Since we were young, we were taught to differentiate things: boys from girls, Democrats from Republicans, friends from enemies. Cynthia Bourgeault argues that we need to think with our hearts and unify.
Since I first wrote about Tom Bleakney, he has been peppering me with news stories about the environment. Both the good news and the bad. You’ll enjoy reading them.
Tom Bleakney is an evangelist. His Christian convictions play out in his lived actions to preserve the planet. Both his mission and passion ride along with him in his Tesla.
The pelican story continues with an environmental prophet, Rachel Carson, and how she was demonized and ultimately recognized. The story continues on Medium, where you can find my new blog, “Letters from an Elder.”
Meditations resumes with a story about Sunday School kids finding and taking pictures of God with their disposable cameras. God-is-everywhere is the theological point. Storytelling is the powerful message delivery system.
How much would you concede to have harmony with other Christians? With people of other religions? The tradeoff is not too difficult, says Brian McLaren in his book Faith After Doubt. Just let go of your sense of superiority.
Doubt is common among all religious people. Finding faith after doubt is hard and often lonely. Brian McLaren provides at least one pathway through the process.
This week I’ve reflected a bit on the requiem that CPC presented last week. As far as I know it is first of its kind, the first the answer the question of “how are we remembering these people.”
We need to pause, remember, and honor those who have died in the pandemic. As we gather this week for the performance of Geri Demasi’s requiem, we can also meditate on a portion of the text, which is this week’s Lectio Divina selection.
The parable of the “Lost Son” is among Jesus’ most recognized teachings. In this week’s Lectio Divina meditation, we focus on the very end of the story, finding what has been lost. Share your thoughts.
The parable of the woman at the well contains many stories worthy of contemplation. This week’s Lectio Divina passage draws on the Living Waters segment.
The desert is at once harsh and beautiful, trackless and the source of elemental direction. Join us in Lectio Divina this week as we internalize the meaning of Jesus’ temptations during his 40 days in the desert.
Each week during Lent, I will post a passage that you can use for meditation using the ancient practice of Lectio Divina, holy reading. If you wish, share your experiences in the “Comments” section below the post.
Henri Nouwen’s diary about his experience in a Trappist illustrates how contemplative religious practice is not a solitary experience. And it provides us guidance about how to build a vibrant congregation.
