Ties to Other Bodies
With
denominational connections tenuous, we are intentional about creating
networks of spiritual support and mutual counsel. There are significant
relationships in less formal ways with other Mennonite groups and the
larger Christian community in Germantown. Among these, we value our
connections through:
Supportive Congregations Network (SCN)
A network of Mennonite and Church of the Brethren congregations who
openly affirm and welcome gay, lesbian, and bisexual people to
participate actively in all aspects of congregational life. SCN is a
program of The Brethren/Mennonite Council for Lesbian & Gay
Concerns (BMC) founded in 1976.
MennoNeighbors
MennoNeighbors is an informal
though valuable group of congregations and individuals along the East
coast. We find unity on urban issues as well as greater intimacy and
freedom for discernment than is possible in more formal denominational
settings. Our purpose is to provide mutual support and counsel to
congregations, church employees, and concerned individuals connected
with the reorganization of Mennonite denominations in North America.
"We don't make statements; we listen", is how one put it.
Northwest Interfaith Network
This local
organization builds a more just and sensitive community through
advocacy and service for families, children, and senior citizens in
Germantown, Mt. Airy and Chestnut Hill.
Germantown Avenue Crisis Ministry
Germantown
Avenue Crisis Ministry provides support for families and individuals in
transition by helping with housing and job needs. Our congregation
collects a food offering each Sunday for the food pantry located at
First Presbyterian Church of Germantown.
Kingdom Builders
An informal gathering of all the
Mennonite churches in Philadelphia for pastors’ prayer fellowship, an
annual picnic, and other citywide worship events. Leonard Dow, Pastor
of the Oxford Circle Mennonite Church provides leadership to the group
along with Freeman Miller, Bishop for Lancaster Conference churches in
Philadelphia.