As I write this article the first real signs of Spring on the Prairies are in evidence, accompanied by that majestic sound of geese once again flying north in "V" formation. I once read that the "V" formation allows the Canada geese to fly 71 % further than a bird flying alone. That should tell us all something about sticking together in our churches.

My travels across Canada, as ARM Ambassador, have provided me with so many opportunities at the local parish level, allowing me to share about the New Testament imagery of the church as a close knit body of believers under the headship of Jesus; experiencing the pulling together of us all and seeing us become involved in a variety of ministries. My starting point for a reflection on the church that I sense God envisions, is usually rooted in these words - "They continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine, and fellowship, in the breaking of bread and in prayers." (Acts 2:42)

It seems to me that the aforementioned quotation from Acts offers a vision for any Spirit-filled and Spirit-led body of Anglican believers in this third millennium. Such a visionary church will be encouraging small group gatherings during the week for prayer, Christian nurturing evangelism and outreach ministries. Parishioners will be helped actually to discover their gifts for ministry and then be released and prayerfully empowered to serve our Lord. Clergy in turn will be spiritually attuned to the real heart of servant leadership which includes equipping at the local parish level. ARM delights in helping clergy to grow in this style of ministry through its Leadership Training Institutes offered in various parts of the country.

Like geese, the parish priest and parishioners, in renewed and growing parishes, will fly in close formation to ensure that their parish vision is fulfilled.

As I read God's word, it would seem that true conversion marks the end of individualism and ones full entry into Christian community. We are all called to share the common life in God's church in a variety of ways. One such way, as already mentioned is to discover that in a growing and alive church, the core of ministry will be found less in one person and more in a growing number of parishioners. Other areas I cover in my parish renewal weekends include what I call "The Ten Vital Signs of a Healthy Parish." If you would like to explore any of those then dimensions further, please contact me. I would be happy to send you more detailed information.

At the present time, I am preparing my itinerary for 2004. ARM also has a list of Missioners who can be called upon to lead parish renewal events.

A final word in reference to those geese flying overhead these days. Wherever you worship, don't break formation with the rest of the flock. Stick together like the geese and play your full part. Oh yes --- don't forget to 'cackle' once in a while in support of your spiritual leader. Those whom God chooses to lead us in our parish settings really do need encouragement. Take it from me, I've been there.

- Blessings, Bishop Malcolm Harding.

Bishop Malcolm is the ambassador of ARM Canada and was formerly the Episcopal bishop of the diocese of Brandon.

The Rt. Rev. Malcolm Harding
Episcopal Visitor to ARM