Here’s a quick catch-up from Australia.
Life imitates art.
For what it is worth – the story behind the Pentateuch and Judges is probably not historic. In fact, the Hebrews were either always in that Land, or just kind-of sidled in, quite harmlessly. It was largely AFTER they had been themselves brutally treated in the Exile that they retold the story, bigging themselves up. But that is another sermon…
Amen, amen, and AMEN!
The congregation I am part of (and love being part of) is itself part of the possibly most conservative diocese in the Anglican sphere – the Sydney Anglicans. We follow a traditional pattern of worship, reciting either the Nicene or Apostles Creed each week and I do find great relevance in this form of worship. I long for changed attitudes in a number of areas but walking away from the people I’ve grown to love isn’t an option. Talk about being between a rock and a hard place! 🙂
I found very helpful the idea of “discovering the different, diverse, and bountiful ways in which we do believe the core doctrines that are shared by all those who count themselves as God’s beloved.” I hadn’t really thought of their being different ways of believing in doctrines before – even though I am constantly speaking up for different ways of acting/moving/leading in worship. I wonder where there is room (or if there is any use?) for talking about this more. Where, or who, would I ask “How do you believe in one God?” etc. — not to get at assent to the doctrine but at action flowing out of that belief. Hmm.
Thanks for posting.
I rather enjoyed reading this essay from an atheist philosopher who, from his hospital bed, forgives those who are praying for him. Thus: What, though, do I say to those of my religious friends (and yes, I have quite a few religious friends) who have had the courage and honesty to tell me that they…
Last night’s service was absolutely beautiful. I’ve never heard the DuruflĂ© Requiem live before and it was tremendous celebrating the Eucharist with all that going on. For me one of the most moving bits comes early in the Kyrie. I love the Sanctus too though it sounds as though the angels are singing their holy,…
It is All Souls Day – the Day of the Dead. The main celebration (and it always is a celebration) here is a full choral requiem (DuruflĂ©) at 7.30 pm this evening. Gentle beauty. Strong memories. Powerful reflections. Black vestments. On this day, we remember by name in prayer those who have died. Never a…
Congratulations to Sheilagh Kesting. It was announced yesterday that she will become the next moderator of the Church of Scotland. Sheilagh has a passionate commitment to working ecumenically – she believes it more than most these days. No doubt that will be one of the key features of her moderatorial year. How delighted they must…
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