The paranoia of the swine flu that is rising from south of the U.S. border seems to continue to swell. It has shadowed the economy and torture in military prisons on the news. And with it, I can already here the fear of those "dirty Mexicans" rising as well. Another reason to shut down the borders, eh? ... We are pathetic.

highs and lows of church

C. Wess Daniels' most recent video post on the subject of worship got me thinking about a few things. I love it in Daniels' video when he says that he is growing to appreciate both liturgy and unprogrammed forms of worship. This may seem contradictory. But it is more common than you may have thought. Lots of people seem to simultaneously appreciate highly participatory, egalitarian forms of worship while also appreciating liturgical practices as well. A year ago I was at the going way party for my Episcopal friend Mike Angell at Blue Foot. I talked, for quite some time, with a priest about the work of James McClendon. Even as a committed Episcopal, he appreciated Anabaptist theology. This also reminds of the radio interview that Jarrod McKenna did in which another proponent for Anabaptist theology and practice was an Anglican. Or the N.T. Wright lectures to an emerging church group where he says that he finds it odd that many young people attracted to his writing have ecclesiological ties to Anabaptism yet he is an Anglican bishop "living in a castle." Many of the people that I've been tracking with for 7 years or so lead communities that look and feel like churches tied to Free Church traditions. Yet, many of us appreciate and follow liturgical traditions such as praying the hours, the Lectionary, celebrating Eucharist/Lord's Table at each meeting, etc. And there are now prayer books coming from "low church" traditions such as the Missio Dei Breviary and the Anabaptist Prayer Book. At one time, this would have seemed odd for the melding of such different traditions. But it doesn't seem to be the case any longer. It used to be "either/or" but it seems more frequent to be "both/and" today. This certainly has something to do with our culture and this particular point in history. But it also says something about the meaning of denominations and traditions. And it says something about the state of the Church as well. And this dialog mostly leaves out the forms of worship that have been developed in recent history among evangelical traditions (which is interesting, but probably a good thing in my opinion)... But I'm interested in what others have to say this morning... What do you think?

Handmade Revolution

Check out Brooke and friends!

Biblical Literacy

The Bible is not easy to read. It can be very intimidating to those that have not had the privilege of someone helping making sense of it. I am strongly influenced by Christian movements and theologies–such as Anabaptism and liberation theology–that have their roots in empowering the every day reader to read, understand and apply Scripture. Our community is interested in increasing our biblical literacy together. So, I'm wondering, what tools and techniques do you think would be helpful for increasing biblical literacy?

Share your thoughts with us in the comments.

you go, james!

Acholi Beads Glimpse: Stepping Stones from James Pearson on Vimeo.

Mennonite Weekly Review article

I wrote an article for Mennonite Weekly Review's Urban Connections column. If you have print copy, it was on page 6 of the latest issue. You can also read it online here. Here's a blurb from it:

"I like Eugene Peterson’s take on John 1:14 in The Message — “The Word became flesh and blood, and moved into the neighborhood.” It adds earthiness to the incarnation.

Today, even in dense urban areas, many of us don’t know our neighbors. We pull up the driveway and into the garage, closing it before we even get out of the car. We do this week in and week out, nodding politely to our neighbors as we drive by.

Though our neighborhoods may not have the sense of community they once did, we do feel we have something in common with our neighbors: an understanding of our common geographical space.

On those rare moments that we do banter with our neighbors, we can talk about the landscape, stores and other neighbors, all the while knowing these people will understand what we are talking about.

That is what lies behind the idea of incarnation. As we seek to be more like Christ, we too incarnate the good news of God in our neighborhoods.

But what does that look like? How does the Word become flesh and blood, and move into my neighborhood — through me?"

Read the rest

Would appreciate your feedback either here or at MWR.

new site design at ec

Have you seen the new site design over at ecclesiacollective.org?! Dang! My man, Dan So did an amazing job giving the EC site a major overhaul. I think he did an amazing job. Go check out Dan over at headsparks* and his review of Tom Sine's The New Conspirators over at the EC site.

Thanks, Dan!

