Why I Do Care Who the Next GC President Is
by Carsten Thomsen | 12 July 2025 |
I do care, because his pastoral role and values herald an important example to all current and prospective members.
I care, because that example should tear down barriers, heal old wounds, and reset expectations about a new, welcoming church.
I care, because that example should take a vital first step of reforming the church that confesses its failings, asks for forgiveness, and open-heartedly welcomes all who have felt turned away.
I care, because I long to see hundreds of “condemned” and “disenfranchised” friends and family be “shocked” by a truly revived church, re-opening its doors to all committed to Christ.
I care, because I am harmed by the tension between the church mandating my personal beliefs in details that conflict with deep-felt convictions. Instead, I long for freedom to grow in Christ.
I care, because my personal integrity is at stake. I struggle with my honesty and credibility, while trying to ignore, yet indirectly accept, the narrow-minded and excluding messages from church leaders.
I care, because I respect the integrity of the young longing for baptism in Christ, but who cannot violate their conscience by accepting all the detailed requirements of the church.
I care, because outward mission begins with internal renovation: tearing down walls of distrust and condemnation and re-building with open doors and the light of God’s grace streaming through its windows.
I care, because I dream of a renewed church, where sincere believers in Christ commit to baptism, united in a supporting fellowship, sharing their respective spiritual journeys.
The new president has a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to boldly set a pivotal example, in words and actions, shaping a church that embraces a new identity and new spirit, permeated by the love of Christ.
Carsten Thomsen is a retired engineer, who is a member in the Nærum church in Denmark.
