Oral Roberts University and Open Source Software make an odd combination in a sentence (or even by themselves, for that matter), and even more so as an introduction to thoughts on “Why I’m Presbymergent.” Still, here’s my story:

I grew up Methodist (by the way, how come they get Superman, and all we get is Reverend Craig?) and somehow wound up at ORU for my undergraduate studies. It was a little bit of a culture shock. While some in the emergent community are slowly emerging from evangelicalism, I jumped in, jumped out, and then ran away fast. Too fast. After serving almost singlehandedly as His Majesty’s Loyal Opposition (to ORU Pres. Richard Roberts, televangelist and heir to Oral) for several years, I graduated and retreated back to the safety of traditional, mainline and somewhat liberal protestantism. Whenever I visited a church, my litmus test for approval was “Do they sing hymns accompanied solely by piano or organ?” This led me, of course, to Presbyterianism, which I embraced — joining a PCUSA New Church Development and the only Presbyterian church in our suburb of Frisco, Tx.

Later, as a high school English teacher in Dallas, I was frustrated (mostly with Microsoft, which is ironic considering the aims of the B&MG Foundation) trying to get software and computer access to inner-city kids whose families couldn’t afford it. I discovered Open-Source Software, which is so much more than software — it’s a movement. The emphasis on transparency, community, and social justice appealed to me. Sound familiar? It wasn’t long before I discovered (via the usual suspects: McLaren, Rollins, Pagitt, etc.) a theology that matched my growing philosophy. I am as passionate about what Emergent can do for the Kingdom of God as I am about what Open Source can to for the worlds of information, music, art, and education.

In a marriage, partners grow and change — sometimes drastically — in the course of a lifetime. Often, it causes difficulty and tension, but it’s not cause to abandon the relationship and find a new one. Change presents an opportunity for unconditional love. For this reason, though I am greatly changed, I remain with the church and denomination that I love and have committed myself to. In fact, this change and renewal has recently prompted me to take things to a higher level of commitment: pursuit of ordained ministry in the PCUSA.

Oral Roberts once held large revivals throughout the mid-west, under the roof of a circus-tent. There’s a metaphor in there somewhere, and I hope that we, as Presbymergents, can inhabit it: a revival that brings healing to a hurting world, a big tent where all are welcome, and a bit of a circus, too.

A strength I perceive in the Emergent community is the value it places on open and thoughtful conversation. And when I look at the PCUSA, I see a people who value action and engagement with the global community. As a Presbymergent, I love both of these things.

I hope that as this community of evolves, we can combine what is best in our two worlds – and back our thoughtful words with thoughtful actions and practices. That may not always be easy in an online community where we don’t see each other (or those who might benefit from our actions) face to face, but could take the simple form of an occasional call to support a worthy cause or two with our combined skills, voices, finances, and hands.

I’m grateful for this place where we can share our thoughts and ideas with each other. Let’s share that and more with the world, while we’re at it. Any Suggestions?