I haven't found a new job yet but I found out last weekend that someone submitted my name to a search committee to be the new Executive Director of Mennonite Church USA. Not sure if it was intended to be a joke but the head of the search committee took it serious enough to get in touch with me. I laughed out loud when he told me why he was calling.

So, to whoever put my name in the bucket, Thanks?!

Matt @ 1000 Teddies exhibit

Matt @ 1000 Teddies exhibit
Originally uploaded by jasonevans.

more on job changes...

Well, I have to say, I am really amazed at how many people took a look at my resume, gave me feedback and even sent me info on possible job opportunities. I'm humbled that anyone cared that much to do that. Thank you! Brad Sargent even gave me edits! A few people told me it was less than flattering. I do have a hard time writing about myself in this way. So, with some coaxing I went back over it and tried to spell out a little more of what I accomplished in the different places I've been. Here's my updated resume.

There are a few things that I have found hard to say in a resume. For example, I don't have a degree in anything yet. (I actually got into Fuller Seminary because Dr. Bolger and others thought my experience qualified me... not my education unfortunately.) But I think my work experience adds up to quite a bit. I am a pretty natural leader. I've been in management positions since I was 18 years old. Most of the time, people working under me have been older and more experience and often more educated than me (not easy, trust me). I've worked in start-ups that have ended up growing and doing well. I've developed strong teams, smooth work processes, as well as educate and empower people enough to get things done. When I've left things didn't skip a beat too much. My leadership style ("leading from behind" is what I call it) has allowed me to kind of work myself out of a job. Which may sound bad in one way, but I think it's a sign of developing a team that works. While in construction, I helped develop a consulting firm. After we built a great team that didn't depend on me for too much any longer, I began helping develop a general contracting division.

When I've been a part of a group that wasn't a new enterprise, I've often been brought on to start new projects for an established company. I've never been intimidated by the unknown in work situations or the lack of credentials to do something. Because of that, I've had the opportunity to work in a few different fields; a bit of a jack-of-all-trades, master-of-none.

So, where does that leave me now? I've interviewed for a few construction consulting firms. Their projects could be really interesting to be on. One seems quite interested but is waiting to see what kind of federal funding comes through.

I was encouraged to apply for a couple church positions with churches in the city. At first, I wasn't interested. After talking to several people I decided to apply anyways. But I think I intimidate the senior leadership. So, I doubt that will happen. This has been a common situation. I've been frank about where I see common church practices headed for years now. Most church leaders don't like to hear this, it threatens their position. I'm not opposed to working with Christian institutions altogether but I am reluctant. It would depend on the situation and their willingness to admit that things needed to change. I am willing to help with that, depending on the right situation.

Another question that has come up is whether we're willing to move. That's a rough one! This is our city. I mean, this place is in our bones! Neither us or our housemates want to sell the house. We have a hunch that we would come back to this place if we ever left. But to be honest, if it was the right job in the right place we would take it into consideration with our community and family. Brooke and I think it would be great for our kids to experience other parts of the country/world. And of course, we would like that for ourselves as well. But the other side of us is very aware of how great a life we have within our circle of friends and family here in this city. A year ago, I would've been concerned about The Collective folding if we weren't around. It would certainly look different but I'm confident it doesn't need us at the helm any more.

Enough rambling! We put up some brief responses to this change on the EC site. Check it out.

changes...

I said a while ago that there was big changes happening. Well, today I sent this out to the Collective's newsletter list:

Friends,
It's been a while since we sent out a newsletter. The reason for the delay was due to some big decisions being made. Last year, Brooke and I committed full time effort towards helping the Collective grow. It has been an amazing season. But like all seasons, this one must end. We have both decided to look for jobs back in the marketplace.

Our decision came through prayer and discussion with others and is based on two things:

• This last year, many capable hands have taken on the initiative and leadership in various areas. We feel quite confident in moving towards a volunteer leadership community. This seems to echo the values we've always had.
• The work of the Collective is unconventional to say the least. And our commitment to long-term changes often do not have the kind of instantaneous results that potential supporters often look for. Fund raising has been difficult and has honestly never quite been enough for us to live on. We hope this change will allow us to put resources into other things we feel are important.

