My sisters & brothers, how do we respond to the love God expresses in the birth of Jesus?
Our Gospel tonight is the Nativity story and Luke is concerned to place Jesus in the time-line of history, as a real human being; placing his berth in the context of major event. It is possible that Judea was included in a census of 8-7 BC, “the first registration.” From Matthew we know that Herod the Great sought to kill Jesus by slaughtering all children aged two or less. Because Herod died in 4 BC, Jesus was born no later than 6 BC. The dating between Luke and Matthew is pretty close considering that birth records were not kept in those days.
Jesus is treated like any other newborn of the time: he is wrapped in cloths, but there may be a message in his being born in “a manger” and there are many interpretations circulating among Christian writers. At the very least it testifies to the low statues of Jesus’ family. Luke moves on to underline the point by describing the lowly shepherds as being the only ones who the pronouncement by the angels.
Traditionally, the Christian feast day we refer to as Christmas is also call “The Incarnation,” i.e., God entering human flesh in the person Jesus. It reflects the Christological doctrine that Jesus was fully human and fully divine. Mary is God’s chosen assistant, for this blessed union of God and humanity.
There is a modern Christmas hymn by Peter McCann called “The Star” which puts it beautifully. The lyrics can be found here.
In this hymn, we see a poetic description for what incarnation means. The all powerful Creator takes on the experience of human vulnerability. A helpless child of poor travelers, yet with greater potential than any would guess.
If one is open to God and seeking goodness in life then Jesus’ simple birth can bring a spiritual light to your very soul.
My sisters and brothers, the bottom line of the Christmas story is a question of faith: “will you embrace the belief that God loves you enough to share your human pains and joys? That is, in Jesus the Christ, God will bring you healing & renewed life – if you accept it. This is the core message of the Christmas mystery!
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Homily for 4th Sunday of Advent, 2009
My sisters & brothers let us follow the example of our ancestors in faith and diligently serve the Lord.
From the prophet Micah we heard another proclamation of the coming of the Messiah! Micah wrote at a time when the Assyrian army had invaded the kingdom of Israel, and when corruption was rife in Judah. The rich cheated and robbed the poor; priests and prophets adapted their words to suit their audiences. In 701 BC, Jerusalem was besieged and Judah also became a vassal state of Assyria. In this context the prophet tells us that a time will come when a ruler will arise from the Ephrathah clan of the tribe of Judah (Ephrathah being the area round Bethlehem); he will “rule in Israel” and will be of ancient lineage. David being from Bethlehem, people understood the lineage to be his. By the time of Jesus, it was understood that this figure was the Messiah, the ideal future king, who would bring misery to an end and usher in God’s glorious kingdom.
In our Hebrews reading, we hear that Christ came to abolish the old order (Old Covenant) and to establish a new order. Quoting Psalm 40, the author explains that God prefers obedience to sacrifices: doing God’s will is what counts. He lists the four types of sacrifice offered in the Temple, according to Mosaic “law.” Jesus, he says, came to do away with “the first” (the sacrificial system) and to inaugurate “the second” (the self-offering of Jesus himself). It is “by God’s will,” carried out through Christ, that we have been “sanctified.”
Finally, from Luke we glimpse Mary visiting Elizabeth, They recognizing the hand of God working in each other’s lives.
Earlier, an angel has appeared to Zechariah in the Temple, and later Mary. Zechariah has been told that his wife Elizabeth will bear a child in her old age; Mary has heard that she will bear a son to be called Jesus and “Son of the Most High God.” God will make him a king of David’s line; he will rule Israel for ever.
Now Mary visits her “relative” Elizabeth. In telling us that “the child leaped” in Elizabeth’s womb, Luke intends us to understand that John recognizes his Lord. Elizabeth’s reaction, empowered by the Holy Spirit, is to praise Mary.
Both of these great women, Mary and Elizabeth, are a powerful example of accepting one’s calling from God and carrying that out with love and diligence; being a collaborator with God. Mary in particular became a larger than life figure that many generations of Christians have looked to with awe. Irenaeus called her the New Eve, Mother of a new order in God’s plan. Council of Ephesus (431) declared her Theotokos, Mother of God. This is a reflection of her role in bringing the union of God and humanity that we believe took place in Jesus: that he is fully human and fully Divine.
But, we must ask ourselves, what does it mean to be one of God’s collaborators; to give of our lives to help bring about the blessed plans of our Creator? For Mary it was an unusual pregnancy and the raising of an unusual child. For Elizabeth, it was similar. What does it mean for you, in 2010, in Sierra Vista?
From the prophet Micah we heard another proclamation of the coming of the Messiah! Micah wrote at a time when the Assyrian army had invaded the kingdom of Israel, and when corruption was rife in Judah. The rich cheated and robbed the poor; priests and prophets adapted their words to suit their audiences. In 701 BC, Jerusalem was besieged and Judah also became a vassal state of Assyria. In this context the prophet tells us that a time will come when a ruler will arise from the Ephrathah clan of the tribe of Judah (Ephrathah being the area round Bethlehem); he will “rule in Israel” and will be of ancient lineage. David being from Bethlehem, people understood the lineage to be his. By the time of Jesus, it was understood that this figure was the Messiah, the ideal future king, who would bring misery to an end and usher in God’s glorious kingdom.
In our Hebrews reading, we hear that Christ came to abolish the old order (Old Covenant) and to establish a new order. Quoting Psalm 40, the author explains that God prefers obedience to sacrifices: doing God’s will is what counts. He lists the four types of sacrifice offered in the Temple, according to Mosaic “law.” Jesus, he says, came to do away with “the first” (the sacrificial system) and to inaugurate “the second” (the self-offering of Jesus himself). It is “by God’s will,” carried out through Christ, that we have been “sanctified.”
Finally, from Luke we glimpse Mary visiting Elizabeth, They recognizing the hand of God working in each other’s lives.
Earlier, an angel has appeared to Zechariah in the Temple, and later Mary. Zechariah has been told that his wife Elizabeth will bear a child in her old age; Mary has heard that she will bear a son to be called Jesus and “Son of the Most High God.” God will make him a king of David’s line; he will rule Israel for ever.
Now Mary visits her “relative” Elizabeth. In telling us that “the child leaped” in Elizabeth’s womb, Luke intends us to understand that John recognizes his Lord. Elizabeth’s reaction, empowered by the Holy Spirit, is to praise Mary.
Both of these great women, Mary and Elizabeth, are a powerful example of accepting one’s calling from God and carrying that out with love and diligence; being a collaborator with God. Mary in particular became a larger than life figure that many generations of Christians have looked to with awe. Irenaeus called her the New Eve, Mother of a new order in God’s plan. Council of Ephesus (431) declared her Theotokos, Mother of God. This is a reflection of her role in bringing the union of God and humanity that we believe took place in Jesus: that he is fully human and fully Divine.
But, we must ask ourselves, what does it mean to be one of God’s collaborators; to give of our lives to help bring about the blessed plans of our Creator? For Mary it was an unusual pregnancy and the raising of an unusual child. For Elizabeth, it was similar. What does it mean for you, in 2010, in Sierra Vista?
Monday, December 14, 2009
Homily for the Third Sunday of Advent, December 13, 2009
My brothers and sisters let us enjoy the closeness of Christmas and share our joy with those in need.
In our reading form Zephaniah we again we see the theme of rejoicing at the restoration and redemption given by of the Lord! The prophet himself tells us that he is descended from Hezekiah, most likely the king who ruled Judah 715-687 BCE. His intimate knowledge of Jerusalem and affairs in the court, and the absence of a theme found in other prophetic books - denunciation of the king - suggest that he was of royal descent. He also tells us that his ministry began in the reign of King Josiah, the great reformer. But his denunciation of corruption in religious affairs suggests that his prophecies date from before the reforms of 621 BCE.
Earlier in the chapter, the Zephaniah has spoken of Jerusalem (her inhabitants) and their crimes: they have failed to listen to God, accept his advice, trust in him and draw near to him. Now he invites Jerusalem to rejoice because her salvation is about to happen. God has intervened; He dwells with His people and protects them.
In our reading from Philippians we have yet more cause for rejoicing. These closing lines are the conventional Greek salutation (like our goodbye) but here Paul means “rejoice” literally. Paul expects the Second Coming soon: “The Lord is near.” Therefore, rather than worrying on their own, the Philippians should ask God to help them, through prayer, both in prayers of “supplication” (petition) and of “thanksgiving.” God’s “peace” will protect them against their own failings and external threats. It “surpasses all understanding” either by being beyond the grasp of the human mind or by achieving more than we can conceive.
In our gospel story we saw John the Baptist continuing his ministry. He exhorts all to conversion of conduct, not just heart, giving practical advice and promising the arrival of the “Great One.”
John addresses the people in general and calls them “vipers” (poisonous snakes) and accuses them of being baptized with no intention of starting a new, ethical, life. If they think that by being baptized they will evade God’s judgment at the end of the era, they are wrong: they must also turn to godliness. Luke gives us three examples of behavior which fit with turning over a new leaf. The “crowds” are probably ordinary people; they should have selfless concern for the disadvantaged. In spite of attempted reforms, “tax collectors” still collected more than prescribed; they are to stop gouging the people. The “soldiers” were probably Jews in the service of Herod Antipas; they too were despised by the populace for various abuses. John tells them that they should follow the emperor’s guidelines on military conduct.
This is defiantly "Rejoice Sunday." Years ago the violet or purple color of the vestments was altered for one day to a rose color. This is the Sunday the pink candle of the Advent wreath is lighted. Children (with their building excitement for Christmas) help us be excited in anticipation of something special. The dictionary offers some rather startling definitions for the word "rejoice": clap, shout, exult, festivity. All words used to help describe rejoicing. For many people, this season brings a great deal of hectic activity; I am certainly one of them. Although much of it is oriented toward the celebration of Christmas, we tend to forget that rejoicing is supposed to flow from a singular reason: the Lord Jesus. "Rejoice in the Lord always!" That is the advice of Saint Paul. As the season of Advent moves closer to Christmas, perhaps we need to remember these words and be less frantic about all the other preparations and more prayerful.
In our reading form Zephaniah we again we see the theme of rejoicing at the restoration and redemption given by of the Lord! The prophet himself tells us that he is descended from Hezekiah, most likely the king who ruled Judah 715-687 BCE. His intimate knowledge of Jerusalem and affairs in the court, and the absence of a theme found in other prophetic books - denunciation of the king - suggest that he was of royal descent. He also tells us that his ministry began in the reign of King Josiah, the great reformer. But his denunciation of corruption in religious affairs suggests that his prophecies date from before the reforms of 621 BCE.
Earlier in the chapter, the Zephaniah has spoken of Jerusalem (her inhabitants) and their crimes: they have failed to listen to God, accept his advice, trust in him and draw near to him. Now he invites Jerusalem to rejoice because her salvation is about to happen. God has intervened; He dwells with His people and protects them.
In our reading from Philippians we have yet more cause for rejoicing. These closing lines are the conventional Greek salutation (like our goodbye) but here Paul means “rejoice” literally. Paul expects the Second Coming soon: “The Lord is near.” Therefore, rather than worrying on their own, the Philippians should ask God to help them, through prayer, both in prayers of “supplication” (petition) and of “thanksgiving.” God’s “peace” will protect them against their own failings and external threats. It “surpasses all understanding” either by being beyond the grasp of the human mind or by achieving more than we can conceive.
In our gospel story we saw John the Baptist continuing his ministry. He exhorts all to conversion of conduct, not just heart, giving practical advice and promising the arrival of the “Great One.”
