The Importance of Face to Face Faith Formation by the Rev. Dr. David Anderson
“Night and day we pray most earnestly that we may see you face to face and restore whatever is lacking in your faith” 1 Thessalonians 3:10
For more than 30 years this verse has been a central example of the first of Five Principles of Faith Formation at Milestones Ministry, “Faith is formed by the power of the Holy Spirit through personal, trusted relationships—often in our own homes.” Second and Third John both conclude with a rather stylized ending that states, “I have much to write to you, but I would rather not write with pen and ink, instead I hope to see you soon, and we will talk together face to face” (3 John 13-14).
Both the communities that followed Paul’s missionary leadership and those of John have this familiarity with faith formation through “face to face” contact. Both see personal contact as vitally important to the Christian faith. Whether it is the technology of two thousand years ago using pen and ink or the technology of today, it is hard to beat face to face contact to nurture the Christian faith.
In today’s world, the very tools to connect us, such as smart phones and tablets, sometimes get in the way of those “face to face” encounters that bless us over time. It is not surprising that Australia has a new law banning social media before the age of 16!
What a joy it can be to be face to face with our children and grandchildren, have caring conversations, and reflect on Bible readings.
What a joy it can be to be face to face with our children and grandchildren, have caring conversations, and reflect on Bible readings.
Milestones Ministry 