Discussion Questions:
- What is the mission of the Border Church, and how does it attempt to embody God’s love in a place of division?
- How did Friendship Park and the Border Church originally begin, and what significance does the park hold for families on both sides of the border?
- How has the increasing militarization and physical transformation of the border (with higher walls and more restrictions) affected the ministry and worship practices of the Border Church?
- Seth Clark describes the church as “very interdenominational and more missional.” How does this unique structure impact leadership and decision-making within the Border Church?
- What have been some of the biggest challenges and adaptations the Border Church has had to make since losing access to Friendship Park on the US side?
- Discuss the emotional journey—frustration, anger, loss, and awe—that Seth shared as both a pastor and participant in this ministry. How might these emotions shape spiritual leadership?
- How does the concept of ‘ministry of presence’ play a role at the border, especially when concrete solutions to challenges (e.g., family separation) are difficult or impossible to provide?
- Seth talks about the difference between seeking the fruits of success versus the fruits of faithfulness in ministry. What do you think he means by this, and how can it apply to leadership in general?
- How does the fluid and unpredictable nature of life at the border prepare the Border Church community for change, compared to more traditional church settings?
- What lessons can other church leaders and faith communities learn from the experiences of the Border Church when facing disruption, change, or loss?