John addresses the people in general and calls them “vipers” (poisonous snakes) and accuses them of being baptized with no intention of starting a new, ethical, life. If they think that by being baptized they will evade God’s judgment at the end of the era, they are wrong: they must also turn to godliness. Luke gives us three examples of behavior which fit with turning over a new leaf. The “crowds” are probably ordinary people; they should have selfless concern for the disadvantaged. In spite of attempted reforms, “tax collectors” still collected more than prescribed; they are to stop gouging the people. The “soldiers” were probably Jews in the service of Herod Antipas; they too were despised by the populace for various abuses. John tells them that they should follow the emperor’s guidelines on military conduct.
This is defiantly "Rejoice Sunday." Years ago the violet or purple color of the vestments was altered for one day to a rose color. This is the Sunday the pink candle of the Advent wreath is lighted. Children (with their building excitement for Christmas) help us be excited in anticipation of something special. The dictionary offers some rather startling definitions for the word "rejoice": clap, shout, exult, festivity. All words used to help describe rejoicing. For many people, this season brings a great deal of hectic activity; I am certainly one of them. Although much of it is oriented toward the celebration of Christmas, we tend to forget that rejoicing is supposed to flow from a singular reason: the Lord Jesus. "Rejoice in the Lord always!" That is the advice of Saint Paul. As the season of Advent moves closer to Christmas, perhaps we need to remember these words and be less frantic about all the other preparations and more prayerful.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Homily for 2nd Sunday of Advent "C"
In our reading from Baruch we hear the call for celebration as God brings back the exiles and reestablishes the glory of the Jerusalem. This book is set in the time of the Exile, when some the people had been deported to Babylon and others had dispersed around the Mediterranean. The author speaks to Jerusalem as if it were a person. It is time to remove mourning attire, to don forever splendid garments given by God, guarantees and symbols of harmony, security and prosperity. From now on, Jerusalem will be a place where justice and peace prevail and where God’s glory will be seen.
In our second reading Paul rejoices in the authentic faith of the Philippians. He prays that they may be overflowing in Christian knowledge and discernment so that they may be pure and blameless on the final day. The tone of joyful prayer is a pervasive quality of the whole letter. Paul further expresses his confidence that God will finish what God has begun among them.
In our gospel story John the Baptist begins his ministry (that is) his role in God’s plan. He announces the time of redemption is at hand. As did classical Greek authors, Luke places John’s ministry in the context of rulers, here both secular and religious. This gives us a rather precise date for Jesus’ life and the begging of his ministry, i.e. 26-29 AD. The Greek translated “the word of God came” is the same as in Jeremiah. Luke sees John as continuing the role of the prophets; announcing judgment at the end of the era and a new pact with God, available to all.
As we look at John’s proclamation that the Kingdom is at hand, we must also look at what it means for us 21st century Christians to “prepare the way of the Lord.” Like John (and the Philippians Paul is so proud of) it means that we must step up to the role God has called us to fulfill. In general terms it’s easy to talk about:
· Feed the hungry
· Cloth the naked
· Teach the uneducated
· Visit the sick
Personally it’s about each of us taking the time to listen to God’s voice in our lives. Putting aside time to get involved and try various ministries on for size. One will ultimately finding that right fit that uses our talents in a way that we can feel good about. In this way we can make a contribution of our time and talents to the Kingdom of God!
Thursday, December 3, 2009
More on Sexuality and Ordained Ministry
Lest we think that the conflicts revolving around the ordination of practicing homosexual persons is simply a matter of Canada and the U.S. verses the world - Thinking Anglicans and Inclusive Church, both based in Great Brittion as far as I know, have furthered the conversation in there own way.
Thinking Anglicans can be found here! and Inclusive Church here!
In particular, Inclusive Church has compiled two statments in response to the letter from the Archbishop of Canterbury last August, entitled Communion, Covenant and our Anglican Future. The Arcbhishop's letter was largely a response to the actions of The Episcopal Church's recent General Convention. (You'll find links in my earlier posts). These responses express grave concern about the content and implications of the Archbishop's statements. They were written after consultation and are intended to reflect a variety of responses to the Archbishop’s paper.
The short version is here and The full document is here - both in pdf.
Clearly this is not the simple matter of one or two churches of the Anglican Communion moving forward with our due consult with the other churches. Its also about churches, exemplify by the Church of England, ignoring the concerns of their own membership.
Any thoughts?
Thinking Anglicans can be found here! and Inclusive Church here!
In particular, Inclusive Church has compiled two statments in response to the letter from the Archbishop of Canterbury last August, entitled Communion, Covenant and our Anglican Future. The Arcbhishop's letter was largely a response to the actions of The Episcopal Church's recent General Convention. (You'll find links in my earlier posts). These responses express grave concern about the content and implications of the Archbishop's statements. They were written after consultation and are intended to reflect a variety of responses to the Archbishop’s paper.
The short version is here and The full document is here - both in pdf.
Clearly this is not the simple matter of one or two churches of the Anglican Communion moving forward with our due consult with the other churches. Its also about churches, exemplify by the Church of England, ignoring the concerns of their own membership.
Any thoughts?
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Homily for the 1st Sunday of Advent, 2009
My brothers & sisters, redemption is here and available in Christ.
Our first lesson from Jeremiah comes from the time when Jerusalem fell to the Babylonians in 586 BC. In bad times, the prophet told of God’s love for his people. Today’s passage was edited or written centuries later. We hear that it is a certainty that a time will come when God will complete His promises. That is what we heard about God restoring both the people of Israel and the linage of David.
I our second reading, Paul expresses his gratitude for the Thessalonians and looks forward to seeing them again. When he was in Thessalonica, he had predicted that some Christians there would be persecuted. This has now happened; he has sent Timothy to strengthen and encourage them for the sake of your faith, so no one would be shaken by these persecutions. Timothy has now returned to Paul in Athens, and has conveyed to him that the Thessalonians are strong. Indeed, their faith has encouraged Paul in facing persecution himself.
Paul in turn prays for them:
• that he may visit them again
• that they may have a superabundance of love for their fellow Christians and for all;
• that their very beings (hearts) may become so God-like (so holy) that they may be totally free of sin when Christ comes again.
In our reading from Luke, we again see Jesus predicting his second coming. The end will be delayed: the killing and deportation of citizens will continue “until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled,” i.e., until non-Jews have had the opportunity to come to Christ. In spite of the delay, the era will end before all those alive now have died. Obviously Luke misunderstood how soon Jesus would return. But, we do still look for that day.
Today we begin the season of Advent. It is the season of preparation and anticipation of the anniversary of Christ’s coming into our world. However it is not just for the retelling of that story. More importantly, it is preparation for the return of the Messiah in glory. There is an understanding amongst disciples of Jesus from the first century through to the present day; that the Messiah’s first appearance was to reopen the door for us to have individual relationships with our Creator.
From our gospel today we are given a message that I believe many Christians miss. “Stand up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” Rather than take this to heart we generally fear Christ’s return. Some of this is rooted in our natural fear of the unknown; some in the outrageous imagery of Revelations and the battle of Armageddon; some of it is shear morbid fascination. We have such a fascination that the movie industry even makes huge “end off the world” productions. An easy example is the movie about the prediction of the Mayan calendar that the world will end in 2012.
But the Gospel message is not strictly about things that one should fear. It is also about triumph; the vindication of believers; the end of evil and suffering and finally, the restoration of our ideal relationship with our Creator. Not exactly something to be frightened about. Yes we do want to be ready, not caught in our personal sinfulness. But that is not a frightening proposition either. We have in Christ the maximum richness of forgiveness. Let’s face it, our generation may be more technological than any before it. But we have not come up with any sins that Christ has not seen and heard before. Let us not shy from seeking and enjoying His forgiveness. Let us look forward to celebrating the anniversary of his first coming this Christmas and let us look forward to his return. Doing our part as we are called and trusting Christ for all the things that are beyond us.
Our first lesson from Jeremiah comes from the time when Jerusalem fell to the Babylonians in 586 BC. In bad times, the prophet told of God’s love for his people. Today’s passage was edited or written centuries later. We hear that it is a certainty that a time will come when God will complete His promises. That is what we heard about God restoring both the people of Israel and the linage of David.
I our second reading, Paul expresses his gratitude for the Thessalonians and looks forward to seeing them again. When he was in Thessalonica, he had predicted that some Christians there would be persecuted. This has now happened; he has sent Timothy to strengthen and encourage them for the sake of your faith, so no one would be shaken by these persecutions. Timothy has now returned to Paul in Athens, and has conveyed to him that the Thessalonians are strong. Indeed, their faith has encouraged Paul in facing persecution himself.
Paul in turn prays for them:
• that he may visit them again
• that they may have a superabundance of love for their fellow Christians and for all;
• that their very beings (hearts) may become so God-like (so holy) that they may be totally free of sin when Christ comes again.
In our reading from Luke, we again see Jesus predicting his second coming. The end will be delayed: the killing and deportation of citizens will continue “until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled,” i.e., until non-Jews have had the opportunity to come to Christ. In spite of the delay, the era will end before all those alive now have died. Obviously Luke misunderstood how soon Jesus would return. But, we do still look for that day.
Today we begin the season of Advent. It is the season of preparation and anticipation of the anniversary of Christ’s coming into our world. However it is not just for the retelling of that story. More importantly, it is preparation for the return of the Messiah in glory. There is an understanding amongst disciples of Jesus from the first century through to the present day; that the Messiah’s first appearance was to reopen the door for us to have individual relationships with our Creator.
From our gospel today we are given a message that I believe many Christians miss. “Stand up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” Rather than take this to heart we generally fear Christ’s return. Some of this is rooted in our natural fear of the unknown; some in the outrageous imagery of Revelations and the battle of Armageddon; some of it is shear morbid fascination. We have such a fascination that the movie industry even makes huge “end off the world” productions. An easy example is the movie about the prediction of the Mayan calendar that the world will end in 2012.
But the Gospel message is not strictly about things that one should fear. It is also about triumph; the vindication of believers; the end of evil and suffering and finally, the restoration of our ideal relationship with our Creator. Not exactly something to be frightened about. Yes we do want to be ready, not caught in our personal sinfulness. But that is not a frightening proposition either. We have in Christ the maximum richness of forgiveness. Let’s face it, our generation may be more technological than any before it. But we have not come up with any sins that Christ has not seen and heard before. Let us not shy from seeking and enjoying His forgiveness. Let us look forward to celebrating the anniversary of his first coming this Christmas and let us look forward to his return. Doing our part as we are called and trusting Christ for all the things that are beyond us.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Homily for November 15, 2009 - Proper 28 B
Our reading from the book of Daniel is a powerful apocalyptic description of the end of time and God’s final victory. Including a prophecy of the resurrection of the just and punishment of the wicked.
The prince “Michael” who is spoken of is Michael the Archangel. He was seen as the divinely appointed Guardian Angel of Israel. Michael is also a central figure in the book of Revelation where he leads the forces of heaven in campaign to cast out the devil and the other “fallen angels.” Through Christian history he has been seen as a protector and defender of God’s people and a spiritual patron of Police and Military.
In our second reading the author of Hebrews continues describing the freedom from sin that Christ brought us and the new freedom we have to approach the thrown of God in joy! Notice that this passage also talks about the end of time in terms of Christ defeating his enemies. Although these enemies are not named, the since of a final purging of evil from the world is unavoidable in this passage.
