership and membership". Please let me know if you'll be there so I can let them know how many we will be.

The Front Page is located a Dupont Circle near the south entrance of the metro.

Hope to you to morrow ay 7:30pm!

ALSO - a Social Media Bootcamp will taking place at Wesley Theological Seminary November 12. Social Media Bootcamp is produced and led by JOPA productions. To register go to http://socialphonics.com/?ee=16

Blessings,

Sara and Jason.

August 9, 2011 Are you broken? burned out?

2011-08-04T21:05:00.005-04:00

Join us Tuesday night August 9, 2011 at the Front Page in Dupont Circle for a discussion led by Amy Moffitt. We will look at the question, " If you are a broken and hurting church leader, how do you keep moving through this space while doing minimal damage to your community?" Bring your stories and questions; good and bad and ugly to the table. We'll un-pack them there. Hopefully, we'll leave with some insights and a bit of fellowship.

7:30pm The Front Page. We might sit outside if the weather is nice enough.

Please let Sara Sheppard know if you are coming so we can get a large enough table. ssheppard@wesleyseminary.edu

The Front Page is located across the street from the dupont circle metro.

Hope to see you there!

Sara and Jason

Wildgoose rap up and Jesus dojo - tonight (7/12) at the Page

2011-07-12T09:02:00.003-04:00

Hi hey - sorry this is so late... The cohort will meet tonight July 12, 2011 at 7:30pm at the Front Page in Dupont Circle. Mike Croghan will engage us of tails of the wildgoose festival and if we have time we'll also hear about the book tour kick-off event that happened at Wesley for Mark Scandrettes new book, Practicing the Ways of Jesus.

Hope you can make it!

Blessings all,

Sara and Jason

June 14, 2011 - Todd Thomas presenting on faith and art

2011-06-13T14:52:00.004-04:00

Join us tomorrow night, June 14, 2011 at 7:30pm for a conversation about the intersection between faith and art. Todd Thomas from Church in Bethesda will lead the discussion. We will meet at the Front Page - please let Sara Sheppard know if you are coming.

The Front Page is located directly cross from the dupont circle metro station (near Krispy Kreme!)

Many thanks and see you tomorrow!

Blessings,

Sara and Jason

May 10, 2011 - The role of Belief in emergence church communities

2011-05-03T15:35:00.003-04:00

Hey DC folks! We will gather at the Front Page at Dupont Circle on Tuesday evening May 10th at 7:30pm - Mike Croghan will lead us in a discussion surrounding belief systems within emergence church communities. Do/should our communites have any kind of belief/creedal/doctrinal norms, either officially or de facto? If so (or not), how does that play out?

Join us for the conversation and a bite to eat.

7:30pm ; May 10th, 2011

The Front Page ( at the dupont circle metro)

Please let Sara Sheppard know if you are coming.

Easter Blessings! Sara and Jason

NO COHORT TONIGHT

2011-04-12T09:28:00.001-04:00

Hey all,

There is no DC Cohort tonight!

Join us next month as Mike Croghan leads us in a discussion of belief in the Emerging Church.

Stay tuned for more details.

Sincerely,

jason

March 2011 - Children and the Emerging Church

2011-02-28T09:15:00.002-05:00

We will gather at the Front Page next on Tuesday March 8, 2011 at 7:30pm. The topic will be children and the emerging church. How do the children of the church intersect with new kingdom building? What does children's ministry look like in an emerging church context? Please join us to discuss, debate and ask the questions.

Tuesday March 8, 2011 7:30pm

The Front Page at Dupont Circle Metro

Please let us know if you plan on attending by e-mailing Sara Sheppard.

Peace and grace as we move into the season of Lent.

Jason and Sara

Future of the Cohort

2011-02-04T15:19:00.002-05:00

What are your feelings about the DC Cohort? Do you want it to continue? What do you want from it?

Come and share your thoughts about the future of the DC Cohort, Tuesday Feb. 8th, 7:30 at the Front Pg. restaurant in Dupont Circle.

Let me know if you're coming so I can reserve enough seats.

Thanks,

Jason

jason@newleafchurch.org

Cohort Tuesday Night at the Front Pg.

2011-01-10T15:58:00.002-05:00

Please join us Tuesday the 11th at 7:30 at the Front. Pg. in Dupont Circle.

We will have a special guest, April Vega, to share with us her published findings on The Emerging Church, Amohoro in Africa and Globalization. It should be a fascinating conversation.

See you there,

jason

DC Cohort Tuesday the 11th, 7:30

2011-01-07T10:02:00.002-05:00

Please join us Tuesday the 11th at 7:30.

We will have a special guest, April Vega, to share with us her published findings on The Emerging Church, Amohoro in Africa and Globalization. It should be a fascinating conversation.

See you there,

jason

Mark Your Calendars for Next Tuesday!

2011-01-05T18:01:00.002-05:00

We will meet next Tuesday evening at 7:30 somewhere downtown to talk about something cool (possible guest speaker tba).

Stay tuned for more details (well really any details).

Jason

December 14th - at Busboys and Poets

2010-11-29T11:58:00.002-05:00

Hi gang, The new emerging christianity meet-up group is meeting the same time as we would normally meet in December AND Brian McLaren is their guest speaker. Jason and I thought it would be good to join 'em this time and engage with some folks who are not in our immediate circle.

Details are:

Where: Busboys and Poets on U street
When: December 14, 2010 - 6:30pm
Who: all ya'all!
URL: An Emerging Christianity Conversation in DC

Hope to see you there!

Peace,

Sara and Jason

November 9, 2010 - Recap EVTC

2010-11-08T08:33:00.003-05:00

We will gather tomorrow at the Front Page Restaurant in Dupont Circle (right across from the metro entrance nearest the Krispy Kreme) at 7:30pm. Amy Moffitt will lead us in a recap of the EV Theological Conversation that took place in Atlanta last week. Should be an interesting discussion!

Please zip me a note to let me know if you are planning on coming so I can get make a reservation and have enough seats.

Also, the DC cohort welcomes the Northern VA cohort into our little group and we praise God for the connection that has been made. We hope you will join us in the journey often (if not monthly!)

Join us! Tuesday November 9, 2010 at 7:30pm @ the Front Page.

Please rsvp to ssheppard@wesleyseminary.edu

Blessings!

Sara and Jason

DC Cohort gathering October 12, 2010

2010-10-11T13:37:00.002-04:00

Hi - - We will gather together tomorrow at the Front Page Restaurant at the Dupont Circle metro at 7:30pm October 12, 2010.

The topic: What are the next possible steps for Emergent Village? Come and be a part of the discussion that will look at where we have been and where we might go.

Please let em know if you are planning on being there so I can get a large enought table.

ssheppard@wesleyseminary.edu

Thanks! See you tomorrow.

Peace and grace, Sara and Jason

Cohort Cancelled for Sept 21

2010-09-21T18:22:00.001-04:00

Sorry for the short notice, but we need to cancel the cohort gathering tonight. Neither Jason or I can get there, BUT if YOU get there and want to share a pint - the more the merrier!

We'll regroup next month. Watch this space.

Peace and grace on an absolutely beautiful fall day.

God is Good!

Sara and Jason.

September 21, 2010 - Pete Rollins review

2010-08-26T09:33:00.005-04:00

Hope everyone has had a good summer! We will meet the THIRD Tuesday this month on September 21, 2010 at the Front Page at DuPont Circle.

Topic: a debrief on the class Pete Rollins taught at Wesley this summer on emerging theology and postmodern philosophy. Jason will lead us in the discussion. Several others from the cohort were also there so feel free to interject your gleanings as well.

Also coming up this month is Big Tent Christianity in Raleigh, NC. If you haven't signed up yet I think there is still room. This is taking place Sept 8 -9, 2010. Go here for more info. We might have some time to update on this event too in September.

Sooo... hope to see you at the Page on Sept 21 at 7:30pm. The Front Page is located on the redline at DuPont Circle.

