Planning a general council "with" and not "for" member churches means developing resources that introduce the theme and the fellowship of Reformed churches early in the planning process. At its meeting in Holland, Michigan this year, WARC's executive committee approved plans to develop two key resources.

The first is a series of Christian education outlines that can be adapted for use on a denominational, national or regional level. Inspired by the charge to "Choose life, so that you and your descendants may live, loving the Lord your God, obeying him and holding fast to him..." (Deut 30.19-20), the resources identifies 12 challenges to life faced by Reformed Christians today.

Each outline contains two "real life" stories to illustrate the challenge, provides biblical references for study, suggests activities and commitments for various age groups and invites users to share their insights with the wider Reformed family. This resource will be available for adaptation by the end of 2001.

The second resource is an illustrated magazine-style study booklet for use in congregations, fellowship groups, Bible study groups, etc. The resource introduces the global fellowship of Reformed churches and the theme of the 24th general council, "That All may have Life in Fullness" (Jn 10.10). The study booklet contains 12 studies that draw attention to some of the life-related issues facing Reformed Christians around the world.

Each study contains a story to highlight the issue, provides Bible study and discussion questions, offers prayers, suggests additional resources and invites participants to respond. The resource is ideal for use by congregations that want to join in the general council gathering process. This resource will be available for use in early 2002.