In our gospel reading, Jesus predicts the destruction of the Temple, as the prophets Micah and Jeremiah had done earlier. This may not be the kind of prophecy that usually comes to mind. The Temple and the whole religious system that revolved around it were destroyed by the Romans in 70AD. This passage may be the reflection of the early Christians on their experience and Jesus’ condemnation of the abuses committed by the Temple authorities. It could be a way of giving comfort to those early Christians who were traumatized by the destruction. In essence the authors are saying that God intended things to happen this way.
Today we are drawing close to the end of the liturgical year (the new year begins with the first Sunday of Advent and concludes with next week’s celebration of Christ the King). That is why we have readings that focus so much on the “end of time” and God’s final battle. The Archangel Michael leading the charge is an image that is quite old. We know from the Qumran (Dead Sea) scrolls, that hope in this Divine intervention was wide spread in Jesus day. Christian writers picked up on the literary tradition and we see the same images in the book of Revelation.
The devotions to saints and angles is a piece of Christian tradition that has seen its share of excess and simple misunderstanding. Some went to the extreme of treating certain saints as if they were demigods. However, at its best, it fills the need we all have for heroes and heroines whom we can personally identify with and draw inspiration from. We all have our personal heroes and heroines. Such as that favorite aunt, uncle or grand parent who was a powerful and blessed influence in our lives. The saints stand as examples worthy of our imitation. We do not pray “to” the saints. We ask them to pray for and with us, just as we would ask each other. We can do this because we are spiritually united with all God’s servants through our oneness in Christ. Both through our baptism into the Mystical Body of Christ that Paul talks about - and as Eucharistic members in the Communion of all believers past and present.
My brothers and sisters let us not fear to draw on the best of this tradition for our inspiration and spiritual enrichment.
Saturday, November 14, 2009
NPR interview with Bishop Robinson & more Episcopal Church news
The last few days have brought us some grate news for and with in the Episcopal Church.
First NPRs NEAL CONAN (Talk of the Nation) interview Bishop Robinson on ups and downs that the Gay Rights movement has experienced recently. You can find the pod cast here.
Second The San Diego Superior Court ruled in favor of the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego. This is one more piece of the ongoing property disputes between TEC and groups who have left the Church, trying to take the Church's property with them. It is especially important to me because one of the properties in question was St. Anne’s in Oceanside - the parish that first invited me into TEC. You can find the story on The Lead. Hopefully on my next visit to Oceanside I'll again be able to worship with a Continuing Episcopal Community!
First NPRs NEAL CONAN (Talk of the Nation) interview Bishop Robinson on ups and downs that the Gay Rights movement has experienced recently. You can find the pod cast here.
Second The San Diego Superior Court ruled in favor of the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego. This is one more piece of the ongoing property disputes between TEC and groups who have left the Church, trying to take the Church's property with them. It is especially important to me because one of the properties in question was St. Anne’s in Oceanside - the parish that first invited me into TEC. You can find the story on The Lead. Hopefully on my next visit to Oceanside I'll again be able to worship with a Continuing Episcopal Community!
Significant amounts of water found on the moon
Yesterday NASSA announced the finding of significant water deposes on the moon. This has massive implications for both research and for the practicality of using the moon as a lauch base for further space exploration.
You can read the story at Scientific American.
or
a the New York Times.
Enjoy!
You can read the story at Scientific American.
or
a the New York Times.
Enjoy!
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Homily for Nov. 8, 2009, Proper 27 B
Homily for Proper 27 B
November 8, 2009
My sisters and brothers, Christian generosity is not just about monies, foodstuffs and household necessities. We are also called to give of our time and talent.
In our first reading we heard the famous story of the Elijah and the widow’s bottomless jar. It is one of many miraculous things God does through Elijah. Most importantly, it is an example of extreme generosity and sharing in the midst of calamity. A little background makes the story even more powerful. This story takes place in a region acknowledged as belonging to the pagan god Baal not Yahweh! Yet the power of Yahweh causes drought to descend there and protects those He favors with miraculous food. This is also a story of my God (Yahweh) is stronger than your god (Baal). At this point in their history, the Israelite people did not see other gods as false; only as alien and inferior to Yahweh!
In our Hebrews reading, Christ is described as removing sin by the sacrifice of himself.
The author sees Christ as coming “at the end of the age” of the first covenant. God has appointed that humans “die once” and later be judged (at the end of the current era); likewise Christ sacrificed himself once and will later return. But his second coming will be to complete and finalize the salvation of his followers.
For our gospel story today we heard the widow’s might. She contributes out of her “poverty” while others contribute out of their abundance. She clearly makes the greater sacrifice!
Prior to this, scribe has asked Jesus: which is the greatest precept in the law? His agreement that to love God and to love one’s neighbors are the most important has led Jesus to tell him that he is almost ready for the kingdom of God.
Now, as Jesus teaches in the synagogue, he warns of certain scribes (professional interpreters of the Law) who walk around ostentatiously, seek honor in public places and seek prestige. They where showy cloths and expect the best seats in the synagogue (near the Ark where the scrolls were kept).
Certain scribes, as legal trustees of a widow’s estate, charged exorbitantly for their services. Jesus proclaims that they will be judged harshly in the greatest court of all on Judgment Day. Jesus’ disciples are not to be like them. On the other hand, the poor widow is an example of good discipleship because she made a far greater personal sacrifice than the rich people who only give what they do not need.
In our modern world, many have wondered (and I am one of them) if our time is even more precious to us than any other possession. The widows’ gift to Elijah was not just her bread but her labor as well.
How do we contribute from our time, abilities? Are we truly looking for honor and status or are we truly doing acts of charity? Our parish stewardship committee has envisioned some opportunities for us to help clarify the gifts that God is calling us to share. Each of us is blessed with talents, aptitudes, education and experience. We simply need to grow in the awareness that God has not only blessed us with them but calls us to use them for the growth of the Divine Kingdom.
Doing the work of the Kingdom is demanding. It takes time, energy and heart. For us it manifests in many volunteer activities: baking cookies and making crafts, singing, teaching children and youth, fixing this and that, and the dreaded: “committee meetings.”
Yet, we cannot exist and carry forward our calling as God’s people in Sierra Vista without all of the above. My brothers and sisters let us roll up our sleeves and do our part!
November 8, 2009
My sisters and brothers, Christian generosity is not just about monies, foodstuffs and household necessities. We are also called to give of our time and talent.
In our first reading we heard the famous story of the Elijah and the widow’s bottomless jar. It is one of many miraculous things God does through Elijah. Most importantly, it is an example of extreme generosity and sharing in the midst of calamity. A little background makes the story even more powerful. This story takes place in a region acknowledged as belonging to the pagan god Baal not Yahweh! Yet the power of Yahweh causes drought to descend there and protects those He favors with miraculous food. This is also a story of my God (Yahweh) is stronger than your god (Baal). At this point in their history, the Israelite people did not see other gods as false; only as alien and inferior to Yahweh!
In our Hebrews reading, Christ is described as removing sin by the sacrifice of himself.
The author sees Christ as coming “at the end of the age” of the first covenant. God has appointed that humans “die once” and later be judged (at the end of the current era); likewise Christ sacrificed himself once and will later return. But his second coming will be to complete and finalize the salvation of his followers.
For our gospel story today we heard the widow’s might. She contributes out of her “poverty” while others contribute out of their abundance. She clearly makes the greater sacrifice!
Prior to this, scribe has asked Jesus: which is the greatest precept in the law? His agreement that to love God and to love one’s neighbors are the most important has led Jesus to tell him that he is almost ready for the kingdom of God.
Now, as Jesus teaches in the synagogue, he warns of certain scribes (professional interpreters of the Law) who walk around ostentatiously, seek honor in public places and seek prestige. They where showy cloths and expect the best seats in the synagogue (near the Ark where the scrolls were kept).
Certain scribes, as legal trustees of a widow’s estate, charged exorbitantly for their services. Jesus proclaims that they will be judged harshly in the greatest court of all on Judgment Day. Jesus’ disciples are not to be like them. On the other hand, the poor widow is an example of good discipleship because she made a far greater personal sacrifice than the rich people who only give what they do not need.
In our modern world, many have wondered (and I am one of them) if our time is even more precious to us than any other possession. The widows’ gift to Elijah was not just her bread but her labor as well.
How do we contribute from our time, abilities? Are we truly looking for honor and status or are we truly doing acts of charity? Our parish stewardship committee has envisioned some opportunities for us to help clarify the gifts that God is calling us to share. Each of us is blessed with talents, aptitudes, education and experience. We simply need to grow in the awareness that God has not only blessed us with them but calls us to use them for the growth of the Divine Kingdom.
Doing the work of the Kingdom is demanding. It takes time, energy and heart. For us it manifests in many volunteer activities: baking cookies and making crafts, singing, teaching children and youth, fixing this and that, and the dreaded: “committee meetings.”
Yet, we cannot exist and carry forward our calling as God’s people in Sierra Vista without all of the above. My brothers and sisters let us roll up our sleeves and do our part!
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Homily (All Saints) November 1, 2009
My sisters and brothers, spiritually speaking, our extended family is vast and inspiring.
In our first reading from Isaiah we hear about the final fulfillment of God promises at the end of time. In God’s Kingdom there will be rich party fare and there will be no cause for grief or pain.
In this passage, the deceased are pictured as being covered with a “shroud” or “sheet”; this will be removed when God does away with death forever. In the eternal life of the Kingdom, God will “wipe away” one of the roots of all misery, our mortality. The remnant, the godly, will acknowledge God, for whom they have waited and who has saved them.
Our second reading is from John’s record of his vision of the end-times. Previously he has told of the destruction of the old city, Babylon (code name for Rome) and of the old heaven and earth; the ungodly have been driven off to punishment. Only the godly, a remnant, remain. Now John sees the new creation. The sea, a symbol of turbulence, unrest and chaos, is no more. He sees the New Jerusalem, a holy city of divine origin, beautiful and lovely. Some have interpreted this city as the church, set apart for God’s use in the world while others view this as a glimpse at the reunion of heaven and earth. Once again, God makes all things right and joyful for his people.
Alpha” and “Omega” is the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet; this imagery is intended to describe God as all encompassing.
Our gospel story today (resurrection of Lazarus) is one of Jesus’ most powerful miracles. Four days in the tomb, there is little doubt to the crowd that the man was truly dead. Reviving him from a near death illness was not possible. Yet, Jesus’ mere command makes it happen. Most likely John relates Jesus’ weeping because to express how he is touched by the pain of those he loves and shares that pain in some real way. Martha tries to restrain Jesus from viewing the decomposing corpse of his friend. And Jesus responds: did I not tell you that if you believed you would see God’s power to end death? After giving this reassurance, he issues the Divine Command and Lazarus is fully restored.
Our readings and celebration today revolve around Christian belief that in Christ we have a spiritual connection in all the virtuous people who have gone before us. All saints and All Souls days celebrate the final fulfillment of God’s promises of a holy paradise and the foretaste we experience now as God’s people. Do you remember Jesus’ preaching; the Kingdom is at hand, even among you? Today we celebrate that what Christ announced is true and our unity with Christ and one another extends not just we other believers in this life but in the life to come as well.
It is believed by many scholars that the commemoration of all the saints on November first originated in Ireland, spread from there to England, and then to the continent of Europe. That it had reached Rome and had been adopted there early in the ninth century is attested by a letter of
Pope Gregory the Fourth, who reigned from 828 to 844, to Emperor Louis “the Pious,” urging that such a festival be observed throughout the Holy Roman Empire.