Please let me know if you plan on coming. ssheppard@wesleyseminary.edu

Peace and grace,

Sara and Jason

DC Cohort to Meet Tuesday July 13th

2010-07-12T10:27:00.002-04:00

Sorry for the really late notice - - but we WILL be gathering tomorrow at the Front Page at 7:30pm. We have no plans - just come and enjoy each others company (and we can celebrate Kates big news!)

See you Tomorrow at the Page. The Front Page is located across the street from the metro entrance. All are Welcome! Please send me a note if you think you'll be able to come so I can get a big enough table. ssheppard@wesleyseminary.edu

Peace and grace,

Sara And Jason

June 8, 2010 DC Cohort Gathering

2010-05-24T13:51:00.002-04:00

Hope you all are enjoying these warmer temps and beautiful early summer days. The DC cohort will gather June 8, 2010 at the Front Page. The topic: "What's the future for the Emerging Church??" Bring your thoughts, questions and ponderings.

The Front Page Restuarant (across the street from the Dupont Circle Metro and Krispy Kream)

7:30pm

Please let me know if you'll be coming by Monday June 7. ssheppard@wesleyseminary.edu

Blessings,

Sara and Jason

DC Cohort Gathering May 11 at the Page - transFORM take away

2010-05-06T11:07:00.003-04:00

Hey! For our next gathering we will debrief on the Transform event that took place at Wesley Theological Seminary last weekend. It was a really great event from the worship to the speakers to the workshops and the fellowship. From what I've heard the time together was really appriciated by those who were there (all 300 of them!)

The Question is: What was your main take away from the event?? We are interested in hearing from all of you that were there and hope those of you who could not be there will also join us to bask in the collective wisdom of the group.

If you think you will be able to make it, please let me know ssheppard@wesleyseminary.edu so I can make the reservation.

Also, for those of you who were not able to be there the plenary sessions and some of the worship is available to view via ustream from http://www.theeuc.com/

Hope to see you at the Front Page on May 11th at 7:30pm

peace and grace,

Sara and Jason

April 2010 DC Cohort Gathering

2010-04-12T14:42:00.002-04:00

Greetings all! We have decided to NOT meet this month since Wesley Seminary is hosting the transFORM East Coast GAthering later this month - and several of our members are on the planning team.

Do join us April 30 - May 2 for the conference. It's shaping up to be a wonderful event. info, schedules and all that good stuff can be found at www.transformnetwork.org

Hope to see you at the end of the month!!

peace and grace,

Sara and Jason

March 9, 2010 Cohort Gathering at the Page!

2010-03-08T12:27:00.002-05:00

Hey folks - sorry this is late! We will be meeting tomorrow night at the Front Page at 7:30pm - same topics as last time... open mic.

We have some exciting things coming up right here in DC!

April 30 - May 2 East Coast Emerging Gathering and the launch of transFORM. This event will take place at Wesley Theological Seminary. The event is free - housing available at the Sleep Inn Shady Grove. The deadline is past to get the group rate, but they may still have rooms, so give them a call. They are outside of DC proper, but have a shuttle to the subway train that will bring you down to Tenley town and then you can either hop on the AU shuttle which will bring you next door, or we may be running shuttles. Info available here and updated regularly.

May 3 - Social Media Bootcamp with Doug Pagitt. This event will be held at Wesley seminary as well. to register please go to http://www.jopaproductions.com/events/bootcamp Registration is limited to 50. Cost is $95 and includes lunch. Bring your laptop and learn all you need to know about using social media to promote your church or intentionall community activities.

July 26 - 29 Theology in an Emerging Culture: God, Atheism, and the Church A summer term course at Wesley taught by Peter Rollins. You may audit the course (or take it for credit if you are working on a masters or Dmin program). Folks wanting to audit should download the summer registration form and send it with the registration fee as instructed. Registration opens March 22 for the summer term. Summer course and registration info here.

Hope to see you at the page on Tuesday night! If you have any questions about the above information contact Sara Sheppard. 202-885-8688

Peace and Grace!

Sara and Jason

Cohort Cancelled Feb 9

2010-02-09T12:55:00.003-05:00

Due to the weather we are canceling the cohort tonight. Stay safe everyone and be thankful we only receive record snow every ten or so years!

We will reconvene on March 9, 2010 surely the roads will be clear by then! :)

peace and grace,

Sara and Jason

Feb 9, 2010 Open Forum

2010-02-04T08:05:00.005-05:00

Greetings Folks! We will gather Tuesday February 9, 2010 at 7:30pm the Front Page for an Open Forum. Bring anything that's on your minds, new iphone apps, etc to share.

There are upcoming events locally that we want to make you aware of.

East Coast Gathering April 30- May 2, 2010 at Wesley Theological Seminary in DC info and RSVP available at http://www.transformnetwork.com/ This is a FREE event , but we ask that you RSVP so we have an idea of how many are coming. Plenary speakers include Brian McLaren, Pete Rollins, Kathy Escobar and Anthony Smith.

Also...

Pete Rollins will teach a summer term course at Wesley Theological Seminary July 26 - 29, 2010. The course is entitled, " Theology in an Emerging Culture: God, Atheism and the Church". Registration will begin after March 22. More info to follow.

Hope to see you at the Page on Tuesday! Please drop me a note at ssheppard@wesleyseminary.edu to let me know you are coming.

Peace and grace,

Sara and Jason

New Year! New Topic! Join us Tuesday January 12th

2010-01-08T10:39:00.004-05:00

Happy New Year everyone! We are very happy to host Keelan Downton as he discusses Open Source Theology on Tuesday January 12th at 7:30pm at the Front Page. When I asked him, "What's that?" he replied;

As a metaphor, 'open source' has more to offer the practice of Christian faith than 'blogs for all' and company in the dimly-lit corners where coffeeshops hide the one public outlet. In a presentation last fall, I argued that approaching theological reflection as a collective process may be the best way to encourage engagement with ancient tradition but that it only works when tradition is understood to include significant room for experimentation. I'd like to have a conversation that playfully explores four challenges that arise when we press that metaphor further:

a decompiler/hermeneutic challenge: do we have the tools to read the 'source' correctly and how could we verify that we have?
a coordination/coherence challenge: how can diverse people be organized in a way that values the contributions of each person and also makes progress on a shared project?
an assessment challange: how can we differentiate alpha theologies/practices from beta theologies/practices from theologies/practices that are mature enough to be 'release candidates'?
a responsiveness challange: when feedback for faith formation is imprecise and slow, how can communities be responsive to those the theology affects 'in real time'?

Come and engage the four challanges that Keelan is presenting. Who knows we may be on to something!!

The Front Page is located at Dupont Circle right across from the metro stop. We gather at 7:30pm and are usually winding up around 9:30pm. Join us for conversation andfellowship. Dinner is on your own.

Please let me know if you are planning on attending so I can make a proper reservation. ssheppard@wesleyseminary.edu

Peace and grace,

Sara and Jason

December 2009

2009-12-07T14:29:00.002-05:00

Advent Blessings! We have a slight change to this month's gathering. We will get together Tuesday December 15th instead of the usual 2nd Tuesday of the month. We will resume the regular schedule January 12, 2010

Join Us!! December 15th at the Front Page Restaurant at Dupont Circle at 7:30pm. We will have an "open mic night" so bring your ideas, theological quandries and such to the table. We'd also love to hear how you are celebrating Advent and what the new year might have in store for your communities.

So... until then - Feliz Navidad! See you next week at the Page.

Blessings,

Sara and Jason

C21 - Come hear about it November 10!

2009-11-06T17:43:00.002-05:00

Hello again - the DC cohort will gather next on November 10 at 7:30pm the Front Page Restaurant at Dupont Circle. The topic will be C21 - we have several from our group who attended and will give us the low down on the goings on there. From what I've heard it was an awe-inspiring event so you don't want to miss this!

Also, I want to let you know about the launch of a new network; transFORM : a missional community formation network. Check out the website - this network is hopeing to inspire and support folks who are / have planted new communities. The network will launch officially with an event at Wesley Theological Seminary April 30-May 1 at the East Coast Regional Gathering. Details on that event coming soon.

