Page 1 - 2026 February / March Newsletter

Southern Pennsylvania District

Church of the Brethren

Who Does the Work of the Church?

Who does the work of the church? (Hint: it's all of us)
Many denominations, including the Church of the Brethren, are
experiencing a clergy shortage. At the same time, many congrega-
tions are trending smaller and struggling to keep full-time clergy.
These are difficult times for many congregations, and yet there is
still reason to be hopeful. Paul reminds us that God can work all
things out for good purposes when we depend on God’s love
(Romans 8:28).

One of the unintended consequences of smaller congregations
and more part-time clergy is that we are returning to an important
CONTENTS aspect of our faith heritage – the priesthood of all believers. This
theological term originally was a reminder that we need no priest to

intercede on our behalf. In Christ, all believers have equal access to
Message Pg. 1 God. For the Brethren, however, we have historically taken this one
———————————
step further. Yes, we can have a personal relationship with God, but
District Info Pgs. 2-4 we also remember that every baptized Christian is called to minister
______________________ to others, not just clergy.

Upcoming Events Pgs. 5-6
______________________ There are many ways to be in ministry, utilizing the gifts and
skills God has given the people in our congregations. This is why
District News Pgs. 7-13 Paul writes to the Ephesians, “He himself granted that some are
______________________ apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers to equip the

Learning Opportunities saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ,
CEU’s Pgs. 14-16 until all of us come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of
——–————————— the Son of God, to maturity, to the measure of the full stature of

Ministry News Pgs. 17-21 Christ” (4:11-13). These are gifts from God to build up the body of
_______________________
Christ, which reminds us of two things: 1) they are freely given, and
while they likely come naturally, it is still true that we can cultivate
them and grow into them more; and 2) they were meant to be used
for Christ and his church. How might your congregation cultivate

the gifts and skills of the many people who contribute to the work of

FEB/MARCH the church in the coming year?
2026
Shared by: Audrey Hollenberg-Duffey, Director
Susquehanna Valley Ministry Center