Two fish are swimming in the ocean. One turns to the other and says, “The water feels good today.” The other turns and says, “What’s water?” The things we take the most for granted are often what surrounds us, what from our perspective seem so universal as to be unquestionable. That is one reason why it’s so crucial to foster an atmosphere of cooperation and dialogue between ethnicities, so that our unquestioned cultural assumptions can be challenged and so true community in diversity can develop.
New Wine will be hosting a series of “Fireside Chats” beginning November 20th in the A-Frame. Come for prayer, food, and honest dialogue as a panel of speakers involved in the less-than-glamorous work of multi-ethnic integration will answer your questions and address such topics as: What is a multi-ethnic church? How does one create an open space for other cultures and ethnicities? How can Multnomah improve in this crucial area?
I am looking forward to learning and engaging with others who swim in different water than me. So much richness in diversity that I believe we are called to celebrate, not hinder or leave unexplored out of ignorance or fear. This will be a great opportunity to learn and listen and grow.