Hope we will see you at the Page on Tuesday - 7:30pm (NOTE NEW TIME)

peace and grace,

Sara and Jason

Next Cohort Gathering Tuesday October 13, 2009:: So much to talk about!

2009-09-27T18:41:00.000-04:00

Fall greetings! We have had quite a few weeks and it ain't over yet. Several of us journeyed to the Chicago area to sit at the feet of Jurgen Moltmann, author of many great books on systematic theology and brillant theologian. The Emerging Conversation was wonderful and we (speaking for myself) came back renewed and full. In two weeks another group of us will pilgrimage to Solomon's Porch in Minneapolis, MN to experience Christianity 21. If you can go and haven't made plans yet, you should try to do this.

Our gathering on the 13th will be a debrief of these two events. I hope you can join us. Please drop me an e-mail so I'll be able to get the proper size table. ssheppard@wesleyseminary.edu

The Front Page Restaurant
DuPont Circle
7pm

Peace and grace,

Sara and Jason

DC Cohort gathering Tuesday August 11, 2009 at the Page

2009-08-06T09:38:00.004-04:00

Summer Greetings!! We will meet in August on the 11th at the Front Page in Dupont Circle. Come share the fellowship and bring whatever is on your heart and we will address, question, deconstruct and reconstruct those thoughts, issues, or doctrines.

ALSO:

There are several gatherings coming up that we want you to know about.

Ideacamp - August 28-29, 2009

Mt. Olivet UMC, Arlington ,VA www.theideacamp.com

Focus for this event in issue of compassion and justice.

Emergant Conversation with Jurgen Moltmann - September 9-11, 2009

Chicago, IL Contact jopaproductions.com to register and for more information.

(Several of us from the DC Cohort wil be there - join us!)

Christianity 21 - 21 voices, 21 ideas, 21 minutes each

Good Samaritan UMC, Edina, MN http://www.good.com/

Contact jopa productions to register and for more information.

If you will be able to join us on Tuesday the 11th at the Front Page, please drop me a line.

ssheppard@wesleyseminary.edu

Thanks!

Sara and Jason

The Parables of Peter Rollins - Join Us Tuesday July 14

2009-07-01T15:49:00.003-04:00

Have you heard?? Pete Rollin's book of parables is out - finally!! The Orthodox Heretic: And Other Impossible Tales. This night we will be led by Mike Stavlund in a discussion of several of the parables -he and Jason will select them and copies of the selected ones will be provided - or feel free to bring the book with you.

Join us Tuesday July 14th at 7pm at the Front page to read, discuss and respond to these "new impossible tales" from Pete Rollins.

Let us know if you have any questions. Hope to see you there!

The Front Page is across the street from the Dupont Circle Metro station (and the Krispy Creme store... yummmmm).

blessings,

Sara and Jason

Re-Imaging Re-Duex : Join Us June 9th at the Front Page

2009-06-02T11:41:00.001-04:00

Greetings one and all. Hope you had as glorious a Pentecost Sunday as I did.

We will gather this coming Tuesday June 9th at the Front Page for a debreif on the re-imagining meeting for Emergent that happen here in DC the last week of April. Mike Stavlund will lead us on this journey.

So meet us at the Front Page at 7pm on Tuesday June 9th for burgers and beer and some good conversation (and a pretty neat community I might add).

The Front Page is located directly across from the Dupont Circle metro stop.

Kindly drop me a line and let me know you are coming so I can get a big enough table. ssheppard@wesleyseminary.edu

Thanks muchly.

peace,

Sara and Jason

As the Village Turns... or something like that - Tuesday May 12

2009-05-07T14:01:00.005-04:00

As many of you know, Emergent Village has been in a place of discernment over the last 6 or so months. A group of emerging leaders met here in DC a couple weeks ago to discuss, discern, dream and try to make sense out things. Our own Mike Stavlund was among the organizers.

On Tuesday May 12 we will gather at the Front Page in Dupont Circle to continue the current conversation and to hear about the conversation that took place a few weeks ago. This is a dynamic time in the life and times of the Emergent Village and like a village, each of us as a part to play in its future.

Amy Moffitt will be with us to debrief on the gathering that took place in April. You can read more about Emergent Village here.

Please join us!

Tuesday May 12 at 7pm at the Front Page in Dupont Circle.

Also - it would be great if you could let me know if you plan on coming so I can make sure to have a big enough table. Many thanks! ssheppard@wesleyseminary.edu

peace and grace,

Sara

Post Emergent gathering Sunday lunch

2009-04-24T13:58:00.002-04:00

Most of you likely know about the Emergent gathering that is happening this Saturday to determine the future greatness of Emergent. But maybe you don't know about the post-gathering-fiesta at Guapos in Bethesda on Sunday (4/26) at 1pm. Many folks from the gathering will be there to connect, relax, and let us know what strategy Emergent has decided for taking over the world! We wouldn't want the DC Cohort to miss out on that so consider yourself invited!

RSVP to jason, jason@collegeparkchurchplant.com.

grace,
j

April 14th Gathering being led by Kate Murray

2009-04-08T16:34:00.000-04:00

So what exactly happened on the cross? What happened on Good Friday? On Easter Sunday?
Some say Jesus took our place, paid the price, and redeemed us in the eyes of an angry God. Others say he cured humanity of a great illness, the sickness of sin. Still others aren't sure.

Join us April 14th at the Front Page at 7pm as we discuss one of the most debated and discussed topics in Christianity - what happened on the cross and the various atonement theories. What’s helpful for understanding Jesus’ death and resurrection and what isn’t so helpful, possibly even detrimental to our faith.

Thanks to Kate Murray for leading the discussion this month. If you have a topic, book idea, burning question or even something slightly heretical that you'd like to take the lead on, let us know.

The Front Page
at Dupont Circle metro
7pm

See you there!

Jason and Sara

March 10 - Creeds; What are they good for?

2009-03-03T20:13:00.002-05:00

Ever wonder why we have creeds, what purpose they play and why they haven't been updated in a while?? Join the DC Cohort Tuesday March 10 at the Front Page in Dupont Circle as we look at the internal and external meanings of the creeds and if they still have use in today's church. Are there other dogmas or tools out there we could use instead? Ryan Page will lead us in the discussion.

The Front Page Restuarant

at Dupont Circle

7pm

Tuesday March 10

See you there!

Sara and Jason

Next Gathering February 10

2009-02-07T18:01:00.003-05:00

Hey gang - two things : 1) We will gather Tuesday Feb 10 at 7pm at the Front Page. 2) The suggestion was made last time that we find some space to do other things as a community than just have dinner once a month and talk to each other. We are planning a joint Ash Wednesday Service (location TBD) and hopefully this will be discussed along with the topic below on the 10th. Also we kicked around serving at a homeless shelter, or other equally wonderful ways to help those who have less. If you have suggestions on ways to do this, please send them my way ssheppard@wesleyseminary.edu and I'll compile them and send them on to Todd. We are also thinking about a picnic this summer in Rock Creek Park - maybe something that could include everyone from Restless Church??

So for Tuesday : The buzz on the cohort leader email has been about the tension between staying connected to a “traditional” church while also experimenting with Emergent. We are wondering how you all would respond to this question. To that point, I am including one of the latest posts for your reflection:

"Everyone's points have been helpful and very contextual (I've been burned before too)!

I'd say two interpenetrating principles lead me on this one:
A. Invention requires an artificial sense of objectivity- so to leave a community, self-differentiate, and then to focus on an alternative shaped community is crucial to any new vision being born.
B. But to love the greater whole requires an artificial sense of subjectivity- to belong to the church's destined transformation: In this case we are better for seeing ourselves as part of a larger whole, and not "othering" all the other/prior/disproven forms.

So as a presbyterian I'm better for to (B) acknowledging that we're part of larger arch of history, bigger than the "protestant reformation- with our solas, points, or marks of the true church". And as an emergent (B) I'm better for acknowledging that the $30k that is coming into our budget from the PC(USA) this year is material connection to all those old ladies in the presbyterian pews-- proof that we are more connected than I'd often assume. Yet as an emergent (A) I have to let go of Presbyterian forms and cliques long enought to be open to embracing what is taking shape organically in my neighborhood. And as a presbyterian (A) my healthiest posture includes calling all of my practices/confessions into question toward what they are being re-formed into.

