02.03.2023
Gathering Around Two Tables – Reflection from the Joint Clergy Retreat in Jordan
Clergy from the United Dioceses of Dublin & Glendalough are currently in Jordan for a joint retreat with clergy of our partner Diocese of Jerusalem. This is the ‘second leg’ of the retreat. Clergy from Jerusalem visited Dublin & Glendalough before Covid. Here, the Revd Rob Jones, Rector of Rathmines with Harold’s Cross and Director of the Church of Ireland’s Pioneer Ministry movement, reflects on the third official day of their retreat (buth fourth for many in Jordan) on Wednesday March 1.
I think many of us in Dublin and Glendalough may be unaware of the size of the Jerusalem Diocese. It’s not just restricted to Israel , but also covers Palestine, Lebanon, Syria and Jordan. Across this expansive area of faith there is much to learn from and this is one of the main reasons why it’s extremely valuable to build connection with this unique province of the Anglican Communion. The last time a team came from Ireland they were located mostly in Israel, but this time we are based in Jordan to learn from church leaders throughout this very diverse diocese and we are learning across two types of tables.
Firstly we have gathered around the Holy Communion table. To sing together. To pray together. To experience different leaders lead worship in distinct ways, which has resulted in a wonderful sense of collegiality and common purpose in our ministries. Also it has helped us understand more about the varied nature of what it means to be different, but part of the one body of Christ. Such a major lesson in our cosmopolitan world today.
Secondly we have gathered around a shared table of learning. Here, we have listened to one another’s stories and experiences. Furthermore we have learnt from each other about the challenges, the opportunities and also the risks of what it means to be an effective leader in the Church today. Even though our cultural settings are extremely different, it’s a gift to see how the leadership lessons can be very similar. This diversity has led to some very interesting discussions around the practicalities of leading a parish in the 21st century when much around us is changing.
We as a group of leaders have found both tables, both communion and learning, to have been very useful . On the third day of the retreat we used the image of Shepherd from 1 Peter chapter 5, which encourages us to be leaders who love, tend and pastor the existing flock, while also being humble leaders who take risks and go after the lost sheep, even if there is cultural resistance. This retreat has been both informative and practically very helpful. Learning from other leaders has been especially productive, which is helping us to think and plan new opportunities, while also being mindful of the possible hazards as we look for new missional prospects. Retreats like this to the Diocese of Jerusalem are so important, not only for our own Diocese to continue to grow our precious relationship with the Holy Land, but also it significantly helps leaders become more self aware and effective in their own contexts.