Hey fellow leaders and friends-
I just wanted to post and let you know that I spent an amazing four days on a Mennonite farm in rural Illinois with several hundred other campers at the P.A.P.A. Festival.
P.A.P.A. stands for People Against Poverty and Apathy. Basically it was a convergence of many different Christian communities and movements, as well as many interested individuals.
The days started of with a beautiful liturgy and prayer. From that point on they were chock full of learning seminars and skill share workshops. Topics included everything from ‘how to build/manage intentional community’ to ‘homeopathy’ to ‘racial reconciliation.’ The evenings, 7-11 pm, were full of wonderful music and speaker phone calls from leaders like Tony Campolo, Brain McLaren, Elizabeth McAlister, Ched Myers, and others who have been meaningful mentors/elders for communities like The Simple Way, Camden House, etc. Shane Claiborne and Melissa DeLong emceed the mornings and evenings on the main stage. Other highlights were great local produce and baked goods from the farm, a bartering tent, a prayer tent, and some good old school camping. What a delight to be barefoot for four days in a row!
It was a thought provoking and peaceful weekend, surrounded by many beautiful people- all of us seeking to grow more in our faith, follow Christ, and learn how to love God and one another a little more…
Your comment about going barefooted for four days reminded me of the time that Rich Mullins, one of my favorite singers, performed barefooted at my rather conservative and traditional Southern Baptist church and was criticized by some of the church members for being so casual. I might be wrong, but I think Rich’s reasoning was to show humility while ministering from the pulpit. Those of us who remember him and who were fans of his know how truly humble he was. He did not seek fame or fortune but chose to minister to the poor and downtrodden.
Regena Sawyer
June 25th, 2008
God bless you Regena Sawyer. That’s exactly how Rich Mullins was. Thanks for helping to keep his memory alive for those of us who still love him and miss him so much.
Laura floyd
June 27th, 2008