At the edge/end of certitude lies this challenge: "hold to forms/particularities loosely without letting go of the poetics of the particular".

(You might also note that I use "artificial sense"- I think that the subjective/objective divide is a construct, but unavoidable. So it befits the church to use these categories in a more intentional, imagaintive, de/constructive way, instead of a place of pride/martyrdom/vigilantyism. The "remnant" language, the "protestant reformation" language, the "true church" language- they all require objective or subjective certainty- and they all fade in the face of new-creation-repentance-spirit-death-birth...)

All that said, I think... too many people stay at a particular church because of a narrow view of kingdom loyalty, and too many leave because of a shallow view of participation. Leave, stay, go start, quit... but do it all as a step into kingdom imagination, into deep practice. Anything you run from will end up sneaking into your next place on the coattails of your ideals."

So give this some thought. See you on the 10th!

Sara and Jason

January 13: Emerging Church 101

2009-01-07T19:35:00.002-05:00

Ever wonder what this thing called The Emerging Church is?? Who's doing it and what they are doing?? Join us on Tuesday night January 13 at 7pm to hear more. Jason Mack will give a basic description of the emerging church movement and then we'll entertain any questions and try to debunk the myths.

We meet at the Front Page resturant at Dupont Circle directly across from the metro.

so - - see you at 7pm at the Front Page Tuesday January 13th.

(The weather peeps are calling for some "wintery weather " Tuesday so check back here before you come. If we need to postpone I'll post it here)

Peace and Grace,

Sara and Jason

December gathering - The Great Emergence

2008-12-04T12:34:00.004-05:00

For December we will gather at the Front Page to discuss Phyliss Tickle's fab new book, The Great Emergence. Seems appropriate for Advent, don't you think?? Jason will lead the discussion and we'd love to hear from anyone lucky enough to get to Memphis the weekend before for the conference.

DETAILS:

December 9, 2008
7:00pm
The Front Page at Dupont Circle

Also:

Call to the River Retreat January 8 -10, 2009

Join us for a retreat to explore call; where you began and where God is calling you now. Marjory Bankson, formerly of Faith at Work and Rev. Rod Miller with lead us through the river and into transformational community.

We will gather at Manidokan Reteat Center near Harpers Ferry, WV beginning at 5pm Thursday until 12 noon Saturday for a retreat of reflection and sharing. Cost is $150.00 for meals and lodging. Some scholarships re available. For more information and to register click here.

Hope everyone's holiday is safe.

peace and grace,

Sara and Jason

November 11 - Pete Rollins lowdown

2008-11-10T12:24:00.003-05:00

Hey - We will meet at 7pm at the Front Page Resturant on Dupont Circle in Tuesday November 11 to get the low down on the Emergent Mid Atlantic gather that took place over the weekend in Philly. Yours truly was not able to go, but I'm hoping that those of you who did (hint, hint) would be willing to give us and update of what happened, what was said, etc.

There are other activities of interest happening over the coming months. The first is an Advent reflection happening at Wesley Theological Seminary by Lauren Winner, author of Girl Meets God and Mudhouse Sabbath. Lauren is professor of Christian Spirituality at Duke Divinity School. The event will take place Friday December 5th from 10am - 3pm and is free of charge. We only ask that you RSVP with Sara Sheppard to reserve a spot. Please include your name, phone number, church affiliation and mailing address. This event is underwritten by the Lilly Endowment.

Join us Thursday January 8 -Saturday Janaury 10, 2009 for an exploration of call. Call to the River is a time for reflection and for looking forward; toward your call. What did it look/feel like in the beginning and what or where is it now? How has it changed and where has it led you??

We will gather at Manidoken Retreat Center near Harpers Ferry, WV. Cost is $150.00 for room and board. Register by going to http://www.calltotheriver.blogspot.com/ This event is co-sponsored by the Baltimore-Washington Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church, Faith at Work, Wesley Theological Seminary and Sacred Fire Coaching.

Hope to see you soon and one or all of these events.

peace and grace,

Sara and Jason

October 14, 2008; DC Cohort gathering: Are you ready for the election??

2008-10-13T16:01:00.003-04:00

The DC Cohort will meet TOMORROW Tuesday October 14th at 7pm at the Front Page. Jason Mack will lead us in a discussion about the politial times and the church. Seeing as the election for our next President: Commander and Chief is around the perverbial corner, we thought it would be good to flesh out what everyone is thinking about the state of things as it relates to the church.

Our next gathering will take place after the election so at that time we will really be able to take stock and talk about what the future might hold.
We hope to see each of you at the Page at 7pm TOMORROW night, Oct 14th.

(The Front Page is across the street from the Dupont Circle Metro. We are the motley crew with the large table in the corner)

peace and grace,

Sara and Jason

September 9 - Church Leadership and Governmental structures: How can we become more post-modern??

2008-08-20T10:54:00.004-04:00

Hey All!! We will gather next on Tuesday September 9 at the Front Page in Dupont Circle. We'll have a free-wheeling discussion of church leadership and government structures. Denominations? Hierarchies? Boards of elders? Pastors? To what extent are these cultural constructs, and how might these structures change as our culture becomes more and more postmodern? What forms might leadership take in tomorrow's emerging church?

Thanks to Crog for suggesting the topic! Write in if you have thoughts that you want to be included in the discussion.

Also coming this fall is Pete Rollins - speaker at the Emergent Mid-Atlantic gathering

November 7-8 in Philadelphia, PA

Registration and info at http://www.emergentmidatlantic.com/

See you 9/9 at 7pm at the Front Page!

peace and grace,

Sara 'n Jason

Roadshow a hit! Next DC Cohort gathering August 12 7pm

2008-08-07T10:13:00.004-04:00

Hi all - we had a bunch of fun at the Church Basement Roadshow Thursday evening July 31. A really "hooten-nanny"! Come and hear about the event and reflections from those who were there. There is also an interesting post at the Las Vegas Cohort's blog "The depressing art of ru(i)nning a church" that could be a good jumping point off point for discussion as well.

So come on out - The Front Page Restaurant at the Dupont Metro

August 12, 2008
7pm

Blessings,

Sara and Jason

DC Cohort Updates

2008-07-17T14:30:00.006-04:00

Two Weeks until the Road Show! July 31
Volunteers needed for set-up and tear down
Next cohort meeting August 12 at the Page 7pm
Jim Walker of Hot Metal Bridge publishes his first book, Dirty Word.

Hey all! The Church Basement Road show is just two short weeks away. We are hoping that you are planning on coming out for this - it has gotten really good reveiws.

When: Thursday July 31, 2008
Where: Kay Spiritual Life Center on the campus of American University 4400 Massachusetts Avenue, NW
( Look for the roundish building on the corner at Ward Circle (Nebraska and Massachusett Avenue's) with the gold flame coming out of the top)
When: 7pm
Why: Because we want to spread the love of Christ!

Not sure what I'm talking about??? Check these out: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=seuS5w_xDgg&feature=related http://www.churchbasementroadshow.com/

Wesley is one of the sponsors of the event, so you can also find a link on our webpage. http://www.wesleyseminary.edu/

or the Wesley Blog http://blogs.wesleyseminary.edu/About/AWordfromWesley/tabid/75/EntryID/13/Default.aspx
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Volunteers are needed for set-up an tear down of the event on July 31. I already have a few folks, but could use a few more. Please let me know if you would like to help. I will give details as I get volunteers. Thanks!

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Next Cohort Meeting will be August 12 at the Front Page in Dupont Circle. We will discuss the Church Basement Road show. Come out for the last cohort gathering of the summer before schedules take over. 7pm right on metros red line.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Pastor Jim's new book Dirty Word is now available for purchase. The book is a kind of "behind the scenes" documentary about the ministry at Hot Metal. Jim uses many of the amazing stories that have come out of our faith community to share the good news of the Kingdom of God.
You can buy signed copies for the list price of $20 from Jim. On September 6, we will have a book-signing party at Joseph-Beth Booksellers on the South Side. Details on the party TBA at a later date.

