| The
Gospel of Luke relates the story of Christ joining two friends
on the road from Jerusalem to Emmaus, walking together and
sharing their heart's deepest concerns. The risen Christ walks
with them and explains the scriptures: how it was ordained
that Christ should suffer and so enter his glory. The illuminating
climax of this heart warming experience comes when Christ
takes bread and blesses it, he then breaks it and gives it
to them. At that moment, the eyes of the two are opened, they
recognize him as the risen Christ, and they rush back to Jerusalem
to tell the others. (Luke 24:13-35)
The
above story provides the image for the Walk to Emmaus, an
Upper Room program that calls forth and restores Christian
discipleship. The Walk to Emmaus, a three day experience,
takes a New Testament look at Christianity as a lifestyle.
The highly structured weekend is designed to strengthen and
invigorate the faith of Christian people, and through them,
their families, their congregations, and the world in which
they live. Emmaus combines the efforts of laity and clergy
to renew the church.
What
is the purpose? Emmaus
exists to develop Christian leaders for the local church and
the world. The approach seriously considers the model of Christ's
servanthood and encourages Christ's disciples to act in ways
appropriate to being "a servant of all."
Where
does it take place? The
North Indiana Emmaus Community, comprised of Christians
from a variety of churches in our area, provides a place,
leadership, and all the support necessary to conduct the Walk
to Emmaus weekend.
How
do I attend? A
person who has experienced the Walk to Emmaus sponsors you.
This frees you from any personal responsibilities that might
distract you while on the experience, and undergirds your
72 hour experience with prayer and other expressions of God's
love.
What
happens after? Cleopas and his companion immediately
returned to tell other disciples about their encounter with
Christ. A regular, on going time of sharing together our journey
with Christ is part of the follow-up to the experience. A
monthly Gathering open
to all encourages discipleship. Reunion
groups are open to all persons wanting to grow in accountability
for their relationship with Christ.
From
the Upper Room
The Upper Room Walk to Emmaus®
P.O. Box 189 • Nashville, Tennessee
37202
1.615.340.7227 • www.upperroom.org/emmaus
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