Emerging Africa

I've been a little scarce over the last few months or so. It's encouraging to meet people who track my online activity and want to know when I'm next writing something - it's easy to forget that I'm able to contribute helpful things and that I'm part of a larger conversation which more and more people are drawn to.

This weekend has also been really encouraging. Nieu Communities hosted a small conversation about what goes on with us in Pretoria North - how we are a particular expression of a way of following Jesus, and how we can journey together with friends, a number of whom joined us at Pangani.

These sorts of conversations have sustained me in my journey, showing me that there are others out there who are asking what it means to follow Jesus now, in South Africa, at this point in our personal and communal stories. One thing is clear after this weekend: these sorts of conversations are vital and life-giving! And so I'm issuing a friendly challenge:

Create a small once-off gathering and invite others to it, it start - and sustain - friendships.

Steve and I are organising a Tshwane Christian bloggers meetup (it's not hard - all something like this needs is a venue and a time...and an invite) - I wonder what sort of meetup you, the reader, would want to organise? Many of you are already involved in communities and churches and conversations, and maybe it's not appropriate to add another meeting to "the list" - so maybe it's something as simple as deciding to meet with a person near you and inviting others to it. Of course, coffee is a must! Or be brave - host a meal! Or go to the beach (grrrr to you Capetonians) or a park or an art gallery (hat tip: Carl Brook). It doesn't really matter what - the point is meeting some companions along the way to hear stories and encourage each other.

Let me know what you're planning :)