The book is also available for sale through Amazon, cokesbury and other fine booksellers.

Hot Metal Bridge Faith Community
email: hotmetal@hotmetalbridge.com
phone: 412-481-4010
web: http://www.hotmetalbridge.com/v2/

DC Cohort Meeting July 8, 2008

2008-07-07T15:10:00.003-04:00

We will meet Tuesday July 8 at the Front Page at 7pm. We will debreif on Shane Claiborne's Jesus for President tour, get updates on the Church Basement Road show that will swing through DC on July 31at 7pm at American University and otherwise carry-on.

Hope you can come out!

The Front Page is located at Dupont Circle http://www.frontpageresturant.com/

Blessings!

Sara and Jason

June 10, 2008 - the conversation continues...

2008-06-08T08:08:00.004-04:00

Greetings! Hope everyone is staying cool in this tropical heat wave.

The DC Emerging cohort is meeting next June 10 - 7pm at the Front Page in Dupont Circle.

We will be discussing emergent; who were are, where we are going and how we worship. We would love to hear your prespective, so come on out.

This summer has some emergent events coming through our area.

June 27: Shane Claibourne will be at Calvery Baptist Church. 7pm - Register for free tickets here.

July 31: The Church Basement Road Show aka Tony Jones, Doug Pagit and Mark Scandrette at the Kay Spiritual Life Center at American University 7pm $10 at the door. Wesley Seminary is the acamedic sponsor for the tour - so come on out. More info is available here.

There is a rumor Pete Rollins that will be swinging through this fall - I'll try to keep you all posted on that one.

So hope to see you at the Page in Tuesday June 10 7pm

Blessings, Sara and Jason

Next Gathering Tuesday May 13 - something different

2008-05-02T21:41:00.004-04:00

Greetings! We (Jason, Todd and 2mikes) have been talking and have decided to do something a little different this time. Yes we will still meet at Dupont Circle and Yes still at 7pm. BUT... This time we will do something for the environment instead of talking, talking, talking...

Meet us (those of us with bags picking up trash) in the middle of Dupont Circle and pick-up trash for a while and then head off to get a bite to eat, coffee, whatever. Word?? Let's help make DC a little cleaner. BYOB (bring your own Bag, please)

Questions??

Let me know!

Sara

ssheppard@wesleyseminary.edu

DC Cohort Meeting Tuesday April 8th

2008-04-04T13:30:00.003-04:00

Hi!! We will gather at the Front Page at Dupont Circle on Tuesday April 8th at 7pm. Topic: Debrief on Deepshift event last month.

Come and share your learnings and connect with the folks you met at the event. We are looking forward to seeing you! reservation will be under "Jason Mack."

Blessings,

Sara

The Front Page resturant is located across the street from the Dupont Circle metro stop.

Potato Drop at Wesley Seminary March 26th

2008-03-12T11:54:00.002-04:00

Hi! Plumbline, the social justice group on campus, is planning a potato drop at Wesley Theological Seminary on March 26th. I hear that they are expecting 45000 lbs of loose potatos to be dropped to be bagged up by great volunteers like you. Never seen Mt. Potato before?? Now's your chance!

Time: 9:30am until we finish
Where: 4500 Massachusetts Avenue, NW Washington DC
Who: YOU! and the Wesley Theological Seminary community
When: Wednesday, March 26th - there is a slight chance that this won't happen due to a potato shortage - I will post some if that's the case.

Questions?? Give me a jingle - 202-885-8688

Blessings!!

Sara

March 11, 2008 Paul Nixon to visit us

2008-03-07T12:26:00.002-05:00

Greetings! This is an exciting weekend in DC - full of terrific actitivites including the Deep Shift conference. For a detail of the events this weekend, see the previous post.

On Tuesday night we will meet at the Front Page in Dupont Circle to debreif about the weekend and to hear from Paul Nixon, pastor and church planter. Hope you can join us and help us to welcome any new cohorters that may join us as a result of the Deep Shift experience.

7pm at the Front Page
Dupont Circle Metro stop

Blessings,

Sara

Deep Shift, Christian Witness for Peace and the DC Cohort

2008-02-24T18:50:00.007-05:00

Folks, The weekend of March 7-8, 2008 is a busy one for emergentizers like us. Please see the fab info put together by our own Mike Stavlund. Thanks Mike!! The cohort will meet next on Tuesday March 11 at the Front Page at Dupont Circle 7pm. We will unpack the weekend's events. Come see us at Deep Shift. You'll find me at the cohort information table. Blessings! Sara and Jason

In a few weeks, there will be a fascinating and multi-faceted weekend in Washington, DC, which may be of interest to those engaged with Emergent Village:

March 7, noon. A worship service in conjunction with Christian Peace Witness for Iraq at the historic New York Avenue Presbyterian Church. A group of friends of emergent, including Brian McLaren and The Cobalt Season, have been collaborating on a service to lament the 5th anniversary of the war in Iraq. This will be a unique event: less a shaking of our collective fist at the Powers that Be, and more an appeal for imagination and determination in the pursuit of the way of peace, both for ourselves and our leaders.

If you can make it, please join us afterward for the walk to the Capitol, where we will assemble at 2:30pm with other groups from various faith backgrounds to bear witness to our governmental leaders about the ongoing devastation of ourselves and our 'enemies'. This will culminate with representatives from our interfaith group meeting with the offices of Speaker Pelosi and Senator Reid to deliver our appeal to support the troops, to end the war, and to stop torture.

March 7-8. A similar (though much broader) conversation will be happening at Brian McLaren's Everything Must Change/DeepShift conference outside DC in Vienna, Virginia. Brian and other artists will be exploring the ideas presented in his new and thought-provoking book of the same title. If you've even perused this book, then you know that this event promises to be an amazing invitation to creativity and Kingdom vision.

March 8, 7:30pm. A coffee house event with Christian Peace Witness for Iraq, also at NY Ave. Presbyterian Church. The Cobalt Season will be performing, along with David LaMotte and several other artists.

March 9, 10am. Since The Cobalt Season is in town, noted emergent church The Common Table will be hosting them for their morning worship service, also in Vienna, Virginia.

I hope to see you at one or more of these events!

Mike Stavlund

CANCELLED: February 12 - Paul Nixon from Epicenter will Speak

2008-02-07T14:39:00.000-05:00

Folks, due to the weather we are canceling this gathering. We'd rather you be safe that ice skating in your cars on the way home. Paul will join us next month, March 11th and we will discuss the Deep Shift event the weekend before. Stay Safe!! Sara and Jason

Hey, Good News! I have received confirmation that Paul Nixon from Epicenter Charge will be our speaker at the next cohort meeting. Paul is currently in the process of planting multiple locations of his congregation across Northern Virginia. Come and hear his story, what his vision is and how things are going so far. http://www.epicenterdc.com/

We will meet at the Front Page at Dupont Circle at 7pm.

ALSO: Don't forget that Brian McLaren will be in town for the Deep Shift Tour March 7th and 8th at the Vienna Presbyterian Church. Please e-mail me if you are able to volunteer and let em know what you would be willing to do (book table, kitchen, general helper). One of the foci of this conference will be on the cohorts; how they are formed, what we do, recruiting, etc. So, come on out and support your favorite cohort group! Registration and info can be found here -http://deepshift.org/site/

COMING THIS SUMMER: There are two other speaking tours swinging through town we want to let you know about.

Shane Claibourne will come through June 27th - location TBD (but I'm working on it!) to promote his new title; Jesus For President. This promised to be an interesting, interactive event. http://www.jesusforpresident.org/

Tony Jones and Friends will be through July 31 at American University's Kay Spiritual Life Center for the Basement Tour aka the RV Tour. Tony Jones will be available to sign his newest title, The New Christians: Dispacthes from the Emergent Frontier. Details are still being worked out, but we will post them as they become available. http://tonyj.net/ To my knowledge there is no specific tour info on-line yet - watch this space!

