These words are part of the refrain from the song "Are We The Waiting" recorded by the popular band Green Day. The CD notes want listeners to know the song was written on Easter Sunday.
The words "Are we we are" may be grammatically awkward, but they reflect a tension that was expressed by the young Presbyterians I consulted in preparation for this article.
Are we we are – expresses question and affirmation together.
Are we we are – holds the tension of perplexity and proclamation.
I asked my consultants a quick, two-part question that I hoped would prompt some honest responses, "In your experience and understanding, what's right with the church and what's wrong with the church?" Their reactions were surprisingly consistent.
What's wrong? Not enough diversity of people; youth group has too many games and superficial stuff and not enough meaning; we know the children's story is for the little kids but it's the thing we relate to most; not sure where we fit in; there is a reluctance to deal with issues relevant to youth.
What's right? Communion – because it's sacred; emphasis on mission; older people are supportive of youth initiatives; when ministers don't just tell the same bible story the same way but they take a different angle on it; church is a place to learn about faith because we go to public school; people know me and love me there; even if they don't know me they welcome me; everybody believes in Jesus Christ.
The comments enlightened me to some things I needed to hear and raised insights about belonging, and a desire for depth.
There is a sense of belonging to a faith community where youth are recognized, respected and valued. We are known and welcomed is the affirmation. However, often in worship and programming they fill in a forgotten void between the majority who are older adults, and the children. In what ways are we really part of this community?
Are we finding openness to our questions of faith? Are we encouraged to dig deep and grow in our understanding of who God is in our lives and in the lives of others? Are we just here to play games and be entertained? We are moved by the sacred acts and symbols of Christian faith. We are disciples of Jesus. We are responsive to challenging and interesting preaching. We are appreciative of other ages and stages who also seek depth of meaning in their religious experience.
Are we we are – invites both questions and certainties. Our questions, and even our doubts, are important components of a living, growing spirituality. As well as posing our questions it is vital for us to call to mind and heart the convictions we hold. It's the we are part of the refrain. The affirmations of our faith come to us in scripture, in our experience of the work and life of the church in the world, in our relationships with family and friends. These things of God we know to be true are very important for us to remember. We are God's people. We are wonderfully and beautifully made. We are loved and able to love others. We are called to acts of compassion and justice. We are part of the church of Jesus Christ.
Are we we are. The song holds the tension of question and proclamation. So does a living faith. The song was written on Easter Sunday. For us, younger and older, that day holds the promise that despite our questions, God breaks through with certainty that, in the words of another song, "We are God's people of which the Lord is head, called to obey him, now risen from the dead; he wills us be one family, diverse yet truly one: oh let us freely give our gifts, and so shall God's work on earth be done."
Peace,
M. Jean Morris.
