Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God—what is good and acceptable and perfect. (Romans 12:2)

Dear brothers & sisters in Christ,

Grace and peace to you from God our Father and Jesus Christ the Lord and Savior. Amen.

Breaking down the etymology of the phrase ‘transformed community’ provides us with this insight: A ‘transformed community’ is a group of individuals who together move beyond their current identity.

Transformed: adjective form of the past tense of the verb ‘to transform’

trans-: prefix from the Latin preposition trāns meaning across or beyond (on the other side of)

form: from the Latin noun forma meaning Form, shape, beauty

Community: a unified body of individuals

Com-: prefix from the Latin preposition cum meaning ‘with’ or ‘together’

Munus: (from the Latin) a service, office, employment

‘Transformed community’ is a function of the Holy Spirit. The Spirit changes us as individuals & communities into the image of Christ in order that we serve as His Body here on earth. Our campers experienced this as cabin groups, program groups, & a parish group this past month. They experienced how God changes communities and individuals – calling us together into one. They now return into their congregational, school, family communities bringing an awareness of God’s transforming power in those communities.

This transformation is ongoing. God is continually transforming each of you into faithful, loving children of God – calling you together into ‘transformed communities.’ By His power you are made new; your communities, many and varied, are made new. The grace and peace of God which surpasses all understanding keep your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Amen.

In Christ,

Pastor Carla

Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good;  love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honor. Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer.  Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers. (Romans 12:9-13)