The desire of Christian people to express the intercommunion of the living and the dead in the Body of Christ by a commemoration of those who had lived the faith in days past, is was far older than the early Middle Ages. The patriarch John Chrysostom, who died in 407, says that a festival of All Saints was observed on the first Sunday after Pentecost in Constantinople at the time of his episcopate.
Today, we join this tradition in celebrating our vast spiritual family, in Christ.
In our first reading from Isaiah we hear about the final fulfillment of God promises at the end of time. In God’s Kingdom there will be rich party fare and there will be no cause for grief or pain.
In this passage, the deceased are pictured as being covered with a “shroud” or “sheet”; this will be removed when God does away with death forever. In the eternal life of the Kingdom, God will “wipe away” one of the roots of all misery, our mortality. The remnant, the godly, will acknowledge God, for whom they have waited and who has saved them.
Our second reading is from John’s record of his vision of the end-times. Previously he has told of the destruction of the old city, Babylon (code name for Rome) and of the old heaven and earth; the ungodly have been driven off to punishment. Only the godly, a remnant, remain. Now John sees the new creation. The sea, a symbol of turbulence, unrest and chaos, is no more. He sees the New Jerusalem, a holy city of divine origin, beautiful and lovely. Some have interpreted this city as the church, set apart for God’s use in the world while others view this as a glimpse at the reunion of heaven and earth. Once again, God makes all things right and joyful for his people.
Alpha” and “Omega” is the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet; this imagery is intended to describe God as all encompassing.
Our gospel story today (resurrection of Lazarus) is one of Jesus’ most powerful miracles. Four days in the tomb, there is little doubt to the crowd that the man was truly dead. Reviving him from a near death illness was not possible. Yet, Jesus’ mere command makes it happen. Most likely John relates Jesus’ weeping because to express how he is touched by the pain of those he loves and shares that pain in some real way. Martha tries to restrain Jesus from viewing the decomposing corpse of his friend. And Jesus responds: did I not tell you that if you believed you would see God’s power to end death? After giving this reassurance, he issues the Divine Command and Lazarus is fully restored.
Our readings and celebration today revolve around Christian belief that in Christ we have a spiritual connection in all the virtuous people who have gone before us. All saints and All Souls days celebrate the final fulfillment of God’s promises of a holy paradise and the foretaste we experience now as God’s people. Do you remember Jesus’ preaching; the Kingdom is at hand, even among you? Today we celebrate that what Christ announced is true and our unity with Christ and one another extends not just we other believers in this life but in the life to come as well.
It is believed by many scholars that the commemoration of all the saints on November first originated in Ireland, spread from there to England, and then to the continent of Europe. That it had reached Rome and had been adopted there early in the ninth century is attested by a letter of
Pope Gregory the Fourth, who reigned from 828 to 844, to Emperor Louis “the Pious,” urging that such a festival be observed throughout the Holy Roman Empire.
The desire of Christian people to express the intercommunion of the living and the dead in the Body of Christ by a commemoration of those who had lived the faith in days past, is was far older than the early Middle Ages. The patriarch John Chrysostom, who died in 407, says that a festival of All Saints was observed on the first Sunday after Pentecost in Constantinople at the time of his episcopate.
Today, we join this tradition in celebrating our vast spiritual family, in Christ.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Homily for Proper 25 B - October 25, 2009
My sisters and brothers, to be true followers of Christ we must both let go… and grab hold…
In our first reading, Jeremiah sharers God's promise to restore the people of Israel to their former lives. The exile which the people experience as God’s just punishment of their former lives will not last for all generations. The political and military consequences that are oppressing them will come to an end. The people of Israel will be restored to their freedom and their home land.
This portion of Jeremiah’s writing is the text of a hymn extolling the glory of the People’s return to Israel. A procession of the weak emphasizes the miraculous nature of this restoration. The imagery of Yahweh as a father to Israel shows up in various parts of the Old Testament. It first served to define their covenantal relationship with God.
In our second reading we hear from the author of Hebrews about the eternal quality of Jesus' intercession for us. He does not leave office or die. He lives through eternity without need to make further offering for sin. As we talked about last week, the temple priests were under Mosaic Law (the “Old Covenant”). Jesus, the high priest, unlike others, he became a priest at God’s summons and has also become the guarantee of a better “New Covenant.” Therefore, Jesus is the way to God and to salvation for those who are godly because he (as priest) lives to plead with God on their behalf.
From Marks gospel we heard about Jesus healing Bartimaeus of his blindness. He restores the man's sight with the simple and profound statement: "your faith has healed you." Bartimaeus seeks Jesus out actively, is healed immediately, and then becomes a disciple; this is as much a story of Jesus calling a disciple as a story about healing.
There are several other details that make this story stand out. It is unusual because Mark does not normally give the name of someone who is healed. Also, the way he addresses of Jesus as “Son of David,” is loaded. It expresses an acceptance of Jesus as Messiah. Bartimaeus is the first person to do this after Peter’s declaration. And, Jesus does not order him to be quiet about it as he did up to this point. It marks a major shift in the telling of Jesus’ story. Now as He draws closer to his crucifixion the story is marked by this greater openness of the truth about Him.
Becoming one of Jesus’ followers, becoming a Christian, is about many things. Some central elements are embracing him as a healer (or doctor for our souls) as well as a teacher whom we follow through life.
Bartimaeus is a powerful symbolic example of this reality. Shedding what little pride he has left, he calls for the help he knows he needs- removal of his blindness. Having received the blessed healing he sought, he walks away from his old life to live the way of Christ!
In our own lives, a similar dynamic is active. To embrace Christ we must first make room in our lives. We make this room by removing the things that get in the way, the things that take precedence over Jesus.
We must then take on the life long process of being His followers, i.e., study His way of life and patterning ourselves after His teachings and example.
In our first reading, Jeremiah sharers God's promise to restore the people of Israel to their former lives. The exile which the people experience as God’s just punishment of their former lives will not last for all generations. The political and military consequences that are oppressing them will come to an end. The people of Israel will be restored to their freedom and their home land.
This portion of Jeremiah’s writing is the text of a hymn extolling the glory of the People’s return to Israel. A procession of the weak emphasizes the miraculous nature of this restoration. The imagery of Yahweh as a father to Israel shows up in various parts of the Old Testament. It first served to define their covenantal relationship with God.
In our second reading we hear from the author of Hebrews about the eternal quality of Jesus' intercession for us. He does not leave office or die. He lives through eternity without need to make further offering for sin. As we talked about last week, the temple priests were under Mosaic Law (the “Old Covenant”). Jesus, the high priest, unlike others, he became a priest at God’s summons and has also become the guarantee of a better “New Covenant.” Therefore, Jesus is the way to God and to salvation for those who are godly because he (as priest) lives to plead with God on their behalf.
From Marks gospel we heard about Jesus healing Bartimaeus of his blindness. He restores the man's sight with the simple and profound statement: "your faith has healed you." Bartimaeus seeks Jesus out actively, is healed immediately, and then becomes a disciple; this is as much a story of Jesus calling a disciple as a story about healing.
There are several other details that make this story stand out. It is unusual because Mark does not normally give the name of someone who is healed. Also, the way he addresses of Jesus as “Son of David,” is loaded. It expresses an acceptance of Jesus as Messiah. Bartimaeus is the first person to do this after Peter’s declaration. And, Jesus does not order him to be quiet about it as he did up to this point. It marks a major shift in the telling of Jesus’ story. Now as He draws closer to his crucifixion the story is marked by this greater openness of the truth about Him.
Becoming one of Jesus’ followers, becoming a Christian, is about many things. Some central elements are embracing him as a healer (or doctor for our souls) as well as a teacher whom we follow through life.
Bartimaeus is a powerful symbolic example of this reality. Shedding what little pride he has left, he calls for the help he knows he needs- removal of his blindness. Having received the blessed healing he sought, he walks away from his old life to live the way of Christ!
In our own lives, a similar dynamic is active. To embrace Christ we must first make room in our lives. We make this room by removing the things that get in the way, the things that take precedence over Jesus.
We must then take on the life long process of being His followers, i.e., study His way of life and patterning ourselves after His teachings and example.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Homily for Oct. 4, 2009 - Proper 22 B
Three priests and their wives were just coming back from General Convention when they got in a wreck and were all killed. All 3 couples stood in line waiting to get into heaven. St Peter opened the books and said to the first priest: I can see that you were a good man but had one problem. You lusted after alcohol your whole life you never drank but your lust was so strong you would never marry until you met a girl named Sherry. Sorry, you can't come in. The second priest approached St Peter and he said: you were a good man, but it says here you lusted after money and your lust was so strong that you would not marry until you met a girl named Penny. Sorry, you cannot come in. The third priest turned to his wife and said: “come on Fanny, let’s get out of here!”
There are endless jokes about marriage, why we get into marriage and its ups and downs. I hope that by making fun of myself and my fellow male clergy I haven’t offended anyone.
Our first reading today is the newer of the two creation stories. Emphasizing the bios that men have a central primacy. It’s important that when we read and think about this story, that we include the older story. In which man and woman are made together, in the image and likeness of God. Gen. 1:27. The two stories are meant taken together so that one has a fuller picture of the whole story!
In our Hebrew’s reading, the author contrast the old, pre-Jesus days with the lives of Christians. God spoke in the past through the prophets; now he speaks through the one who is Son of God. The author makes the point that Jesus purified us of our sins through his own death; he was then exalted in returning to the Father. Returning to his original place at God’s right hand in the heavenly thrown room.
In our gospel reading Jesus teaches about divorce to which, according to Mark, he is totally opposed. Mosaic Law permitted a man to divorce his wife (but not a woman her husband) for cause, but the grounds were unclear. The Pharisees were divided about the legality of divorce as well as the grounds for it, so their question is an attempt to trick Jesus into a no win situation. He doesn’t fall for it. He shifts the discussion from Mosaic Law to God’s original plan, or the ideal of marriage. Matthew’s version of this has an exception to the prohibition on divorce. It’s out of this “exceptive clause” that our church had built its pastoral approach to divorce and remarriage.
Ultimately, I believe it’s much more valuable for us to look at our spiritual ancestors’ images of woman, man and marriage than anything ells. Wither we are in our first marriages, second or whatever, it’s how we go forward that matters most.
Clearly the Genesis stories see us as created for each other, in God’s own image. Many Christian thinkers have pondered what this means. Part of it is that we are created of the same stuff, and meant to be together as best as reality allows us to be. Neither, separated from the other, is a full image of God, only in our relationships with each other are we resembling that fullness.
Of-course, being in God’s image does not mean that God has to arms, two legs, etc.
That is much too simplistic. It is probably driving at a deeper since of things like, we share in God’s intelligence, and freedom of choise. Yes all our choices have their natural consequences. But our courses of action are not simply dictated by animal instinct. We can chose and act in many different ways that go far beyond basic instinct.
So Christian marriage is expressive of a sacred reality. A solemn and pubic covenant between a man and a woman in the presence of God that reflects the image of God. A community of love and devotion, made between two and maybe including another generation!
Let us never forget, that wither we are married or single; all our man woman relationships (with our spouse, friends, co-workers) have a sacred character. We should be striving to treat each other accordingly.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
First Rocky Planet - Outside our Solar-system
CNN is carrying a great little story about the first discovery of a rocky planet in a distant solar-system. CoRoT-7b is five times the size of Earth and much closer to its star. Probably not inhabitable but a wonderful discovery none the less.
Read it here
Read it here
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Seven Deadly Sins, Mapped across the USA
Yup, your right, some team of students (with a flair for having fun with statistics) mapped out the Sin rate across the US. Actualy, the related the national crime statistics with the traditional "Seven Deadly Sins" and graphed it out as a map.
