Resources for This Mission Study
God's People in an Urban Culture
Note: These materials are no longer available for purchase. Check your church, district, or conference libraries for the books, magazines, and video tapes. The complete videos also can be viewed online.
The massive move of people to the city and the city's environs has created many new issues for faith and faithful people.
What is urban culture and what is our faithful response?
If urbanization is one of the largest and most complex social changes of our time, how can we put this movement into focus?
How can we look at theological perspectives on the city and become familiar with the church in the city?
Essentials
- New World Outlook Special Issue on God's People in an Urban Culture, January-February 2000.
Two complete articles from this issue are online:- "Introduction" by Elliott Wright, (photos or plain text)
- "The Vision of Shalom" for the City by Kinmoth W. Jefferson, (photos or plain text)
- Response Special Issue on God's People in an Urban Culture, April 2000.
One complete article from this issue is online:
Leader's Guide to God's People in an Urban Culture. By Elmira Nazombie, Zrosangela Oliveira and David Wildman.
This Guide is based on the articles in special issues of New World Outlook and Response magazines on the theme. It is designed to help study leaders engage group members in constructive dialogue around the magazine articles, then guide them in reflection, prayer and action. Structured for five sessions, it offers alternative time frames and study settings.
Audiovisual
Journeys of the Spirit: God's People in an Urban Culture.
The city is many places and many different people in our country, This video gives us a look at U.S. urbanization while reviewing the Urban Ministries of The United Methodist Church. Issues such as immigration and homelessness as well as rich cultural diversity and building strong families in the city will be seen through the lens of United Methodist mission in action. View the complete video online.
Youth Material
Streetwise in Corinth: Paul's Letters to an Urban Congregation. (#2874) By Harriette D. Cross.
A new resource for youth, this guide is intended for middle school and senior high United Methodists. It offers a look at the ancient cities of Jerusalem, Rome, and the port of Corinth to raise issues of urban life and faith and see parallels for our time.
There are activities and stories which draw young people into thoughtful discussion concerning the ethical issues raised by Paul in his letters to the church in Corinth.