May/June issue highlights from Helen

Welcome to our May/June issue, which includes the celebration of Pentecost, where we remember the birth of the Early Church. Steve Taylor has written an all-age resource that helps us to engage in and celebrate our part within the Global Church.

Our focus passages in May are from 1 Peter, and our weekly material gives us the opportunity to learn how the Early Church shaped themselves around Jesus as they faced persecution. The rich imagery of being built together and sharing encouragements and gifts while suffering is perhaps an important message in our cultural context, where we are often tempted to live a more individualistic faith. Our Bible notes writer, Caroline Wickens, explores the themes in Scripture in context.

Roots has been pioneering intergenerational worship for many years, but what might this look like in a small-group setting? In her article How to set up an intergenerational small group, Dr Sam Richards offers a fascinating insight into the benefits of these groups and practical tips for making them places where everyone can contribute and grow in faith together.

Community organising by Charnelle Barclay is the latest article in our Reimagining Evangelism series. Charnelle offers theological and cultural reflections on what it means to share the good news by empowering communities to seek holistic justice. This sense of engagement feels pertinent to our weekly themes, as we consider shaping our churches to be communities of kingdom believers, sharing a gospel that promises to impact daily life.

I hope you are able to enjoy learning, worshipping and celebrating together in your churches over these next two months.

Helen Bearn,
Worship Together Senior Editor
helen.bearn@rootsforchurches.com