Take a look its a grate fun, see where your State falls: Saintly or Devilish!
Click Here
Take a look its a grate fun, see where your State falls: Saintly or Devilish!
Click Here
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Refurbished Hubble!
Hay, the refurbished Hubble Space Telescope is returning some great immages. Check out this article in Scientific American.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Reflections on General Convention, 2009
I have spent the past ten days, since convention ended on July 17, reflecting on the resolutions passed and the statements we have made to the international Anglican faith community. The passing of resolution D025 and the forming of a study process to create blessings for same gender unions are significant matters deserving much thought.
Resolution D025 (passed in both houses by a decisive majority) included a fairly direct call to the communion to follow through on its past commitment to “listen” to the experience of the Gay and Lesbian community in their churches. We here in T.E.C. have done so, with D025 stating our present conclusions.
However, we have added a powerful new tone to the statement, D025 acknowledges that the conclusions stated are not unanimously held. Further it maintains an openness to the conservative elements in our church who in the past have been pushed to the margins. As convention came to its conclusion, several conservative spokes persons stated there thanks for the way they were treated during convention, even though they disagreed with the decisions.
The Diocese of Massachusetts has posed this invitation to dialogue for its membership.
The most exciting thing I see in the Massachusetts statement is that it’s really a request for the members of the diocese to enter into conversation, and communal discernment about recent events and the way they will go forward together.
Also the Archbishop of Canterbury has posted a reflection as well. Archbishop Williams, on the other hand has mostly reflected on the structural conundrums facing the communion. As he points out, some are looking for the Anglican Communion to remain a loose confederation of national churches, others are looking for a powerful (pope-like) central government. The Anglican Convenient Process is about trying to resolve that matter. Even though this issue is at the core of our international power struggles (autonomy vs accountability) it is also a distraction from the discernment that the Gay and Lesbian community has called us into. In D025 The Episcopal Church reiterates that called to entire communion. Unfortunately Archbishop Williams seem to have either missed or ignored that call.
Another important issue that underlies the international conflict is about how one does theological inquiry and the discernment of doctrine and discipline. Archbishop Williams is right that the discernment necessary on gender identity issues is deep and involved; we are taking about a huge change in the doctrine and discipline of our church. It truly is about engaging our Anglican custom of keeping Scripture, Tradition and Reason in a balancing dialogue when making such decisions. To my way of thinking, one cannot claim to be Reasonable in reflecting on Scripture and Tradition, if one does not listen to the voice of people who have been victimized by the conclusions drawn in past generations. “Ivory tower thinking” has undergird many of the abuses perpetrated by church leadership over the centuries. The Anglican Communion cannot afford to allow such thinking to continue. Unfortunately, we are not yet talking about the how of theological inquiry and the discernment of changes in doctrine and discipline.
Resolution D025 (passed in both houses by a decisive majority) included a fairly direct call to the communion to follow through on its past commitment to “listen” to the experience of the Gay and Lesbian community in their churches. We here in T.E.C. have done so, with D025 stating our present conclusions.
However, we have added a powerful new tone to the statement, D025 acknowledges that the conclusions stated are not unanimously held. Further it maintains an openness to the conservative elements in our church who in the past have been pushed to the margins. As convention came to its conclusion, several conservative spokes persons stated there thanks for the way they were treated during convention, even though they disagreed with the decisions.
The Diocese of Massachusetts has posed this invitation to dialogue for its membership.
The most exciting thing I see in the Massachusetts statement is that it’s really a request for the members of the diocese to enter into conversation, and communal discernment about recent events and the way they will go forward together.
Also the Archbishop of Canterbury has posted a reflection as well. Archbishop Williams, on the other hand has mostly reflected on the structural conundrums facing the communion. As he points out, some are looking for the Anglican Communion to remain a loose confederation of national churches, others are looking for a powerful (pope-like) central government. The Anglican Convenient Process is about trying to resolve that matter. Even though this issue is at the core of our international power struggles (autonomy vs accountability) it is also a distraction from the discernment that the Gay and Lesbian community has called us into. In D025 The Episcopal Church reiterates that called to entire communion. Unfortunately Archbishop Williams seem to have either missed or ignored that call.
Another important issue that underlies the international conflict is about how one does theological inquiry and the discernment of doctrine and discipline. Archbishop Williams is right that the discernment necessary on gender identity issues is deep and involved; we are taking about a huge change in the doctrine and discipline of our church. It truly is about engaging our Anglican custom of keeping Scripture, Tradition and Reason in a balancing dialogue when making such decisions. To my way of thinking, one cannot claim to be Reasonable in reflecting on Scripture and Tradition, if one does not listen to the voice of people who have been victimized by the conclusions drawn in past generations. “Ivory tower thinking” has undergird many of the abuses perpetrated by church leadership over the centuries. The Anglican Communion cannot afford to allow such thinking to continue. Unfortunately, we are not yet talking about the how of theological inquiry and the discernment of changes in doctrine and discipline.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
The House of Deputies Passes Resolution Embracing Gay & Lesbian Persons in Ordained Ministry
Resolution D024 was passed by the House of Deputies this evening. The house agreed to split the vote by "orders." Meaning that the clergy and laity had to vote separately and that the resolution could only be passed by the house if it was passed by both orders. In essence, this means that the passage required a much stronger majority than would have been the case if a simple vote was called. The voting was as follows, Lay order: 77-31 in favor; Clerical order: 74-35. Very clearly a definitive majority of the deputies were in favor.
Procedurally, this resolution now is passed on to the House of Bishops for their debate and vote. General Convention works much like the legislature of the federal (U. S.) Government. It must be passed by both houses before it has force. Where our church differs from the federal legislature is that we do not have a president who must sign or veto the legislation.
The resolution is long and involved but three elements stand out:
Further, the resolution acknowledges that "The Episcopal Church, as of the Anglican Communion, based on careful study of the Holy Scriptures, and in light of tradition and reason, are not of one mind, and Christians of good conscience disagree about some of these matters." That is to say, the resolution acknowledges that there is not in perfect (100%) agreement on the matter. I cannot personally imagine a better or more honest way to state the present reality of our church. It remains to be seen how this will play it self out in the House of Bishops. But weather it passes that house or not, it makes a significant statement.
Finally, I believe that it is important to notice that this resolution does not mandate any course of action. It appears that local parishes and diocese are free to embrace or ban gay and lesbian vocations as they see fit. The resolution simply states that God may do as God pleases. Although this sounds like stating the obvious, it is profound in that our church has stepped away from the previous notion that God can't or wont call gay and lesbian persons to ordained ministry.
For those of you who like to see the whole text, as amended during the floor debates, I'll include it bellow.
Procedurally, this resolution now is passed on to the House of Bishops for their debate and vote. General Convention works much like the legislature of the federal (U. S.) Government. It must be passed by both houses before it has force. Where our church differs from the federal legislature is that we do not have a president who must sign or veto the legislation.
The resolution is long and involved but three elements stand out:
- A strong continuing commitment to participation in the Anglican Communion.
- A reminder that the entire Anglican Communion committed itself to "listening to the experience of homosexual persons" through the Lambeth Conferences of 1978, 1988, and 1998.
- And affirms that God has called and may call such individuals, to any ordained ministry in The Episcopal Church.
Further, the resolution acknowledges that "The Episcopal Church, as of the Anglican Communion, based on careful study of the Holy Scriptures, and in light of tradition and reason, are not of one mind, and Christians of good conscience disagree about some of these matters." That is to say, the resolution acknowledges that there is not in perfect (100%) agreement on the matter. I cannot personally imagine a better or more honest way to state the present reality of our church. It remains to be seen how this will play it self out in the House of Bishops. But weather it passes that house or not, it makes a significant statement.
Finally, I believe that it is important to notice that this resolution does not mandate any course of action. It appears that local parishes and diocese are free to embrace or ban gay and lesbian vocations as they see fit. The resolution simply states that God may do as God pleases. Although this sounds like stating the obvious, it is profound in that our church has stepped away from the previous notion that God can't or wont call gay and lesbian persons to ordained ministry.
For those of you who like to see the whole text, as amended during the floor debates, I'll include it bellow.
| Resolution: | D025 |
| Title: | Commitment and Witness to Anglican Communion |
| Topic: | Anglican Communion |
| Committee: | 08 - World Mission |
| House of Initial Action: | Deputies |
| Proposer: | Ms. D. Rebecca Snow |
Resolved, the House of Bishops concurring, That this the 76th General Convention reaffirm the continued participation of The Episcopal Church in the Anglican Communion; give thanks for the work of the bishops at the Lambeth Conference of 2008; reaffirm the abiding commitment of The Episcopal Church to the fellowship of churches that constitute the Anglican Communion and seek to live into the highest degree of communion possible; and be it further
Resolved, That this the 76th General Convention encourage dioceses, parishes congregations, and members of The Episcopal Church to participate to the fullest extent possible in the many instruments, networks and relationships of the Anglican Communion, including but not limited to networks involving youth, women, and indigenous people; networks and ministries concerned with ecumenical and interfaith work, peace and justice, liturgy, environmental issues, health, and education; and companion diocese relationships; and be it further
Resolved, That this the 76th General Convention reaffirm its financial commitment to the Anglican Communion and pledge to maintain its full asking for participate fully in the Inter-Anglican Budget; and be it further
Resolved, That this the 76th General Convention affirm the value of "listening to the experience of homosexual persons," as called for by the Lambeth Conferences of 1978, 1988, and 1998, and acknowledge that through our own listening the General Convention has come to recognize that the baptized membership of The Episcopal Church includes same-sex couples living in lifelong committed relationships "characterized by fidelity, monogamy, mutual affection and respect, careful, honest communication, and the holy love which enables those in such relationships to see in each other the image of God" (2000-D039); and be it further
Resolved, That this the 76th General Convention recognize that individuals gay and lesbian persons who are part of such relationships have responded to God's call and have exercised various ministries in and on behalf of God's One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church over the centuries and are currently doing so in our midst, often without the church's recognition of their lifelong committed relationships and the blessings bestowed by such relationships; and be it further
Resolved, That this the 76th General Convention affirm that God has called and may call such individuals, like any other baptized members, to any ordained ministry in The Episcopal Church, which call is tested in our polity through our discernment processes carried out under Canon III acting in accordance with the Constitution and Canons of The Episcopal Church and the canons of its dioceses; and be it further
Resolved, That this the 76th General Convention acknowledge that, while the members of The Episcopal Church, like those in our sister Provinces as of the Anglican Communion, based on careful study of the Holy Scriptures, and in light of tradition and reason, are not all of one mind on this issue, and that Christians of good conscience, based on careful study of the Holy Scriptures, may disagree about this issue, the validity of the Church's sacraments comes from the action of the Holy Spirit in and through them, not from the frail humans celebrating them in God's name disagree about some of these matters.
Friday, July 10, 2009
Prayer Book Committee hearing
Rebecca Wilson has a great report on Episcopal Cafe about a hearing held by the Prayer Book committee on the topic of blessing for same sex unions. Her report is especially good because she reports on testimonies and arguments from both sides of the aisle.
Read it here!
Read it here!
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Convention Updates
Hello All,
The first two days of convention have gone by with out any outrageous excitement. Thank God! I do have a few things to point out as worthy of your attention:
First, Episcopal Life has begun publishing a daily e-paper on the proceedings of the convention. You can find them here.
Today's Episcopal Life Daily has information on the Archbishop of Canterbury remarks to the convention, he is observing as a guest of the Episcopal Church. In short, he spoke of the current world economic challenges and the need for philosophy of business.
