|
 What Is A
Walk To Emmaus?
In Luke 24 we read the story of the risen Christ appearing to two who
were walking from Jerusalem to Emmaus. He explained the Scriptures, and
their hearts were warmed. Their eyes were only fully opened to recognise
Him, when Christ took bread, blessed and broke it, then gave it to them.
Filled with joy they returned to Jerusalem to share the news with the
other disciples.
This story provides the image of Emmaus. The Emmaus movement came to
Southern Africa in 1990 from the United Methodist Church in the USA,
which in turn developed it from the Spanish Roman Catholic Cursillio de
Christiandad (a short course in Christianity) which started in the late
1940’s. The movement is true to Protestant theology, with some Methodist
emphases, but is ecumenical in practice. Emmaus is seeking to find
authentic expression in the cultures of Africa, while retaining the
wealth of Christian experience from other cultures. God is using Emmaus
in Southern Africa to bring reconciliation between races, and renewal to
Christians and their churches.
The Purpose Of Emmaus:
Emmaus aims to inspire, challenge and equip local church members for
Christian action in their homes, churches and places of work. It
provides a means by which we can grow together in love, grace and
servanthood as members of the Body of Christ.
What Happens At Emmaus:
The “Walk to Emmaus” is a 72-hour experience (Thursday to Sunday
evening). This time is spent studying, discussing, worshipping and
living together. Fifteen talks, given by clergy and laity, form the
basis of the discussions and projects. These present the theme of God’s
Grace and how grace comes alive in the Christian Community, and
expresses itself in the world. You will have the opportunity to
celebrate Holy Communion daily, and begin to understand more fully the
presence of Christ in the body of His believers. This is enhanced by the
prayers and acts of love of the supporting community.
What Happens
After A Walk To Emmaus:
One of the primary strengths of Emmaus is the follow up. Your weekend
lasts three days, but you are invited to build on it for the rest of
your life by:
• Expanding your spiritual life through study and congregational
participation.
• Becoming more active as a disciple of Christ in the world through your
home church.
To nurture this discipleship, Emmaus offers specific opportunities:
• A small “Reunion Group” that meets weekly to maintain spiritual
accountability.
• Quarterly Community Gatherings for fellowship and worship.
• Opportunities and training to support and participate in leading
future Walks.
Who Should Go To Emmaus:
Emmaus is for growing Christians who are open to experience the grace
and love of God in new ways through the Christian Community. More
especially, it is for those who will be committed to make a difference
as a result of this experience.
More information at the UpperRoom |
