What is a church? The book of Acts is the very first story of the church. What is the big story of these texts and how do they still matter to us in the modern world?

SLIDES GEORGE READ IN OUR GATHERING

“When we claim and constantly reclaim the truth of being the chosen ones, we soon discover within ourselves a deep desire to reveal to others their own chosen-ness. Instead of making us feel that we are better, more precious or valuable than others, our awareness of being chosen opens our eyes to the chosen-ness of others. That is the great joy of being chosen: the discovery that others are chosen as well. There is a place for everyone – a unique, special place. Once we deeply trust that we ourselves are precious in God’s eyes, we are able to recognize the preciousness of others and their unique places in God’s heart.”

-Henri Nouwen, Life of the Beloved