Finally, I recommend the story on the budget priorities that has passed out of committee (also in today's Episcopal Life Daily). This promises to be a hot topic.
The first two days of convention have gone by with out any outrageous excitement. Thank God! I do have a few things to point out as worthy of your attention:
First, Episcopal Life has begun publishing a daily e-paper on the proceedings of the convention. You can find them here.
Today's Episcopal Life Daily has information on the Archbishop of Canterbury remarks to the convention, he is observing as a guest of the Episcopal Church. In short, he spoke of the current world economic challenges and the need for philosophy of business.
Finally, I recommend the story on the budget priorities that has passed out of committee (also in today's Episcopal Life Daily). This promises to be a hot topic.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
General Convention Starts Tomorrow!
With the beginning of General Convention I thought I take a moment to share with you some of the resources that will help make sense out of the spin we will inevitably see in the popular press.
First here is the on line home of Episcopal Life, which will carry the latest news of the convention.
Also, this is the “official” video web site of the convention. There should be some fun things posted here.
Finally I recommend Episcopal Café. Many of the Deputies will be blogging here at the café. This may well give a much more in-depth and personal take on the proceedings.
Also, stay tuned here at Eclectic Musings, and I’ll up date you from any other information that come my way. Also, watch for discussion on the various topics.
Most importantly, let all be praying for God guiding grace to be upon our brothers and sisters at convention. From page 818 of the BCP, I suggest using this prayer:
First here is the on line home of Episcopal Life, which will carry the latest news of the convention.
Also, this is the “official” video web site of the convention. There should be some fun things posted here.
Finally I recommend Episcopal Café. Many of the Deputies will be blogging here at the café. This may well give a much more in-depth and personal take on the proceedings.
Also, stay tuned here at Eclectic Musings, and I’ll up date you from any other information that come my way. Also, watch for discussion on the various topics.
Most importantly, let all be praying for God guiding grace to be upon our brothers and sisters at convention. From page 818 of the BCP, I suggest using this prayer:
Almighty and everliving God, source of all wisdom and
understanding, be present with those who take counsel
[in Anaheim ] for the renewal and mission of your Church.
Teach us in all things to seek first your honor and glory. Guide
us to perceive what is right, and grant us both the courage to
pursue it and the grace to accomplish it; through Jesus Christ
our Lord. Amen.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Episcopal Church Strategic Planning Committee
A newly named Strategic Planning Committee has already set to work, announcing that its first step will be to solicit opinions from throughout The Episcopal Church.
The Strategic Planning Committee was established by Executive Council in January 2009 to develop a strategic plan for the Episcopal Church Center and the Executive Council which addresses mission and ministry, growth, finance, challenges and opportunities, issues and concerns, and to map a way to address all these topics.
This survey is a great opportunity for us to give our input to the national level processes.
The survey is Here, click and fill it out! It is short and easy!
Monday, April 27, 2009
Changes in Religious Affiliation in the U.S.
The Pew Foundation has released a further report on their study of religious life in America. This up date details the reasons people leave the churches they grew up in, became "unaffiliated" or joined another church.
Click here
This have very important implications for us in the Episcopal Church. First it should inform our efforts to care for the needs of its members (retain its members). The two highest cohorts are people who simply drifed away and thouse who felt that their spiritual needs were not being met. Issues we can and must address in each of our parishes. for examile: programs that help individual's find engagment with others in the congregation and enrich their spiritual lives will certanly help in retention.
Second, there is important information to help our evangelization efforts. Regardless if the individual was formerly unafileated, changed between Protestant churchs or changed from beign Catholic to Protestant, they sight the same top two reasonds for being in their present church: enjoy the style/quality of the worship service and felt called by God. Obviously, every parish can put energy into growing the depth and spirit of there worship. How one reaches addresses the "feeling called by God" reason I can't say at the moment, that will take more thought.
Click here
This have very important implications for us in the Episcopal Church. First it should inform our efforts to care for the needs of its members (retain its members). The two highest cohorts are people who simply drifed away and thouse who felt that their spiritual needs were not being met. Issues we can and must address in each of our parishes. for examile: programs that help individual's find engagment with others in the congregation and enrich their spiritual lives will certanly help in retention.
Second, there is important information to help our evangelization efforts. Regardless if the individual was formerly unafileated, changed between Protestant churchs or changed from beign Catholic to Protestant, they sight the same top two reasonds for being in their present church: enjoy the style/quality of the worship service and felt called by God. Obviously, every parish can put energy into growing the depth and spirit of there worship. How one reaches addresses the "feeling called by God" reason I can't say at the moment, that will take more thought.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
The Episcopal Church web site will carry a live web cast ( May 13 at 8 a.m. Pacific time)
Mark your calenders, the Episcopal Church web site will carry a live web cast ( May 13 at 8 a.m. Pacific time). The web cast will preview our up coming General Convention.
Read all the details here
Convention this year will almost certainly get back into the controversies about sexuality that have been burning over the past six years. Hopefully this web cast will prepare us all to follow the convention's intelligently.
If you can't make the web cast, it will probably be archived on the Episcopal Church web site for later viewing. However, that arciving has not yet been announced. So, do all you can to catch it live.
Read all the details here
Convention this year will almost certainly get back into the controversies about sexuality that have been burning over the past six years. Hopefully this web cast will prepare us all to follow the convention's intelligently.
If you can't make the web cast, it will probably be archived on the Episcopal Church web site for later viewing. However, that arciving has not yet been announced. So, do all you can to catch it live.
Monday, March 30, 2009
Episcopal Church, General Convention Documents
The "Blue Book" (the official pre-agenda) for the 2009 General Convention is now available on line. This includes all the reports of the past 3 year period and the resolutions proposed for this term.
Read the reports here
Read the resolutions/hand books etc.
As I get the time to read through it, I'll make further posts and look forward to your comments.
Read the reports here
Read the resolutions/hand books etc.
As I get the time to read through it, I'll make further posts and look forward to your comments.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
"Dinner in Abraham's Tent,"
Representatives of the three great faiths that trace their heritage back to Abraham (Judaism, Christianity and Islam) will gather on March 27 in Omaha, Nebraska to talk about peace. Our Presiding Bishop, Katharine Jefferts Schori will be one of the three participants. The other representatives are: Rabbi Peter Knobel, immediate past president of the Central Conference of American Rabbis and Dr. Ingrid Mattson, president of the Islamic Society of North America.
Best of all, it will be web cast! at 8:00 p.m. Central Daylight Time/9 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time and may be viewed at www.trifaith.org.
You can read the Episcopal News Service story here.
Best of all, it will be web cast! at 8:00 p.m. Central Daylight Time/9 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time and may be viewed at www.trifaith.org.
You can read the Episcopal News Service story here.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Episcopal Church prevail in Grace and St. Stephen's church property dispute
Great news for the Diocese of Colorado!
District Court Judge Larry E. Schwartz has ruled in the favor of TEC and the diocese. "Founding documents, various bylaws, relevant canons of the general church and consistent parish loyalty to the Diocese over most of its 135-year existence demonstrate a unity of purpose on the part of the parish and the general church that reflects the intent that all property held by the parish would be dedicated to and utilized for the advancement of the work of [the Episcopal Church]."
Read the article here!
District Court Judge Larry E. Schwartz has ruled in the favor of TEC and the diocese. "Founding documents, various bylaws, relevant canons of the general church and consistent parish loyalty to the Diocese over most of its 135-year existence demonstrate a unity of purpose on the part of the parish and the general church that reflects the intent that all property held by the parish would be dedicated to and utilized for the advancement of the work of [the Episcopal Church]."
Read the article here!
Monday, March 23, 2009
More Drug Cartel Violence in Tucson
The Sierra Vista paper is carry a great story about the movement of how drug related violence is crossing the border from Mexico to the U.S.
Click Here for the story
Be informed and keep your eyes open. Many politicians in both the U. S. and Mexico are trying to spin this crisis to their political advantage. Be sure you keep you eyes on the facts.
Click Here for the story
Be informed and keep your eyes open. Many politicians in both the U. S. and Mexico are trying to spin this crisis to their political advantage. Be sure you keep you eyes on the facts.
Monday, March 16, 2009
U.S. teens are accused of acting as Mexican cartel hit men in Laredo, Texas
CNN is running a story on Mexican drug cartels recruiting U.S. teens as hit men. According to CNN the cartel recruited teens who visited night clubs on the Mexican side. The youths were well trained by the cartel and (because of there U.S. citizenship) were used for killings on our side of the border.
Read the story here
This story comes from investigations, arrests and convictions, lead by the Laredo Police (Texas). I am not aware of this happening in our Arizona border region but it would be truly naive to think that it couldn't.
Read the story here
This story comes from investigations, arrests and convictions, lead by the Laredo Police (Texas). I am not aware of this happening in our Arizona border region but it would be truly naive to think that it couldn't.
Pew Foundation Study
The Pew Foundation has released a new study on religion in the media - no surprise, religion does not get much attention. What is interesting is that other equally important aspects of our society's concerns also got very little attention.
Religion filled about the same space in the news media (1%) as immigration, race/gender and education.
Here is the foundation's release
Religion filled about the same space in the news media (1%) as immigration, race/gender and education.
Here is the foundation's release
Monday, March 9, 2009
Homily for the 2nd Sunday of Lent Cycle B
You can find the Biblical reading here!
My sisters and brothers, let us rededicate ourselves to Christ and his church.
In our first reading we heard about God establishing the covenant with Abram and Sarai. They are childless and advanced in years; they have no heir. So this covenant is a bit outlandish.
A covenant is between two parties, each of whom have benefits and obligations; they enter into it mutually, and either party can terminate it. God’s covenant with Abram is different:
Abram’s change of name is significant: the gift of a new name signifies a new relationship, a new status, a new stage in life. It was believed that such a change altered one’s personality and fate. Sarai shares in God’s blessing, as shown by her change in name. She will be blessed with fertility; together they will produce nations.
In our second reading, Paul uses Abraham as and illustration of his point. Righteousness for Abraham was grounded in his “faith” not in any adherence to the Law. In Chapters 2 and 3, Paul has argued that through the gospel, it is faith that brings humans into harmony with God. Now he considers Abraham as an example. At the time, some rabbis argued that God’s blessings came to Abraham because he kept Mosaic Law (which, they said, he knew in advance – before Moses received the tablets on Mount Sinai.) Paul argues against this rabbinic lore: Abraham was blessed because he believed and had faith.
In today’s gospel story, Peter challenges Jesus about his predictions the spiritual leaders would reject him, he would suffer, be killed and then rise. Jesus makes the point that only those who will use themselves up for the gospel are worthy of life. It is one of the great ironies of our faith. Before this conversation, Jesus has asked his disciples: “... who do you say that I am?” Peter was the only one courageous/insightful enough to give the definitive answer: “You are the Messiah.” This sets up the story for Jesus to predict his Passion for the first time.
Jesus then describes true discipleship: first, a disciple must renounce self-centeredness and follow him. Those who are prepared to give even their lives (“take up their cross”) for his sake and for the sake of spreading the gospel will have eternal life. Again the irony, to get it you must be willing to lose it.
Dedication to God is important. Without it we can be blown on any wind of spiritualism that blows in our direction. It can sometimes require serious effort on our part. Abraham and Sarah are the Jewish archetypes of commitment and loyalty to God - Even in the face of being promised the absurd. They did not walk away. For the second generation of Christians, experience of being required to put faith in what was absurd. That Jesus died (as did most of the prophets before him) was a painful thought. Further more, to believe that he had risen from the dead was beyond reason. Yet, that is how Jesus’ closest followers experienced him and what they testified to as they spread the good news.
