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 | The Statement: ...Christian Unity is a foundational reality...
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 | The Conversation: As we live out our lives together, many assert that the task is to find the ways that we show our unity. Dr. Jim Ryan, the Executive Director of the Colorado Council of Churches reminds us that we are already one -- no matter what we may believe
otherwise. The opportunity is to live into that reality of unity.
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 | Different Vantages:
 | As we gather on the first day of the week for worship, we note the differences in the way we conduct our worship services, from very high liturgy complete with bells and incense drawing us to the Eucharist, through more informal services which focus on the teaching of the Word, to those who
sit in silence, waiting on the presence of the Spirit..
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 | As we seek guidance through the Word of God, we note the differences in how we hold the authority of Scripture in our community.
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 | As we mark our membership in the church, we note the difference in the emphasis on various sacraments which have been part of the Christian tradition.
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 | As we are guided by those in authority in our community, we note the differences in how we hold the authority of those in the church, from a structured hierarchy with authority given to a recognized leader to congregational authority to determine how the community should live together.
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 | Questions for Reflection:
 | What are some of the different experiences we have had in worship services? What gifts do the various traditions bring as we celebrate our life together.
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 | What commonalties do we see in how we look at Scripture. What are the strengths/weaknesses of the various positions on the authority of scripture?
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 | What sacraments are very important to you? What happened in your Christian walk that made them important? What sacraments are emphasized in your particular church? Which ones are not given as much emphasis.
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 | How do you respond to those who are in authority in the church? What is your understanding of what that authority means?
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 | Resources for Research:
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 | The Invitation: Talk to a friend who goes to a different church or visit a different church. In that experience, see how God is present and actively notice those things which show that we are already one. |
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