The Wisconsin Council of Churches is a network of people and organizations working together faithfully across difference to address critical issues with creativity and courage. We are rooted in our Christian identity and open to partners of any faith and none. We are inspired by a vision of a world filled with Courage, Justice, and Holy Imagination. As we are faithful in our work, we envision an increase in creativity, courage, and community in those influenced by those in our network.
The Unity and Relations Commission of the Council is charged with ensuring a theological grounding for all our work. In the winter of 2019-2020, they took up the strategic visioning of the Board of Directors and began their own task of theological reflection. They engaged in substantive conversation about a one-page Theory of Change organizing our work, as well as priorities and values associated with it.
Just as the writing group finished its final draft, Rev. Tim Berlew, the chairperson of the Commission, died unexpectedly. We concluded this theological reflection with the traditional benediction he so dearly loved and recommended as part of its text:
Go forth into the world in peace.
Be of good courage.
Hold fast that which is good.
Render to no one evil for evil.
Strengthen the fainthearted.
Support the weak.
Help the afflicted.
Show love to everyone.
Love and serve the Lord,
rejoicing in the power of the Holy Spirit;
and the blessing of almighty God,
the Father, the + Son, and the Holy Spirit,
be among you and remain with you always.
Amen.
This document is dedicated to the memory of the Rev. Tim Berlew, United Methodist pastor, church musician, and child of God; chair of the Unity & Relations Commission of the Wisconsin Council of Churches 2019-2020.
The final text of the document was endorsed by the Commission, and approved by the Wisconsin Council of Churches Board of Directors in November 2020.
