Embracing Curiosity at St. Paul’s UMC, Wilmington DE: The Heart of Fresh Expressions
At St. Paul’s UMC, we’re not content to be just a community; we’re praying to become a Fresh Expression movement! At the heart of our mission is a profound yet simple desire: Be Curious, Not Judgmental.
This guiding principle is crucial as we embark on our Fresh Expressions journey, fostering an environment where curiosity thrives and judgment dissipates.
Why Curiosity Matters at St. Paul’s
Curiosity is more than just an interest. It’s the engine of growth and the bridge to really understanding one another.
In the busy lives of people in Wilmington, DE, where diverse thoughts and experiences abound, St. Paul’s UMC encourages us to be curious.
Why? Because when we replace judgment with curiosity, we open doors—to learning, connection, and spiritual growth.
Fresh Expressions of Faith
At St. Paul’s, Fresh Expressions isn’t just a program—it’s meant to be a way of life for many of us.
It’s about stepping beyond the church walls and engaging with the community in innovative and transformative ways. Whether it’s a pop-up church in a coffee shop, a bible study in the local park, or a community service project, these expressions are fueled by a curiosity to meet people right where they are, just as they are.
How to Be Curiously Engaged Without Being Judgmental
Being curious without being judgmental might sound challenging, but it’s surprisingly simple—and incredibly rewarding. Here are a few tips to get started:
- Ask Open-Ended Questions: Encourage dialogue that opens up rather than shuts down conversations. Ask questions like, “What’s your story?” or “How do you feel about that?” These questions invite deeper interaction and understanding.
- Listen Actively and Empathetically: Listening is an art that requires us to be fully present. Listen not just with the intent to reply, but with the intent to really understand.
- Embrace Diverse Perspectives: Every person you meet knows something you don’t. Value the beauty of experiences and insights that others bring to the table. As we do, new levels of safety and trust begin to take shape.
- Reflect Before Reacting: It’s easy to form quick opinions, but true curiosity requires pause. Reflect on your reactions and consider why you think the way you do.
Join Us on This Curious Journey
St. Paul’s UMC in Wilmington, DE, invites you to join our vibrant community as we explore what it means to live out our faith through Fresh Expressions. Whether you’re a lifelong member or just beginning to explore spiritual paths, your curiosity is welcome and celebrated here.
Be willing to take a deeper dive into the beautiful, complex, and endlessly fascinating world we all share.
Whether its a conversation with a family member, time with friends over dinner, or a Sunday School class discussion, let’s make curiosity a cornerstone of the community we build together.
Let’s find ways to listen, learn, love one another so we have the opportunity to discover things to appreciate afresh and new.
After all, when we are curious, we can’t be judgmental—and what a freeing, grace-filled way to live!