| abstract |
The project develops an education/evangelistic process and practice at the Merrell
United Methodist Church (MUMC) which seeks to connect young adults of Caribbean
immigrants with older Caribbean immigrants and arises out of concern that descendants
of the Caribbean diaspora in south Florida are not fully invested in the life of the church
while requiring occasionally local church interventions or services.
The purpose, developed through open space technology is to initiate renewal of
the relationship of the church within a wider context, that facilitate and empower
conversations toward creating community and spiritual care for and with young adults of
Caribbean immigrants.
The project explores the ways that MUMC has disconnected with young adults
and examines ways of reengaging young adults. Through interviewing six young adults, I
discovered intersections of culture, future goals, expectations and experience of church,
and some concerns related to their community and spiritual care. An action plan was
crafted with participation of four MUMC stakeholders (church leaders) using data from
the interviews, applying Appreciative Inquiry theory, and learning through theological
lens to be hospitable neighbors. The action plan encourages intentional conversations
where older adults meet younger adults by facilitating safe and non-judgmental space for
full self-disclosure, along with facing fears in society. The goal is to learn together how
to be an inclusionary church within conversations that are relatable and offers space for
re-imagination of being neighbors loved by God.
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