Biblical Foundations for Narratives of Hope A Workshop with The Rev. Dr. Patricia Dutcher-Walls Moderator of the 2024 General Assembly How might biblical stories in which hope is inspired for God’s people lay a foundation for our own stories of hope and possibility? This participatory workshop, designed for both clergy and lay leaders, will start by considering tales of hope from the Bible. How do Jesus’ words and actions impart hope? How does the Spirit lead the church toward hopefulness? Then we will explore ways to find parallels in these ancient tales of hope for our congregations today. What do these narratives teach us about hope in the midst of challenging times for the church? How might we take inspiration from our biblical traditions to help discern possibilities for our future? How might our listening to these stories and each other engage our spiritual imagination in the service of our faithfulness and future as God’s people? This workshop is designed to complement the project undertaken this year by the Assembly Council through its Working Group on Narratives of Hope and Possibility. The Working Group has been tasked to consider stories of hope and possibility to help the church imagine, learn and act in ways that could lead to renewal, transformation and vitality for congregations, presbyteries and national agencies. This good work is not just the responsibility of the Working Group, but rather an encouragement to all of us to participate - thus this workshop for congregations and presbyteries. Introductory talk Small discussion groups & short break Feedback from the groups Total time: 3 hours RSVP: https://rsvp.church/r/qoJQaCg5