inter::mission 2007-2008

The 2007-2008 school year was a great time to experiment, explore new pathways, and learn from one another. We had a number of quality experiences together, and we’re really enjoying the time a lot.

A few of the highlights of our year were related to our teach-ins, our family meals, some events, and our preparation for this year’s culture project. Read on.

The Teach-Ins

We had a number of guests, sharing on a wide range of topics. It’s always a great time of discussion with our guests – we’ve had lively conversations. Here’s a list of past and future speakers that continue to shape the inter::mission experience.

• Karen Ward, abbess/vicar of Church of the Apostles, in Fremont.
  • Shared about new monasticism in the neighborhood of Fremont, and how Church of the Apostles embodies their values in some very unique ways.
• Mike Gunn, pastor of Harambee Church in Renton.
  • Shared about how the story of God, in Jesus shapes culture, and how culture can shape that story (in good and bad ways).
• Ed Park, pastor of Sanctuary Church in Capitol Hill.
  • Shared about how spiritual formation works in the lives of those who follow Jesus.
• Jon Sharpe, Executive Director of the Center for Global Urban Leadership
  • Shared about the impacts of globalization on cities and cultures, and the need for reconciliation and active theologies for our cities.
• Rose Madrid-Swetman, co-pastor of Vineyard Community Church in Shoreline
  • Shared the story of her experiences of God, church leadership, engaging the community through a non-profit organization, and through personal spiritual rhythms.
• Jim Henderson, Executive Director of Off The Map
  • Shared about evangelism in a fresh light. Discussed his experiences of spending time with a lot of different people, around the topic of evangelism and church.
• Tali Hairston, Director of The John Perkins Center, at Seattle Pacific University
  • Shared the story of John Perkins and the Christian Community Development Association, as well as how the Seattle Pacific University community is working to integrate reconciliation (racial, economic, social) into all aspects of their work with students.
• Mustard Seed House.  We took a field trip a couple of miles up the road to The Mustard Seed House, an intentional community of friends in Seattle. They have been living in community for a while now, so it was good for us to see firsthand some folks that are farther down the road than we are.

The Food

We have a lot of fun with our Thursday night “family meals.” Sometimes we go gourmet, sometimes we do comfort food, and sometimes we get our creative juices flowingvwith what we cook. We’re fortunate to have housemates from all over the world, so we enjoy authentic regional foods. Here’s a partial list of the food we’ve enjoyed together:

• Citrus glazed Mahi Mahi
• Turkish Stuffed Eggplant
• Pineapple Fried Rice with Sweet and Sour Chicken
• “Thanksgiving Breakfast,” with pumpkin pancakes, sweet potato home fries, and turkey bacon
• Homestyle Beef Stew
• Chicken Parmesan
• Louisiana Jambalaya
• Poppy Seed Chicken

Events

• International Thanksgiving – we hosted a traditional American Thanksgiving dinner for international students from around the world.
• Concert – we enjoyed the music of The Cobalt Season, along with the poetry of Mark Scandrette

Culture Project

In June 2008, several of us embarked on a learning journey to India. We spent time with a group called Truth Seekers. They work extensively with issues related to the caste system, and its devastating effects on millions throughout that country. In addition to learning about the culture and values of India, we participate in awareness projects to bring attention to the plight of farmers. Thousands of farmers each year commit suicide to escape the oppressive debt and social pressures brought on by caste.  We’re very excited about the opportunity to be a part of important change in our world.