There is an improv technique often used in which a person acknowledges what was said by saying “Yes”, then building on it, starting with the word “And”. It acknowledges and affirms the truth of the initial statement–yet, indicates that there is more. This sense of multiple truths and numerous possibilities is one that I believe is essential for ministry. Ministry is multifaceted and God is always at the same time and in the same place, doing multiple things in the midst of it. In the story of the wedding at Cana, found in John 2, servants came to work expecting an ordinary day, but instead experienced a miracle. The head of the banquet, who wanted wine and received it, had no idea that a miracle occurred. Our classrooms resemble this: places where multiple levels of learning happen each week because each student arrives having had a different journey to get to this place.
Most recently the 43rd Frank B. Mitchell Jr. Lectureship, “Repairing the Breach, Restoring the Streets: The Academy And the Church Working Together” reminded us that there is no single answer to how to do ministry in the 21st century. Ministry calls for multiple approaches and responses. We can say “Yes” to the wonderful ways in which the church has made a difference in the past “And” we can explore the new things that God would have us try today. That has been the mission of Palmer for almost one hundred years.. As this community strives to share ‘the whole gospel for the whole world through whole persons’ through many diverse methods, may we always be able to say “Yes” to what works in one place and time followed by “And” for what will work in the next. May this be a YES-AND season for you.
About the Author
The Rev. Dr. Marsha Brown Woodard, emphasizing the empowerment of individuals, particularly African American clergywomen, through her ministry and scholarly work on internalized oppression, views the Church as a transformative space for growth to emulate Jesus, fostering a culture of inquiry and education despite challenging questions.