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2008-12-16 issue:

A seat at the table

by Jessica Schrock-Ringenberg, Bryan, Ohio

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As a young adult, I appreciate Justin James King’s “modest proposal” for intergenerational table talk (“A Seat at the Table,” Nov. 18). However, the issue is not whether we young adults have been invited to the table but whether or not we value or understand the table to which we have already been invited. Often the structures and processes in which we have been invited to participate do not leave us feeling empowered or heard, and I dare say it is not unique to the young adult situation. I venture to guess our racial-ethnic brothers and sisters have the same frustration, with good reason.

However, I do not think the responsibility is or should entirely be left to the denomination to resolve.
We young adults should move beyond our frustrations and engage the structures we have. We are here to serve with the church (warts and all), not to be served by the church. If we want change, then we have to endure the suffering of laborious conference meetings and budget discussions long enough to make ourselves known and heard.

Associated Issue: Young adults committed to the church - Nov. 18, 2008

Associated Article: A seat at the table

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