Let us know if you have any questions.

Peace, Sara and Jason

Happy New Year!!

2008-01-04T15:09:00.000-05:00

Hi Cohorters! We are gathering Tuesday January 8th at the Front Page in Dupont Circle at 7pm. I am hoping to have a surprise speaker join us, but in the event that doesn't materialize, we will talk about what we are reading, doing, preaching - ya 'know - the usual. :)

Thanks to Mike Croghan, we now have a Face Page presence. We'd love to have you join the group and continue to grow in the virtual realm.

Also to add to your calendars; Brian McLaren will be in town promoting his newest book, Everything Must Change March 7th and 8th. The conference will take place in VA. For more info, go to http://deepshift.org/site/ . The DC Cohort and other area groups will have chance to help out with the conference. If you are interested in volunteering, please let me know. As part of the cohort you will be eligible for a discounted registration rate, and free stuff. (aka books - who doesn't like free books!) Let me know (Sara) so I can provide the registration code to you.

Hope to see you on the 8th at 7pm.

Blessings!

Sara and Jason

Front Page Restaurant

Dupont Metro Station

7pm

DC Cohort will meet December 11th at Front Page

2007-12-03T11:55:00.000-05:00

Hi!! Have you eaten all the Thanksgiving turkey and now gearing up for Christmas cookies? Take a break from holiday bingeing; Come on down and share a pint and a burger with the cohort on the 11th of December. We will start talking about what part the cohort will want to play in Brian McLaren's book tour, Everything Must Change, when it comes through town in March. Cohorts all across the country are starting to join forces and enjoy community together. Let's talk about what that would look like for us!

For more info about the Brian's new book go to http://deepshift.org/site/ . Tour info is also available at this sight.

The Cohort will meet December 11, 2007 at 7pm

Front Page Restaurant at the Dupont Circle Metro

Questions? Drop me a line!

Blessings, Sara

ssheppard@wesleyseminary.edu

DC Cohort to Gather November 13th

2007-10-29T11:59:00.000-04:00

Hey gang, We will gather at the Front Page for a smorgasbord of topics. Some of us have received an advance copy of John Franke's new book Manifold Witness: The Plurality of Truth which we'll discuss (at least as far as we've read!).

Also on our minds is the Soularize 2007 event that just took place in Bermuda. This may have been the last one - we are sad to say. Come here about the events and how to hear the discussions that took place via podcast.

Also on our minds is neo-monastism. We have several communities around the DC area that we interact with. This is a topic of special interest for this cohort.

Join us to talk about one or all of these topics on:

November 13th, 2007

at 7:00pm

The Front Page Resturant

Dupont Circle, Washington, DC

Metro accessible - across the street from Dupont Circle Metro!

Questions? Let me know --

Sara

October 9, 2007 - Next cohort gathering at the Front Page

2007-09-25T15:08:00.000-04:00

Wow! Last month we had a surprise guest. Brian McLaren join us to hear his lovely wife Grace talk about their trip this past May to Africa. It was very interesting to hear that many of the African church leaders are struggling with many of the same congregational issue we do in the west. Grace shared an incredible story about a woman she met while she was there and encouraged us to help those with the abundance we are blessed with. We thank Grace and Brian for joining us last month.

The next cohort gathering will take place Tuesday October 9 at 7pm at the Front Page at Dupont Ciricle. Several of the dc cohort crew will make the pilgramage to Santa Fe, New Mexico the week before for the annual emergent gathering. Come hear their experiences and share a meal.

The Front Page at Dupont Circle 7pm October 9th. They are directly across the street from the Dupont Circle Metro.

See you there!

Grace McLaren will talk about her trip to Amahoro

2007-08-27T16:48:00.001-04:00

Join the DC Cohort in welcoming Grace McLaren as our speaker Tuesday September 11, 2007. Grace will talk to us about her trip to Amahoro Africa this past spring with Brian and other emerging leaders. This promises to be an eye opening evening. We will meet at the Front Page in Dupont Ciricle. Details are in the post below.

Call with questions 202-885-8688 or ssheppard@wesleyseminary.edu

Blessings,

Sara

September 11, 2007 gathering at the Front Page

2007-08-09T19:27:00.000-04:00

Hey all, We are looking forward to seeing everyone at the September 11 gathering at the Front Page at 7pm. This is our new location and seemed to work pretty well last time. We are moving the gathering to the second Tuesday of the month to accomodate yours truly who will be in class on Mondays during the fall - Thanks everyone!!

The reservation will either be under "DC Cohort" or my name, "Sara Sheppard" - try both. I know we had one person who couldn't find us last time and we apologise for that mix up. I'm working on a speaker and will let you know when I know as those plans fall into place.

There are couple events coming up from emergantvillage this fall. One is the annual gathering in New Mexico October 2 - 5th. There are at least 3 of us from the cohort who will attend so hope to have you join us and hang out in Sante Fe.

Also, Scot McKnight is hosting Emergence 2007 in Austin, TX October 19 - 20, 2007. This will be a weekend of conversation with the likes of Dan Kimball, Doug Pagitt and others. go to the Emergentvillage home page for information on both these events.

The Front Page
1333 New Hampshire Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20036

Take the red line to Dupont Circle and walk across the street. 7pm.

Call me with questions - 202-885-8688

Blessings,

Sara

Next gathering July 16, 2007 - NEW PLACE!

2007-06-23T20:48:00.000-04:00

Hi all, We are changing our venue and head'n into the city to Dupont Circle and the Front Page. The Front Page is a Washington DC institution and is on the red line at Dupont Circle. Use the south exit and walk across the street.

We are also meeting ONE WEEK later than usual - - Monday July 16th at 7pm. We hope those of you who could not make it to Bethesda will join us since we'll be across the street (literally) from the metro stop. No more schlepping 4 or 5 blocks or running the risk of a parking ticket - we are making it easy for you to be a part of this conversation.

Speaking of conversation, come and join us, share your thoughts on the emerging church, let us know what's happening in your churches, learn from each other about what's happening in the DC scene, enjoy a brew and berger. It doesn't get much better than this!

Monday July 16, 2007 - -7pm

See ya at the The Front Page

1333 New Hampshire Avenue, NW

Washington, DC

DC Cohort Schedule - May and June, 2007 - Big doings!

2007-05-01T11:19:00.000-04:00

Church for the Rest of Us: A Gathering to Envision, Encourage, & Energize Renewing Mainline Congregations. Thursday May 10 - Saturday May 12, 2007 at the Washington National Cathedral.

Come join us at the Washington National Cathedral to reflect on the direction of the church. Share in creating a time of holy space in worship, music, meals and prayer. Explore key areas including worship, hospitality, discernment, tradition, justice, formation and beauty, drawn from Diana Butler Bass' latest book Christianity for the Rest of Us.

Speakers include: Howard Anderson, Diana Butler Bass, Marcus Borg, Tony Jones, Michael Battle and Samuel T. Lloyd. Theology Pub with Tony Jones and Steve Pankey. For more information go to http://www.cathedralcollege.org

Our next DC Cohort meeting will be Monday evening May 14th. We will have a conversation surrounding the recent Emergant Theological/Philosophical gathering in Philadelphia. Several of our own attended this meeting and hopefully they will share what they heard, learned and gleaned from the gathering.

June 11th will bring us Wes White, an American theologican who lives in Glasgow, Scotland and is spearheading the TREK (Theological Resoursing for an Emerging Kultur) across Europe. We are grateful that Wes was able to stay an extra day on his journey across the pond to spend an evening with us. TREK springs from the concept of sharing around the local table and in healthy mission.

White writes, "TREK is premised on the conviction that there is good and bad theology, and that the distance between the two is best measured by mission. Furthermore, we, the TREK Team, beleive that good theology includes facts (history, geography, personages, events, ect.) , but so much more. Healthy theology fancies the narrative, the nuance, the give and take, the mystery, the passion, and the imagination. In short, it personifies the freedom that inheres in God himself who is realationship in community (trinity) and who, in love (1John 4:8) invites the whole of creation into the ever expanding community of himself (mission)".