We began looking for new jobs a couple months ago. Through a friend, Brooke found a job in bookkeeping. I've had a few promising interviews but continue to look. Here's a link to my resume. If you know of any opportunities that might be a fit please let me know.

We are deeply appreciative of those that contributed to the Collective over the last year and more. As well, we are grateful to those that have believed in the dream of the Collective and our ability even more than us. Thank you for everything!

The Ecclesia Collective will continue to accept donations. There are projects we plan to keep going, new projects to be started and your contributions are valuable. You can visit our website soon for more information regarding this change. Our updates may continue to be a bit irregular as we get into new routines. Please be patient with us and continue to keep us in your prayers.

We pray your Easter is filled with hopes and dreams for new beginnings.


Paz,
Jason Evans
The Ecclesia Collective

Seriously. If you've got the time, help a brother out and send around the resume or let me know of any thing. Over at the EC blog, we will post a some more information in response to common concerns and questions we've already received later today.

Thanks!

kids stuff

Since the whole family has been home sick this week, we've ended up watching a lot of movies in bed. The kids got to pick out a lot of them. We've really enjoyed several of Hayao Miyazaki's movies-My Neighbor Totoro is amazing! But a series that we all really dig is Pancake Mountain. It's like a dance show meets the Muppets. It's got great humor and good guest bands. Our kids don't get why other kids don't know about this. When they have friends spend the night, they'll often want to watch something in the morning and ours kids will enthusiastically offer up Pancake Mountain. Most other kids just stare at the screen with an odd look on their face. For some reason, our kids love it and so do we. Heck, their theme song is performed by Anti-Flag! Come on! Citizen Video now carries all of them. You should check it out.

To give you a taste, here's The Evens performing "Vowel Movement" on Pancake Mountain:

newest member of the HH

Last night, the Hawthorn House welcomed our little friend, Biruk. Meggan and Tim just returned from Ethiopia where the adopted Biruk. The little guy had a thing for me. So, I had the privilege of playing with him most of the night. He stole my glasses and demanded a photo in exchange for my glasses back. It was really nice outside so, we held our gathering on the patio. We also had our first "dedication." We adapted a prayer from the Celtic Daily Prayer book. It was a beautiful time. We surrounded the family, laying hands on them and several us prayed these prayers over them:

To Be Said By A Friend To Meggan and Tim:
The blessing of Christ
comes to you in this child.
This blessing is mercy
and kindness and joy.
Blessing comes to home
and to family.

To Be Said By A Friend To Biruk:
Welcome, Biruk,
child of love,
God is here to bless you,
And blessed are you,
beyond telling,
to be brought to parents
who love you
and love each other
servants of the great King Jesus.

To Be Said By A Friend To Biruk:
Grow gently, Biruk,
in love of God.
We bless you,
and pray
Christ be near you,
now and each hour
of your life.

To Be Said By All To Biruk:
God be with you
in this your day,
every day and every way,
with you and for you
in this your day,
and the love
and affection
of heaven
be toward you.

To Be Said By A Friend To Biruk:
As a tiny baby your parents cover
and clothe you
in their love
and with their faith.

As you grow
may faith grow with you.
May you find the presence
of Christ your clothing
and protection.
And year by year may the
knowledge of His presence
be greater for you,
that daily you may put on Christ
and walk as His own in the world.

To Be Said By Meggan and Tim:
Biruk,
may God make clear to you each road;
may God make safe to you each step;
should you stumble, hold you;
if you fall, lift you up;
when you are hard pressed with evil,
deliver you –
and bring you at last to His glory.

To Be Said By A Friend To Meggan and Tim:
The blessing of Christ
comes to you in your Biruk;
this blessing is mercy
and kindness and joy.
Blessing comes to home
and to family.

Amen

far on refused

Jonah Matranga (of Far) on the band Refused:

"On the Water and Solutions touring cycle that we were doing, all I would do would be to drag kids into our van, and play them the first five songs off of The Shape Of Punk To Come at full blast and go "no one else ever needs to make a hardcore record." "It's done. It's over. This is as good as it's getting." Of course, hardcore went on for way too many years after that... it's still puttering along. I still hold The Shape of Punk to Come as being the last needed hardcore album. It's just insane. That's my real answer..."

