What did I get from this conference and what does it say to me about Ordained Ministry?
First, it was a magnificent community event. 300 like minded people joining together to seek the Spirit’s guidance and wisdom in how we can use social (New) media to engage with people online and off
line. The atmosphere was electric, joyful and full of good nature and humour. I was able to meet new online friends, off line and to know that our online relationships, transfer with ease to off line.
Second, the content of the conference was challenging and wide ranging. Last time I went to mainly theological type presentations, this year I was looking for more practical, ‘matter of fact’ presentations
from acknowledged ‘digidisciples’ who I have come to know and to interact with online, to enhance my understanding of the more practical aspects of NM. I sense that next time I would look towards the more technical ‘geeky’
aspects of NM.
Third, a large number of the participants both presenters and participants were in Ordained or Lay ministries within their respective denominations, a mix of a high proportion of Anglican/Methodist, but with lots more from Baptist and Free churches. Each one I spoke to or interacted with had a story to share and imbued all that they did with a clear and refreshing perspective of ‘why they were here - and what they were about’,
God’s business.
Conclusion. From my perspective it was both encouraging and invigorating to be among them, able to communicate in their language, but also to feel affirmed that my input was as valued as theirs. The word I would
use is ‘welcoming’ which seems to me to be a large part of Ministry. The listening, accepting, welcoming of the new, while respecting and holding it in tension with the traditional and cultural aspects of our
faith and belief and seeing where they fit together to pass on the good news.
