My last post dealt with the issue of pop culture’s current fascination with all things porn-like. I ended the post with a series of questions, pondering what it would be like for the church to engage in this issue. Here is my answer.
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This week I read with interest the article in The Telegram concerning the annual celebrations commemorating St. Francis of Assisi at the Anglican Cathedral, incorporating the blessing of the animals. While reading the article, my youngest daughter asked why we did not attend and have our dog, Brodie, blessed. I paused for a moment, reflecting upon my reasoning for our absence at this annual occasion. Continue reading
My colleagues in parish ministry hear comments from time to time such as, “You don’t understand what it’s like in the real world. It’s much harder to be a Christian out there.” And, to a certain extent, they’re right. At the very least, working in the Church brings different kinds of challenges than the work of honouring Christ among people who, at best, have pretty different values and, at worst, think our faith is just a big joke. Continue reading
How are you fitting church into your fall routine? Continue reading
I have intentionally withheld posting this for the past couple of days, wanting to see if anyone would mention Gaga’s performance. Why is Miley Cyrus shamed for her scantily clad performance, while Lady Gaga is hailed as an artist for hers? What are the complex issues involved in this? Continue reading
I think it’s important for us to all have a spiritual ‘home’ where we can go to, where we can feel that complete acceptance and welcome. A place where the location and people and setting all bring us into closer communion with God. A place where we can simply be who God made us to be, where we can feel God’s love no matter what. A place where we can accept wholeheartedly that we are beloved children of God, where we are inspired to take action in the world because of that love and acceptance. Continue reading
What is a hat? Is it merely an accessory to wardrobe, an article to be donned or removed without any interior meaning? Is it a statement of personality and identity – the removal of which means the denial of one’s own story and self-understanding? Is it a tool for head-covering, governed by cultural, social, and religious rules that dictate when it should be worn, and when it should be removed? Continue reading
Over the years I’ve heard many excuses and reasons why people don’t come to church. Some are amusing, some suggest deeper issues to be dealt with. What’s your excuse for not coming to church? Continue reading
Our artwork presents a glimpse of a broader Christian message, but imagine if a stranger were to see within our art something unintended, confusing, or offensive? I wonder how often we present an incomplete picture of the Christian church/faith/tradition? Does what we present through art and symbol tell enough of our whole story to convey the truth? Continue reading
Casual, everyday sexism remains common in our culture, for both women and men. We know that this behaviour is inexcusable and offensive. We in the church have not only an opportunity but a responsibility to address these issues. It’s not easy, it’s not comfortable, but sexism is not something that Jesus would tolerate. The church needs to be a place to celebrate that God’s grace and love is not dependent on gender roles. Continue reading
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