Its no secret that we as a Church, nationally and internationally, did find the past three years difficult. The discussions and at times strident debates over sexuality have not been easy on any of us. Some have chosen to keep the conversation going, to not let differences become hatful divisions. Others have chosen the path of spite and some have even run off. We at St. Stephen’s and the vast majority of our diocese have chosen to let Christ be in charge of our church, not issues. We work on sticking together for the sake of being a church and faith community committed to Christ. If we are committed enough to go along for the ride, the Holy Spirit will lead us through any and all challenges.
Today, let us use the Nicene Creed and Holy Communion we will share in a few moments to rededicate our selves to Christ.
My sisters and brothers, let us rededicate ourselves to Christ and his church.
In our first reading we heard about God establishing the covenant with Abram and Sarai. They are childless and advanced in years; they have no heir. So this covenant is a bit outlandish.
A covenant is between two parties, each of whom have benefits and obligations; they enter into it mutually, and either party can terminate it. God’s covenant with Abram is different:
- God makes and establishes it
- most of the obligations are God’s and benefit Abram (making him “the ancestor of a multitude of nations”
- Abram has one obligation: to walk before God and be blameless
Abram’s change of name is significant: the gift of a new name signifies a new relationship, a new status, a new stage in life. It was believed that such a change altered one’s personality and fate. Sarai shares in God’s blessing, as shown by her change in name. She will be blessed with fertility; together they will produce nations.
In our second reading, Paul uses Abraham as and illustration of his point. Righteousness for Abraham was grounded in his “faith” not in any adherence to the Law. In Chapters 2 and 3, Paul has argued that through the gospel, it is faith that brings humans into harmony with God. Now he considers Abraham as an example. At the time, some rabbis argued that God’s blessings came to Abraham because he kept Mosaic Law (which, they said, he knew in advance – before Moses received the tablets on Mount Sinai.) Paul argues against this rabbinic lore: Abraham was blessed because he believed and had faith.
In today’s gospel story, Peter challenges Jesus about his predictions the spiritual leaders would reject him, he would suffer, be killed and then rise. Jesus makes the point that only those who will use themselves up for the gospel are worthy of life. It is one of the great ironies of our faith. Before this conversation, Jesus has asked his disciples: “... who do you say that I am?” Peter was the only one courageous/insightful enough to give the definitive answer: “You are the Messiah.” This sets up the story for Jesus to predict his Passion for the first time.
Jesus then describes true discipleship: first, a disciple must renounce self-centeredness and follow him. Those who are prepared to give even their lives (“take up their cross”) for his sake and for the sake of spreading the gospel will have eternal life. Again the irony, to get it you must be willing to lose it.
Dedication to God is important. Without it we can be blown on any wind of spiritualism that blows in our direction. It can sometimes require serious effort on our part. Abraham and Sarah are the Jewish archetypes of commitment and loyalty to God - Even in the face of being promised the absurd. They did not walk away. For the second generation of Christians, experience of being required to put faith in what was absurd. That Jesus died (as did most of the prophets before him) was a painful thought. Further more, to believe that he had risen from the dead was beyond reason. Yet, that is how Jesus’ closest followers experienced him and what they testified to as they spread the good news.
Its no secret that we as a Church, nationally and internationally, did find the past three years difficult. The discussions and at times strident debates over sexuality have not been easy on any of us. Some have chosen to keep the conversation going, to not let differences become hatful divisions. Others have chosen the path of spite and some have even run off. We at St. Stephen’s and the vast majority of our diocese have chosen to let Christ be in charge of our church, not issues. We work on sticking together for the sake of being a church and faith community committed to Christ. If we are committed enough to go along for the ride, the Holy Spirit will lead us through any and all challenges.
Today, let us use the Nicene Creed and Holy Communion we will share in a few moments to rededicate our selves to Christ.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Anglicans in the Americas share vision
Here is emerging "good news" about the Episcopal Church's relationships with other Anglican Churches in the Americas. Especially worth noting in this article is that several representatives came from diocese in the Southern Cone despite that provinces antagonism towards us.
Read the story here
Read the story here
Thursday, February 26, 2009
The Great Garbage Patch
Scientific American has posed a great 60 second podcast on there web site that discusses the "Great Garbage Patch." This is a floating collection of plastic trash that has coalesced in the Pacific Ocean; first discovered in 1997. Most distressing of all is the new report that the garbage patch is now size of the "United States!"
Here is the link, give it a listen. If we really want to pass a decent home on to future generations, we desperately need to get busy about taking better care of it.
Here is the link, give it a listen. If we really want to pass a decent home on to future generations, we desperately need to get busy about taking better care of it.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
The Episcopal Church launches a new web site
I am Episcopalian, a new web site launched today, Ash Wednesday 2009.
The sight is a delightful collection of personal stories and testimonies of members of the Episcopal Church.
Below is a sample, or just click the title above to go straight to the site.
The sight is a delightful collection of personal stories and testimonies of members of the Episcopal Church.
Below is a sample, or just click the title above to go straight to the site.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Einstein and the conversation between science and religion
Dean of Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in Phoenix AZ. has a grate post on his blog about Einstein's views and the challenges presented by him and others of the same perspective.
In short, Einstein believed in a divine ordering of the universe but doubted that one could have a personal relationship with God. Perhaps, he even doubted that God had personhood.
Take a look at Nick's post and the article he refers to in Discovery Magazine's blogs.
In short, Einstein believed in a divine ordering of the universe but doubted that one could have a personal relationship with God. Perhaps, he even doubted that God had personhood.
Take a look at Nick's post and the article he refers to in Discovery Magazine's blogs.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Homily for the Last Sunday afer Epiphany
As we look ahead to the season of lent, let us plan to make it a time of transformation.
In our first reading we saw Elijah taken up to heaven in the fiery chariot and whirlwind. Elisha, his successor receives a first born’s inheritance (Deuteronomy 21:17 requires that the eldest son inherit a double portion of his father’s wealth). Three times Elijah invites Elisha to travel no farther: he tests Elisha, to decide whether he is truly loyal. Each time, Elisha proves his loyalty, and so the two travel southward from “Gilgal” to “Bethel,” then east to “Jericho” and finally to “the Jordan.” Elijah offers Elisha a reward for his loyalty. Then Elisha requests that he receive the principal (“double”) share of Elijah’s spirituality.
The motivation behind our second reading is that Paul has received a letter from the Corinthian church and set about answering their questions. It appears that some have criticized him for failing to make the good news clear, or for limited success in bringing people to Christ.
Our story from Mark’s Gospel depicts Jesus Transfiguration. Jesus’ glory is revealed to his closest disciples. Again, he orders them to keep silent. What led up to this was Jesus foretelling his death and resurrection, and that God’s kingdom will begin soon. “... the Son of Man must . . . be rejected . . . and be killed, and . . . rise again. He said this quite openly.” Then: if any want to follow him, let them renounce their self-centeredness. Those who play it safe will perish, those who give their lives for him and the gospel, will be saved.
Now “six days” after Peter’s recognition of Jesus as the Messiah, Jesus takes the inner circle of disciples (“Peter and James and John”) up a mountain. There he is “transfigured,” changed in form, metamorphosed. Some scholars point out that Elijah represents the prophets and Moses the law, the basic authority in Judaism. The proclamation spoken by the divine voice is like that at Jesus’ baptism revealing that The Son of Man is Son of God. The vision ends “suddenly.”
Lent is one of those realities that we know almost too well and often misinterpret. It is a season of introspection and penitence for our misdeeds. However, the focus is really much broader than this. Its ultimate purpose is not humbling ourselves. It is reaching for a spiritual goal, or personal transformation. Lent is a season of pursuing personal holiness. This may sound strange but really we are all called to holiness. Not the kind of heroic holiness we read about in the lives of the saints or in the stories of the Bible. We are called to a simple “every day” holiness. This kind of holiness is transforming. It does change one’s life, and the way one is perceived by others.
I am sure you have met and know individuals who just impress you with their goodness. That is a mark of personal holiness. Sometime we are not even aware of the goodness we exude from our selves. This is a season to get back in touch with all these things.
This year, I would like to encourage all of us to focus less on removing something from our lives: bad habits, favorite foods, etc. And to focus more on what we need to add to our lives: daily prayer, a greater awareness of God’s presences, charity, forgiveness of others, etc. During this week please think and pray about these ideas.
In our first reading we saw Elijah taken up to heaven in the fiery chariot and whirlwind. Elisha, his successor receives a first born’s inheritance (Deuteronomy 21:17 requires that the eldest son inherit a double portion of his father’s wealth). Three times Elijah invites Elisha to travel no farther: he tests Elisha, to decide whether he is truly loyal. Each time, Elisha proves his loyalty, and so the two travel southward from “Gilgal” to “Bethel,” then east to “Jericho” and finally to “the Jordan.” Elijah offers Elisha a reward for his loyalty. Then Elisha requests that he receive the principal (“double”) share of Elijah’s spirituality.
The motivation behind our second reading is that Paul has received a letter from the Corinthian church and set about answering their questions. It appears that some have criticized him for failing to make the good news clear, or for limited success in bringing people to Christ.
Our story from Mark’s Gospel depicts Jesus Transfiguration. Jesus’ glory is revealed to his closest disciples. Again, he orders them to keep silent. What led up to this was Jesus foretelling his death and resurrection, and that God’s kingdom will begin soon. “... the Son of Man must . . . be rejected . . . and be killed, and . . . rise again. He said this quite openly.” Then: if any want to follow him, let them renounce their self-centeredness. Those who play it safe will perish, those who give their lives for him and the gospel, will be saved.
Now “six days” after Peter’s recognition of Jesus as the Messiah, Jesus takes the inner circle of disciples (“Peter and James and John”) up a mountain. There he is “transfigured,” changed in form, metamorphosed. Some scholars point out that Elijah represents the prophets and Moses the law, the basic authority in Judaism. The proclamation spoken by the divine voice is like that at Jesus’ baptism revealing that The Son of Man is Son of God. The vision ends “suddenly.”
Lent is one of those realities that we know almost too well and often misinterpret. It is a season of introspection and penitence for our misdeeds. However, the focus is really much broader than this. Its ultimate purpose is not humbling ourselves. It is reaching for a spiritual goal, or personal transformation. Lent is a season of pursuing personal holiness. This may sound strange but really we are all called to holiness. Not the kind of heroic holiness we read about in the lives of the saints or in the stories of the Bible. We are called to a simple “every day” holiness. This kind of holiness is transforming. It does change one’s life, and the way one is perceived by others.
I am sure you have met and know individuals who just impress you with their goodness. That is a mark of personal holiness. Sometime we are not even aware of the goodness we exude from our selves. This is a season to get back in touch with all these things.
This year, I would like to encourage all of us to focus less on removing something from our lives: bad habits, favorite foods, etc. And to focus more on what we need to add to our lives: daily prayer, a greater awareness of God’s presences, charity, forgiveness of others, etc. During this week please think and pray about these ideas.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
More on Christian Faith and Science
Getting back to an earlier posting on Faith and Science....
Today marks the 200th anniversary of the birth of Darwin. This anniversary has brought about much celebrating in the scientific community and angst in the more fundamentalist parts of the christian community. I've talked early about my own view and will post further reflections in the days and weeks ahead. Today let me share a couple of great pod casts from the Scientific American Web Site. They should provide great food for thought.
