These are the last few paragraphs of a new letter addressing Family "Leave-Takers", as those of us who have left the Family are now called. (Why do I resent this title...?)
Some "unfaithful" Family members, fifth columns in their own ranks, provided me with the material. They even work in a selah unit as part of WS.
If there is interest, I'll post the whole thing (GN) here in a separate post.
Let me know, OK?
Inclusive mindsets 98. (Peter:) Mama and I are very excited about the wonderful promises that the Lord has given us about the Family's future—one of greater fruitfulness, expanded membership, and a greater ability to reach the world with His love and truth. We have a lot to look forward to!
99. In order to achieve that, we have to get on board with the new program the Lord has given us, which hinges on building a more inclusive culture, creating an environment that is conducive to expanded membership, networking with others, and broadening our social networks. In short, making room for others in our lives, in our fellowship, and in our Homes. That's the direction for today and the future, and it pivots on our being more accepting and welcoming of others—including those who have chosen a different lifestyle or career than ours.
100. We've made a lot of progress over the past 15 years in our attitudes toward leave-takers. Nevertheless, the thread of old thinking still runs through our mindsets and attitudes. We need to do our part to build bridges with those who are no longer a part of our fellowship, and make allowance for those who want to build a life outside the Family to maintain friendships, to stay in fellowship or some level of membership or participation in the mission, if they so choose.
101. Every person who decides to pursue a career other than full- or part-time service in the Family should have the choice of continuing to consider the Family their "church" and to participate in our mission work, if they so desire. Their career choices, as far as we're concerned, should be about what they feel led to do with their lives, what interests they want to pursue, and how they personally feel led to invest their time, and not necessarily be attached to their faith. They should feel that regardless of the career choices they make, they can still be part of our fellowship or consider themselves part of the Family if they so choose.
102. We need to work together to create an environment that is welcoming and accepting of those who choose to retire from the Family or to pursue another course in life. Let's find ways to make their transition smooth and successful, to help to provide for their needs, both physical and emotional, and to do what we can to ensure that they continue to feel welcome and a part of the Family in whatever way they choose, even if simply on a friendship basis. Let's do our part to draw in our leave-takers and make room at our hearth for these friends and family.
