What is in Kelvin's Head?

  • Statement on the fire at Notre Dame

    The fire at Notre Dame Cathedral is a tragedy not only for Paris and the people of France but for the world.

    Those who know the building will be unable to see the pictures of the fire without feeling heartbroken.

    So many different things that make up the building are priceless – the medieval roof, the woodwork, the organ, the stained glass, the relics. But this tragedy is more than the loss of them all. It is the loss of the heart of Paris, the loss of a place of pilgrimage and the loss of a place of romance.

    Every day this week, Christians will be reflecting on the heartbreak of Mary, the Mother of Jesus, to whom Notre Dame was dedicated. Every day as we do so, we will be praying for the Paris its people as they face their own heartbreak.

    Notre Dame means Our Lady. Notre Dame doesn’t just belong to Paris, it belongs to us all.

    This was a building that is utterly associated with Paris. But it was an utterly priceless treasure for the world.

    It was truly ours, and this tragedy is our tragedy.

    Our Lady of Paris, pray for us and for all affected locally.

    Our Lady of Paris, we pray for you.

6 responses to “12 Things I’ve Learned About Preaching”

  1. AKMA Avatar
    AKMA

    I feel the sort of fervent affirmation that would come out as if I were arguing with you…

    Reply
    1. Jim Naughton Avatar
      Jim Naughton

      That’s so well stated.

      Reply
  2. Christine McIntosh Avatar
    Christine McIntosh

    Thanks, Kelvin – just realised I’m preaching next week …

    Reply
  3. Peggy Brewer Avatar
    Peggy Brewer

    Wisdom shared can be beneficial to most anyone in any profession! Very well said! I can think of some preachers that could/should heed your 12 commandments!

    Reply
  4. Terry Taggart Avatar
    Terry Taggart

    Thank you Kelvin. As preachers there is a danger that ‘we won’t be told’. This particular blog has allowed me to refer back to basics. It is deeply reassuring to know that preaching is not the work of genius, but the work of the Holy Spirit within us. Blessings Always.

    Reply
  5. Markus Dünzkofer Avatar
    Markus Dünzkofer

    Fantastic list! Should be shared with colleagues and those learning to preach.

    Reply

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