Tag Archives: church
The Problem with Inclusive Language
When our inclusive language use becomes a point of exclusivity, it becomes a problem. And yes, inclusiveness can become exclusive. Continue reading
First Nations Version of the Gospel
The Gospel of Luke and Ephesians First Nations Version has become available. It is a must have for personal or communal use. The team that have translated and composed this version should be commended for their careful consideration and collaboration. This version is truly a wonderful presentation of one part of the Christian Testament and again, is rich in imagery with exceptional language use that respects and honours the indigenous peoples of North America that is not “tribally specific” and does not dilute the Good News of Creator Sets Free (Jesus Christ). Continue reading
Clergy at Christmas
Christmas means a lot of different things to different people. For some it is a celebration of light in the middle of winter, for others it is a time to gather with friends and family, and for others still it … Continue reading
When Christmas is not so merry…
Suddenly, things came into focus: the piercing glitter of the Christmas tree, the mocking joy of the star lit in the window. Christmas had come and gone for the rest of the world but not for us. There was no meal, no feast, no exchange of symbols of love for the birth of the Christ child…At the joy of the journey to Bethlehem was a funeral procession. The reading of the Scripture was about being lifted up on eagle’s wings, not the wings of angels at the manger. The hymns we sang were about Beulah Land not Bethlehem. The poems were of God’s mansion with many rooms, not about crowded inns. Silent Night took on a whole new meaning. Jesus seemed so far away, either in a manger, on a cross or out of the tomb. Continue reading
Spirituality of Incense
I grew up in a very strongly Protestant environment, where the divide between denominations determined everything from where you shopped, how holidays were celebrated, and, who you could be friends with. Since most Reformed traditions do not use incense, I … Continue reading
Four Corners of Faith:Finding our Spiritual Home in Life
Four Corners of Faith: Finding our spiritual home in life This workshop is for anyone in a time of transition or wanting to have a clearer understanding of how God speaks to us. Seeking a new minister? Church attendance declining … Continue reading
The Widow and the Judge- Sermon Starter
I will be preaching in the Iona Abbey next week and the reading will be based on Luke’s Gospel and the Widow and the Judge. This difficult story about a persistent widow and an unjust judge. (Chapter 18). We’re told … Continue reading
Literacy in Worship
Literacy in church and worship is perhaps something that worship planners may over look or consider on a regular basis. We live in a world surrounded by texts in print and online, on our phones, on our roads and in … Continue reading
Safely Ashore 