Please join us for a lively convesation this night.

More information about TREK can be found here http://www.localtable.org

We can be found at the Harp and Fiddle, 4844 Cordell Avenue, Bethesda, MD 20814

on the 2nd Monday of the month in the back room at 7pm.

All are Welcome!

Mark Scandrette, author of Soul Grifitti, will be our speaker April 9th

2007-03-29T13:08:00.000-04:00

We have a really exciting speaker on Monday April 9, 2007 7pm - - Mark Scandrette, author of the newly published Soul Grafitti: Making a Life in the Way of Jesus. Mark is the executive director and cofounder of ReIMAGINE, and a senior fellow with Emergent. He has contributed and authored several books including An Emergent Manifesto of Hope (due out April 1), The Relevant Church: A Vision for Communities of Faith and Community of Kindness. Mark has also been a pastor, a lecturer for the U.S. center for world Missions, a retreat leader and a life coach and spiritual director.

On April 9th, Mark will be with us to talk about has recent book, Soul Graffiti. This book explores the message of Jesus as an invitation to embrace life as a sacred journey, learning to collaborate with our Maker's intentions to bring healing and greater wholeness to our world. Through stories and reflections, Soul Grafitti addresses the questions, What was the essential message of Jesus and how can we inhabit that message as a way of life? What if everything matters? Soul Graffiti is an invitation to explore the life and teachings of Jesus as a pattern for pursueing a spiritual path that is fueled by compassion, creativity, community and connection. http://www.markscandrette.com/

The DC Cohort welcomes Mark Scandrette. Please join us!

Monday April 9, 2007

7pm - 9pm

The Harp and Fiddle

4844 Cordell Avenue

Bethesda, MD 20814

http://flanagansharpandfiddle.com

The Harp and Fiddle is within walking distance from the Bethesda Metro (red line) Exit the metro on the west side of Wisconsin Avenue. walk down Old Georgetown Road 1 block and turn right on Woodmont Avenue. Walk several blocks to cordell Avenue, turn left. The Harp and fiddle should be right there.

Blessings,

Sara

Homeless Church Ministry in DC

2007-03-05T17:58:00.000-05:00

Join us Monday, March 12th at the Harp and Fiddle as we welcome Brian Lehman, founder of the Church of the Homeless in DC. Brian, an attorney turned pastor, began to fellowship and attend bible studies at the National Community Church along side the homeless of Washington, DC. He soon realized that many of the homeless needed more than an occasional hand-out, they needed a place to live out their faith. He learned from the men and women he fellowshiped with that the homeless often feel unwelcome at area churches. To fill this need, he created Church of the Homeless, a new church plant, to minister to their spiritual needs. They now meet regularly at Union Station.

Brian Lehman has been shaped by the writings of radical Christians such as Shane Clayborne and the inspirational preaching and writings of Mark Batterson at National Community Church. Brian will join us to tell his story, how he learned of this need, and how he answered God's call to serve the homeless. (www.churchofthehomeless.org).

Monday March 12th at 7pm

Flanegan's Harp and Fiddle

4844 Cordell Avenue

Bethesda, MD 20814

We'll be in the back room.

Hope to see you there,

Sara

Special Invitation to the Dominican House of Studies this Sunday Feb 18

2007-02-13T08:54:00.000-05:00

Greetings! We have received an invitation from Karen Sloan, a Presbyterian minister from New Haven, CT who is interested in exploring 'new/old' monastic connections to visit the Dominican House of Studies Sunday afternoon Feb 18th. Karen visited the Dominicans with Brian McLaren this past October, has written an article about them published in Relevant magazine and is now making a return visit to DC. The Dominicans are, as she put's it, "Emergent-minded", and eager to share their tradition.

The schedule for Sunday is:
3:30 - 4:00pm Gathering and Tour of the House of Studies
4:00 - 5:30pm Presentation, Conversation, Q&A, about Dominican Life
5:40 - 6:00pm Evening Prayer with the Dominicans in their Chapel

If possible, Karen requests an RSVP to flirtingwithmonasticism@gmail.com so they will know how many to expect.

The address is:

Dominican House of Studies
487 Michigan Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20017-1585
http://www/dhs.edu/about/directionsandmap.aspx

If you have time before hand, the Basilica of the National Shrine is across the street. Not only is this a beautiful sancutary, but there are a couple of book stores worth browsing. This sounds like an exciting opportunity! The link to the Dominican House of Studies website is http://www.dhs.edu

Hope to see you there. Let me know if you have any questions!

Blessings,

Sara

Atlanta Mainline cohort follow-on

2007-01-30T15:22:00.000-05:00

Hi all - hope some of you are down in beautiful Atlanta at the Mainline-Emerging cohort meeting. I know one of our own is there, Steve Pankey and he has graciously offered to lead the next cohort meeting 7pm on March 12, 2007 at the Harp and Fiddle in Bethesda. I'm looking forward hearing what's happening in the mainline meets emerging world and I hope you all are too. For questions and inquiries, please contact Sara Sheppard at ssheppard@wesleyseminary.edu.

Blessings

Next meeting January 15th, 2007

2006-12-20T11:54:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year everyone!! Our next meeting will be in '07 on January 15th at the Harp and Fiddle in Bethesda. We look forward see everyone there. The peace of Christ be with you during this holiday season.

Sara

Harp and Fiddle December 11, 2006

2006-11-24T08:32:00.000-05:00

Hi all! Our next gathering will be at the Harp and Fiddle in Bethesda on December 11 at 7 pm. They have a sweet little back room that has served us well and may become our regular space. Come on out for a little Advent cheer and conversation. I am working on a speaker, but if anyone has a burning topic they would like to discuss drop me an e-mail.

Other tentative dates to put on your calenders are January 15, February 12 and March 12. We will meet from 7 pm - 9 pm each time.

Blessings!!

Sara

Brian McLaren, Pete Rollins and Phyllis Tickle Panel for November

2006-10-18T14:03:00.000-04:00

Thanks to Nadia at Illif for setting up a terrific panel for us in November. We will meet Sunday November 19th - during the AAR meetings - to engage Brian McLaren, Pete Rollins and Phyllis Tickle. Keelan Downton has agreed to be the host for this DC Cohort event.

We will meet at the Capitol City Brewing Company from 7pm - 9pm (1100 New York Avenue, NW, WDC 202-628-2222) at 11th and H street. They are one block north of Metro Center.

Brian McLaren is author of many titles on the emerging movement and one of the co-founders of Emergent Village. He is also the founding pastor for Cedar Ridge Community Church in Spencerville, MD. Brian is currently traveling the world speaking on many emerging topics. For his schedule, go to http://www.brianmclaren.net/

Pete Rollins is the founder and co-ordinator of Ikon (a community which describes itself as iconic, apocalyptic, heretical, emerging and failing) as well as being a writer and freelance lecturer in Philosophy. Check out his blog at http://www.ignite.cd/blogs/Pete/

Phyllis Tickle, for many years Contributing Editor in Religion to Publishers Weekly, the international journal of the book industry, is frequently quoted in sources like USA Today, Christian Science Monitor, NY Times, PBS, NPR, The Hallmark Channel, etc., Tickle is an authority on religion in America and a much sought after lecturer on the subject. For additional information and to view her recent publications go to http://www.phyllistickle.com/

We are looking forward to this event and hope to see you all there. Let me know if there are questions. Blessings,

Sara

Tonight October 16th

2006-10-16T16:39:00.000-04:00

Greetings - We are meeting tonight, however our speaker has the flu, so we'll engage her another time. BUT! Still come. We have dessert and coffee and good conversation happen' here. See you at 7pm at Wesley. Call me with questions 202-885-8688.

