Formed in Christ: What is your story?

"Disciples of Jesus are not born, they are grown and raised." That is how Pastor Phil Kniss opened the sermon this Sunday. After that statement, Pastor Phil invited 6 persons from the congregation to share their stories of growing into disciples of Jesus Christ. These 6 were not asked bnecause they are perfect disciples. Rather, they are simply persons on their journey of discipleship. Art Borden and Angela Sonifrank shared their perspective of how they have formed through history and how faith expressed in various ways and denominations shaped and encouraged them. Bonnie Stutzman and Greg Sachs shared what practices are currently forming them. Bonnie spoke of prayer as a practice that stretches her and points her in the direction of God, strengthening her. Greg spoke of how potluck meals, rolling down hills, and reading his phone are current practices that provide a foundation, energy, and community that shape him and help him grow. Vi Dutcher and Brian Gumm shared about ways they believe God is calling them into new practices. Vi spoke of turning toward whom and what she deeply loves. Brian spoke of his developing call to a teaching ministry. Abram and Sarai were called to a land they did not know, to follow a God they did not understand. Brian is on a similar journey, following God into the unknown. May we all follow God's call and allow ourselves to be shaped and formed.