A Word from Ray - June
Since 2012, TFC has offered resources such as pastoral support, church consulting, and gatherings focused on renewal and mission. We have encouraged theological education, leadership development, and spiritual vitality. Through national and regional events, we have provided space for encouragement, prayer, and collaboration among churches navigating a rapidly changing cultural and ecclesial landscape.
The Fellowship’s impact is seen in our emphasis on covenant relationships—mutual accountability, shared mission, and collaborative ministry. We call churches to go beyond institutional loyalty and to ask deeper questions about what it means to be faithful in a post-Christendom context. Many of our member congregations have revitalized their ministries, launched new worshiping communities, and deepened their local and global outreach.
In essence, TFC represents a movement of reform and renewal from within. Rooted in Reformed theology and a high view of Scripture, we have sought to reimagine the life of the church for the 21st century—anchored in Christ, guided by the Holy Spirit, and devoted to mission in the world.
We are again experiencing a renewed interest in the Fellowship Community, as we field calls in the wake of the Olympia Overture.
In the weeks following the affirming votes of the amendments originally passed at General Assembly, we have seen a noticeable increase in calls and inquiries from congregations seeking support, clarity, and fellowship. The amendments, which added explicit protections for sexual orientation and gender identity in the Book of Order and introduced new ordination conversation requirements, have sparked a mix of responses across the denomination.
For many conservative congregations, the amendments raise pressing questions about conscience, theological diversity, and the future of their ministry within the PC(USA). In response, churches are reaching out to us, not necessarily to leave the denomination, but to find solidarity and guidance as they navigate this shifting ecclesial landscape.
“We’re hearing from pastors and elders who feel isolated or unsure of how to lead faithfully in this moment…They’re not all planning to leave, but they are looking for a space where their convictions are respected and their ministries supported.”
We have long championed missional renewal, theological integrity, and covenantal relationships, while providing a network where churches can remain connected, resourced, and encouraged without compromising our theological conscience. In this season, TFC has become a critical bridge for congregations who desire to stay rooted in our Reformed tradition while wrestling with these contemporary challenges.
It has become abundantly clear that PC(USA) churches are navigating a complex landscape as they respond to the recently passed overtures. As more churches look for partners in discernment, our role as a relational and theological support system is once again coming to the forefront—offering a hopeful and steady presence for churches committed to faithfulness in an evolving denomination.
Pastor Ray Garcia
Ray Garcia is pastor of Roxborough Church in Philadelphia, PA and serves as The Fellowship Community’s Coordinator for Connections and Recruitment.