Respond to the Word: Take his hand

What is a prophet? Place newspapers or magazines in the seats for people to browse. What examples of prophets can we find in politics, economics, the environment, the Church? Cut them out and display around the church.

Draw up a CV for a prophet. Include: birth, age, education, qualifications, professional experience, other relevant experience, qualities, criminal declaration form.

Survey your children and young people about what they consider to be the three main issues of God’s concern. The world? The environment? The Church? The local community? This should provide helpful information for developing programmes during the coming months. Discuss how to draw the young people in to contribute to or develop reflection groups that explore these issues in more depth. Might they make ‘a report’ to the congregation and leadership, recommending ways in which the church could be further involved? Could they develop liturgies? Could they hold a conference and invite other churches and/or youth groups as well as interested stakeholders to participate?

Could you imagine your church being recognised as a prophetic church in your community? Is this desirable? How might you make it a reality? What space do we give for our ‘prophets’ to confront us with God’s word? What might be the consequences?