At Park Ave., we believe that the work of creating a more just and loving world belongs to us all. Our calling is not only to resist patriarchal, white supremacist power structures, but to co-create along with the spirit of God, new systems. One way we embody this is in having a Pastoral Circle instead of a "Senior" or "Lead" Pastor. In this non-hierarchical model, our pastors share leadership and preaching responsibilities.

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Our Deacons, Committee Conveners & Interns are a large part of the leadership of this diverse community. We seek to have many voices at the table; prioritizing lived experience.

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We function as a space where we receive criticism without defensiveness. White supremacist cultural characteristics allows for defensiveness, but in a circle model, critique is the main way we learn to grow into a spirit of more openness. 

 

We have an open pulpit. This model of shared preaching reflects the diversity of our congregation, the giftedness of our congregation, the depth of our community and our commitment to value and listen to every voice. It's different, we know, and it can take some getting used to, so please ask questions, share your voice, as you get to know our pastors.

 

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