It's true. It is an amazing album that, years later, no one has yet to come close to topping it in hardcore and punk. It's one of those albums that even when people aren't into punk and hardcore, you show it to them and they go, "Wow! That's amazing." The first song I heard off the album was track 6, New Noise. It's still the track I usually play first for people. It defies categories.

Now that I think about it, I think both The Shape Of Punk To Come and Water and Solutions would be on my top ten album list.

You can read the rest of the interview here.

Biruk and I

Biruk and I
Originally uploaded by jasonevans.

alternative education

I've written before, that several of us in San Diego have been reflecting on what it would look like to provide an alternative form of theological development. One that is attainable and attractive to the many rather than the few. (TC Porter has even challenged Bethel Seminary San Diego to reconsider it's role in theological training.) As this conversation has gone on, a couple of books have come up that deal with different approaches to education. First is Paulo Freire's Pedagogy of the Oppressed. When my housemate, Matt, read over what Allelon is doing with their training centers he encouraged me to read Freire. The recommendation has come from several others as well. You can read a segment of the book online here.The other recommendation has been Ivan Illich's Deschooling Society. You can read Illich's book online for free here. This book was recommended quite a bit when I asked what I should read by Illich. I started reading Deschooling Society last night when we got home late from my parents' and Matt was having trouble sleeping with a cough.  What stands out in chpt. 1 so far is this: The failure of contemporary education is that it commonly convinces us that learning it isolated to one environment: school. Disabling the public to discern learning opportunities within the other aspects of life. Illich writes, "Work, leisure, politics, city living, and even family life depend on schools for the habits and knowledge they presuppose, instead of becoming themselves the means of education." He is critiquing public education in the U.S. While I'm not yet convinced about the public school system, I certainly see the truth of this within theological training. We commonly have a limited imagination of how theology works with our everyday lives. It seems to me we are a missing a 'give-and-take' relationship betwen theology and context. Context should inform theology and theology should inform context. But our current tactics–from Sunday school to seminary–often do not provide the tools to do this. How might this change?

Happy Birthday, Dad!

Driving up to the San Bernardino mountains today to celebrate my Dad's birthday with him... Pray that he behaves! Just kidding, Dad... kinda.

So, I've been back behind the drums for several months now. Every Tuesday, the three of us that now make Snake Babies get together to practice. We've recycled a few songs from our collective past, worked on covers by AC/DC and Depeche Mode, but the best are the songs we've been writing lately. I'm really pleased and can't wait to play them live. We're hoping to be ready to record some stuff within the near future. Casper is a witty lyricist and the song titles alone are just awesome: "Manther" (yes, we have a song about a part man, part panther), "Face Made For a Mustache" (speaks for itself, I think it's referring to Gregor), "My Heart Is A Lonely Hunter" (I don't know what that means, but it just sounds cool), etc.

ivan illich

So, I've now had two recommendations to read Ivan Illich. I've not read any of his books yet. And Doulos Christou Books is now making, The Church, Change and Development available for free! What have you read by Illich? Good? Bad?

tattoos

Ever since I got my 'Elpida' tattoo and touch up on the 'Zion' on my wrist by the good man, Jeremiah Griswold at Mother's Tattoo during our road trip, I've been itching for more (... road trips and tattoos). After scrimping and saving for a few years now, I've finally saved up some cash to go get some ink by Rob Benavides over at Flying Panther Tattoo. Rob and I sat down last week to plan out my upper right arm. We're working with themes from Isaiah 61. I already have a heart sown together (v.1). Rob will be adding a crown (v.3), a broken lock (v.1) and an oil flask (v.3). That's what we're starting with. My Zion and Elpida tree tattoos fit in nicely with images from this passage as well (v.3). All of these have double meanings for me beyond the Isaiah passage, which is cool too. I'm hoping to talk about more work by Rob in the future. We have a print by Rob in our house (on the right). I've really dug his work for a long time and am super excited.