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2007-11-20 issue:

Being on margins can be prophetic

by Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary

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ELKHART, Ind.—Mennonites and Pentecostals have perspectives in common, Cheryl Bridges Johns told students and faculty of Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary (AMBS) on her recent visit as Theological Center Guest.

From Oct. 16-18, the Pentecostal theologian had opportunities to extend her interfaith dialogue as she met with AMBS students and faculty. Johns is professor of discipleship and Christian formation at Church of God Theological Seminary in Cleveland, Tenn. She serves in the Church of God-Mennonite Dialogue as well as in dialogues with several other Christian groups, including Roman Catholics and evangelicals.

She believes she is called to be on the margins, because “marginality in many ways can be a place of grace,” she said. “It is often to the center that it can bring words that are fresh and prophetic.” She also said, “Possibilities of new partnerships are found on the margins.”
Noting that Mennonites also are on the margins of mainstream Christian denominations, she said, “We are different in many ways but we also are alike. … At a time when Christianity itself is becoming marginalized, we can offer to our brothers and sisters what it means to be marginal and thrive, what it means to have a prophetic witness. Sometimes that is where the creative spirit does her most profound work."—AMBS

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