I just read this article at New York Magazine about a new cultural trend: grups. (HT: marko ). Basically, these are adults (30 and 40-somethings) who are still following the same cultural trends as teenagers and 20-somethings. (music, dress, activities, etc.) This article raises at least two questions for me:
1) What role does the diminishing generational gap play in the way one ministers to one's context? Particularly a rural context. (Like mine soon to be in rural northern virginia).
2) What does this 'trend' say about what people are looking for in a community of faith? (Christian or not) What does this say about the way they live out their faith as followers of Jesus (if they are followers of Jesus)?
Granted this is just one article talking about a trend they see in New York City, but I do see some of that in the people in my current congregation and its surrounding context in suburban Richmond, VA. Not to mention I can sort of relate to this cultural trend (with the exception to paying $400 for a pair of jeans!) in terms of the music I choose, the clothes I want to wear, the freedom from "the man", etc. How do you relate? What do you think of grups?
1 comment:
Chris,
Maybe I'm a heretic when it comes to generational theory and other "trend analysis" sorts of things I see and hear. I'll let y'all be the judge of that.
Overall, I tend to find the pop sociology cum marketing kind of business that creates labels like "grups" or "GenX" or "Millenial" or "postmodern" etc. interesting and occasionally fun to think about and play with, but only RARELY helpful in starting or developing meaningful Christian community.
What matters anywhere are the facts on the ground, not the trends "in the air." Who is actually where you will be? What actually drives these particular people? Do the "trend lenses" help you see these things better, or do they distort your vision before you ever really get to know these folks? How does the kingdom of God manifest itself among these particular people in your particular place? And where are the opportunities either to improve the manifestation of the kingdom, or, where necessary, remove obstacles to such improved manifestation?
No "trend knowledge" can ever substitute for the face to face relationships with the real people among whom our real God is at work. Maybe, occasionally, it gives some "in" with some folks somewhere. The question is always whether it can give any kind of "in" with the folks among whom you yourself may be called or sent to serve.
Peace in Christ,
Taylor Burton-Edwards
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