Sara

Diana Butler Bass at "Our House" Monday Oct 16th

2006-10-13T15:25:00.000-04:00

Greetings, We are excited to host Diana Butler Bass as our guest for the next DC Emerging Cohort. We will meet this month at "our house", Wesley Theological Seminary. Dinner is available in the dining hall for $7.50 and is served between 5:30 and 6:30. We will provide coffee, soda, water and dessert during the discussion time. The seminary is located at 4500 Massachusetts Avenue, NW Washington, DC. For directions click here. We will gather at 6:30 in Elderdice Hall (follow the signs) and begin the discussion at 7pm with a wrap up by 9pm.

Diana Butler Bass is joining us to discuss her new book that was published this month, Christianity For the Rest of Us. We will have few copies on hand ( read 2) if you want to purchase one and have her sign it. You may also want to go to your local book-monger and purchase it to bring with you. I also have 2 copies of one of her other books, The Practicing Congregation: Imagining a New Old Church. Let me know if you have any questions.

An Inconvience Truth: If you haven't had a chance to see this movie you have a chance back here at WTS Tuesday night Oct 17th for a FREE screening. Contact Eleanor Gease at 202-885-8611 with questions.

See you Monday! Blessings,

Sara

An evening with Dr. Don Dayton

2006-10-03T15:10:00.000-04:00

It was great to spend the evening with renowned church historian Dr. Don Dayton. In a casual dinner conversation Dr. Dayton shared stories of his numerous experiences in religious institutions that range from the most conservative to the most liberal. He told of how he often shocks both conservative and liberal institutions with information about their own history that they have forgotten.

We spent some time discussing the "great reversal". A time in American church history where religious institutions that are now considered to be the most socialy conservative were at the forefront of social change (abolitionism, women's suffrage, etc.). If you are interested in hearing this story in some detail I highly reckoned Dr. Dayton's influential book, Discovering an Evangelical Heritage.

I am excited also for our next meeting, mark your calendars for the evening of October the 16th when author and theologian, Diana Butler-Bass will be with us to talk about her book, Christianity For The Rest of Us. Details forthcoming.

Grace and peace,
jason

A Conversation with Don Dayton

2006-09-02T21:43:00.000-04:00

Come on out and join in a conversation with Don Dayton. Don Dayton will be our guest speaker for the September 18th Cohort gathering at Guapos - see below for details. He is in town to preach at Wesley Theological Seminary for our weekly chapel service at 11 am on Tuesday September 19. Don will also be the speaker for a Dean's forum at 12:30pm following the chapel service. His talk is entitled "Deconstructing the Conservative/Liberal Paradigm" All are welcome at either of these events on campus. Please RSVP to ssheppard@wesleyseminary.edu so I can save you a seat. Lunch is available for $7.50. Wesley is located right next to American University on Massachusetts Avenue. Our address is 4500 Massachusetts Avenue, NW. Washington, DC 20016.

Details for the DC Cohort Monday September 18 - We will meet at 7pm at Guapos in Tenleytown. The address is: 4515 Wisconsin Avenue, Washington, DC 20016. They are on the Red Line at the Tenleytown Metro stop. We will be in the upstairs room. Tell them you are with the DC Cohort - or just come on upstairs. See you there!

Change of plans... Next Cohort Meeting Monday September 18

2006-08-10T16:26:00.000-04:00

Hey gang, change of plans - The next cohort meeting will take place Monday September 18th at Guapos in Tenleytown. We have reserved the upstairs rooms so tell your friends and neighbors so we meet the minimum required number. :)

We will have a guest speaker, Don Dayton, author of "Discovering an Evangelical Heritage" with us to talk about the emerging church. Should be really great!

Let me know if you have questions.

Peace,

Sara

Next Meeting September 11

2006-08-08T16:18:00.000-04:00

Hi all, we will not be meeting next Monday and instead taking the month of August off. We will resume on Monday September 11, 2006 location TBD. We are searching for an appropriate location in DC for the DC cohort to meet... go figure. Let us know if there is something on your mind you'd like to discuss, a book you've read or anything in between.

Peace,

Sara

"The Story We Find Ourselves In" Conference

2006-07-27T08:47:00.000-04:00

Curious about the emerging church, where we came from and where we are going?

Explore the exciting heritage of Protestantism in America with us in September.

Speakers include: Brian McLaren, Estrelda Alexander, Scott Kisker, Diana Butler Bass, Doug Strong, Tim Keel, Don Dayton and Ron White.

September 18-21, 2006 at Cedar Ridge Community Church

Highlights include a Love feast, a Camp Meeting in a historic outdoor tabernacle, and Emerging Worship featuring Harp 46

Rates, Registration and Conference information available at http://www.wesleysem.edu/mci/story/default.asp

Register Now!

Questions? Contact Sara Sheppard at ssheppard@wesleyseminary.edu

Lets get together!

2006-07-05T11:59:00.000-04:00

Hey all,

Let's get together Monday night, July 10th at the Harp and Fiddle in Bethesda at 7:00. I thought we'd get a little theological and discuss atonement theory.

Hope to see you then!

Jason

Good times

2006-06-20T13:41:00.000-04:00

Thanks to everyone who joined us last week at the Harp and Fiddle. We had an interesting conversation about denominationalism and its continued relevance. Thanks especially to Keelan who lead the discussion and let us use a paper of his as a starting point for our conversation.

The floor is open again for people to offer suggestions for our next discussion topic.

See you tonight (June 12) at 7pm

2006-06-12T15:32:00.000-04:00

Just in case you were wondering we will meet tonight at 7pm at the Harp and Fiddle in Bethesda.

Cheers!

Discussion topic for tonight June 12

2006-06-12T08:09:00.002-04:00

Here again is the article from Keelan. The topic is post-denominationalism.

Sorry about that! I've been out of town and just returned.

http://www.blogger.com/"a>Unity in the Trans/Post(denomi)national Future

Discussion topic for tonight June 12

2006-06-12T08:09:00.001-04:00

Here again is the article from Keelan. The topic is being post-denominational.

Sorry about that! I've been out of town and just returned.

href="http://ecumenist.atspace.org/docs/trans-post-denominational.pdf">Unity in the Trans/Post(denomi)national Future

We will meet at the Harp and Fiddle June 12

2006-05-17T09:09:00.000-04:00

I have found a new place with a private space for us to meet. The Harp and Fiddle is on Cordell Avenue in Bethesda, MD. It is walkable from the metro, not as convient as last time, but doable. Please continue to comment on the suggest topic from privious posts. We will send out specific directions closer to the meeting.

Blessings!

Sara

Next meeting Monday June 12

2006-05-15T14:23:00.000-04:00

Hi all! We are working on an alternative location where we'll be able to hear each other and will announce that soon. Also, we are moving this group to the 2nd Monday of the month, which means our next meeting will be Monday June 12, 2006.

Stay tuned for the location - Does anyone have a topic they would like to discuss? Let us know what is on your minds. Thanks.

Peace,

Sara

Our First Meeting

2006-05-02T14:39:00.000-04:00

Hello, and thank you to all of you who came to the first inaugural DCCohort! Despite the less then ideal setting, I think it was a success! Most people had a chance to at least meet each other (which was, of course, the main goal) and some good conversation was had (at least on my end of the table) despite the noisy environment.

Down on our end of the table we talked primarily about generational issues in ministry--why are twenty and thirty somethings absent from many churches? On the other hand, some of us came from churches of mostly 20 and 30 somethings, why? What is different about these churches? Is it good or bad to have churches that are primarily one age group? Can we help it?

What were other conversations that happened around the room?

Guapos This Thursday April 27

2006-04-24T09:53:00.000-04:00

We are really looking forward to seeing everyone on Thursday at Guapos. The address, for those of you who don't know Tenleytown, is 4515 Wisconsin Avenue, NW Washington, DC. The phone number is 202-686-3588. They are right at the Tenleytown metro stop (red line). The best place to park is on the street. We'll meet at 7pm. See you there!

DC Cohort created

2006-03-27T11:29:00.000-05:00

Join us at 7pm on April 27 at Guapos Restaurant at Tenleytown for the first DC Cohort. We will introduce ourselves and begin to explore issues of the Emerging Church. All are welcome!