Click here and enjoy
By the way, you can download them to any mp3 player - you don't have to have an iPod!
Today marks the 200th anniversary of the birth of Darwin. This anniversary has brought about much celebrating in the scientific community and angst in the more fundamentalist parts of the christian community. I've talked early about my own view and will post further reflections in the days and weeks ahead. Today let me share a couple of great pod casts from the Scientific American Web Site. They should provide great food for thought.
Click here and enjoy
By the way, you can download them to any mp3 player - you don't have to have an iPod!
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
How to Avoid Choking Under Pressure
Scientific American has just published a great article on research into the reality that we humans can fall apart when we most want to preform at our best. This is of real value, not just to athletes, but also to those of us who give presentations (or in my case teach preach and sermonize).
Read the article here
Any thoughts?
Read the article here
Any thoughts?
Monday, February 9, 2009
The Episcopal Church's 2009 General Convention
The Episcopal News Service is running a great story on the up coming General Convention. Here is the teaser:
Six months before General Convention, it is already clear that dioceses want the triennial gathering to tackle a range of issues including same-gender relationships, criteria for consenting to episcopal consecrations, the environment, the economy, financing theological education and liturgical change.
Read the full article here. It looks like we are heading for an "Interesting" convention.
Six months before General Convention, it is already clear that dioceses want the triennial gathering to tackle a range of issues including same-gender relationships, criteria for consenting to episcopal consecrations, the environment, the economy, financing theological education and liturgical change.
Read the full article here. It looks like we are heading for an "Interesting" convention.
Homily for 5 Epiphany B
My sisters and brothers, do we have strong enough Christian credentials?
In our reading from Isaiah, God reminds the evil doers that they cannot hide from Divine justes. He sees & knows all. This is dramatized by God speaking through the prophet in a direct address to the people. Can anyone measure God’s domain in human terms? So how can you think you can tell God what to do? Surely he decides what is just; surely he is the source of all “knowledge” and “understanding.”
In our Corinthians reading, Paul further illustrates his view that we should accommodate others for the sake of the Gospel of Christ. He also defends himself against challenges to his apostleship. He has written that, whatever others may think, he is an apostle for he has seen the risen Christ and he has brought many to him, especially at Corinth. However, rather than risk that asserting his “rights” as an apostle might become an “obstacle” to faith for new converts, he will not insist on his rights. Nothing must get in the way of telling, the good news. He has brought people to Christ by becoming as one religiously with them: he has behaved in a way not to give offense to prospects for conversion, to establish communications with them, respecting their customs. He has voluntarily restricted the freedom he has in Christ, making himself “a slave to all.”
In the reading from Mark’s gospel we see Jesus furthering his mission by healing Peter’s mother-in-law and “many others.” That she serves them as a show of hospitality, illustrates that she is completely and immediately cured. Many gather around the doorway of the house to see his miracles. The evil forces recognize his power over them but he intends to show himself as God’s agent later, so he does not “permit the demons to speak” Finally He withdraws to be alone to commune with God. This is another theme that will repeat itself in Mark’s telling of Jesus’ story.
In essence, Mark is going about establishing Jesus’ credentials as prophet and healer. We have various ways of establishing our authenticity. We have picture ID, usually a driver’s licence, sometimes a corporate ID badge or military ID. We also have various kinds of professional credentials: State licences to practice law or medicine; a reputation gained through getting our work published, etc. We even sight long lists of accomplishments.
In Jesus’ day one might be known as a Rabi in the school of X, or of Y. Later Christian teachers credentialed their work by attributing them to a master teacher or apostle of the faith: Paul, Peter, John, etc. Part of Jesus reputation as a uniquely powerful teacher/healer came from the easy he had at doing miraculous things; giving a command, touching someone, etc. Rather, than using elaborate rituals or noxious smelling concoctions.
Nevertheless, what are our credentials as Christians? The time we spend in prayer, public worship, doing good and caring things for others? Are you satisfied with your Christian Resume? A friend of mine once posed the question to a group of us sitting in a pub talking erudite theology. If Christianity were outlawed, would there be enough evidence to convict you?
In our reading from Isaiah, God reminds the evil doers that they cannot hide from Divine justes. He sees & knows all. This is dramatized by God speaking through the prophet in a direct address to the people. Can anyone measure God’s domain in human terms? So how can you think you can tell God what to do? Surely he decides what is just; surely he is the source of all “knowledge” and “understanding.”
In our Corinthians reading, Paul further illustrates his view that we should accommodate others for the sake of the Gospel of Christ. He also defends himself against challenges to his apostleship. He has written that, whatever others may think, he is an apostle for he has seen the risen Christ and he has brought many to him, especially at Corinth. However, rather than risk that asserting his “rights” as an apostle might become an “obstacle” to faith for new converts, he will not insist on his rights. Nothing must get in the way of telling, the good news. He has brought people to Christ by becoming as one religiously with them: he has behaved in a way not to give offense to prospects for conversion, to establish communications with them, respecting their customs. He has voluntarily restricted the freedom he has in Christ, making himself “a slave to all.”
In the reading from Mark’s gospel we see Jesus furthering his mission by healing Peter’s mother-in-law and “many others.” That she serves them as a show of hospitality, illustrates that she is completely and immediately cured. Many gather around the doorway of the house to see his miracles. The evil forces recognize his power over them but he intends to show himself as God’s agent later, so he does not “permit the demons to speak” Finally He withdraws to be alone to commune with God. This is another theme that will repeat itself in Mark’s telling of Jesus’ story.
In essence, Mark is going about establishing Jesus’ credentials as prophet and healer. We have various ways of establishing our authenticity. We have picture ID, usually a driver’s licence, sometimes a corporate ID badge or military ID. We also have various kinds of professional credentials: State licences to practice law or medicine; a reputation gained through getting our work published, etc. We even sight long lists of accomplishments.
In Jesus’ day one might be known as a Rabi in the school of X, or of Y. Later Christian teachers credentialed their work by attributing them to a master teacher or apostle of the faith: Paul, Peter, John, etc. Part of Jesus reputation as a uniquely powerful teacher/healer came from the easy he had at doing miraculous things; giving a command, touching someone, etc. Rather, than using elaborate rituals or noxious smelling concoctions.
Nevertheless, what are our credentials as Christians? The time we spend in prayer, public worship, doing good and caring things for others? Are you satisfied with your Christian Resume? A friend of mine once posed the question to a group of us sitting in a pub talking erudite theology. If Christianity were outlawed, would there be enough evidence to convict you?
Thursday, February 5, 2009
The wonderful (and sometimes frustrating) Siberian Husky
Today CNN is running a story about a sled team in the shadow of an Alaskan volcano which has sparked me to make my first posing about the dogs my family and I are in love with.
Volcano looms over Iditarod dogs, read the story...
There are a some good web resources on the Siberian; there is a lot of junk also. The American Kennel Club gives reliable information but not a lot of detail. The k9web has much more detailed information and is pretty accurate and well balanced.
The Wikipedia article is also pretty good but sounds like the author was a bit frustrated by his/her experience with the bread. I take great exception to the quotation of Stanley Coren's "The Intelligence of Dogs" ranking used in this article.
Coren’s methodology is flawed. Coren used “understanding commands” and “obey first command” as standards of intelligence. First of all, assessing what is going on in a dogs head, whether they “understand” a command is a very difficult proposition. Identifying and accurately interpreting the signs of understanding would require a full blown study in and of itself. Secondly, a dogs compliance (or obedience) the first time a command is given - is more a measure of their desire to please the trainer than a measure of intelligence. Many working dogs need to have the ability to judge when following a command is actually the wrong thing to do. I will illiterate this with an example from the working reality of the Siberian Husky.
When Siberian sled teams pulled loads as real work, rather than as racing teams, it was not at all uncommon for the team to include 25 or even 50 dogs. The number depended on the weight that needed to be transported. The person running the team used only verbal commands to control the team, no reigns or other devises (this is still the practice today). When you are standing at the back of a sled, which is behind a long string of dogs, you cannot possibly see the trail ahead of you. Your lead dog must be smart enough to disobey your command (right, left, etc.) if the trail is not safe for some reason. That dog must also be independent enough to sit there until you come and survey the situation for your self. This is why I take exception to Coren’s methodology. There is much more to a dog’s intelligence than simply jumping when a command is given.
I will write much more about Siberians in the future, for now let me just say that they are wonderful dogs that do have their demanding idiosyncrasies. They are not for every one but if you are able to deal with their unique traits, they will gladly return the devotion.
In this photo, my wife is training Sport (our first Sibe.) on an agility course. This challenge is simply called the A-frame. Sibes are great athletes and love to work.
In this next photo, Spirit and Sophy are resting after a romp. Though they can play ruff, Sibes are great house dogs. They deeply love, and need, social time.
Volcano looms over Iditarod dogs, read the story...
There are a some good web resources on the Siberian; there is a lot of junk also. The American Kennel Club gives reliable information but not a lot of detail. The k9web has much more detailed information and is pretty accurate and well balanced.
The Wikipedia article is also pretty good but sounds like the author was a bit frustrated by his/her experience with the bread. I take great exception to the quotation of Stanley Coren's "The Intelligence of Dogs" ranking used in this article.
Coren’s methodology is flawed. Coren used “understanding commands” and “obey first command” as standards of intelligence. First of all, assessing what is going on in a dogs head, whether they “understand” a command is a very difficult proposition. Identifying and accurately interpreting the signs of understanding would require a full blown study in and of itself. Secondly, a dogs compliance (or obedience) the first time a command is given - is more a measure of their desire to please the trainer than a measure of intelligence. Many working dogs need to have the ability to judge when following a command is actually the wrong thing to do. I will illiterate this with an example from the working reality of the Siberian Husky.
When Siberian sled teams pulled loads as real work, rather than as racing teams, it was not at all uncommon for the team to include 25 or even 50 dogs. The number depended on the weight that needed to be transported. The person running the team used only verbal commands to control the team, no reigns or other devises (this is still the practice today). When you are standing at the back of a sled, which is behind a long string of dogs, you cannot possibly see the trail ahead of you. Your lead dog must be smart enough to disobey your command (right, left, etc.) if the trail is not safe for some reason. That dog must also be independent enough to sit there until you come and survey the situation for your self. This is why I take exception to Coren’s methodology. There is much more to a dog’s intelligence than simply jumping when a command is given.
I will write much more about Siberians in the future, for now let me just say that they are wonderful dogs that do have their demanding idiosyncrasies. They are not for every one but if you are able to deal with their unique traits, they will gladly return the devotion.
In this photo, my wife is training Sport (our first Sibe.) on an agility course. This challenge is simply called the A-frame. Sibes are great athletes and love to work.
In this next photo, Spirit and Sophy are resting after a romp. Though they can play ruff, Sibes are great house dogs. They deeply love, and need, social time.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Evolution vs. Creationism
The Pew Foundation today released a wonderful collection of the views on the issue of Creationism vs. Evolution. Most of the religious traditions represented in the U.S.A. are in the listing with a synopsis of their official perspective.
You can read it here
Personally, I have never had a problem with Darwin’s theory. We have to remember that the authors of the book of Genesis (yes - clearly there was more than one) were not trying to tell a literal history of how God did it. They were expressing their believe that the LORD was the most powerful of gods. That the LORD was responsible for all of creation.
I will simply illustrate this point by reminding us all that there are two completely different stories of creation in Genesis.
Genesis 1:1-2:4; Which describes creation in terms of six days of God’s activities and a seventh day of rest.
And
Genesis 2:5-25; Which begins with the creation of humanity, continues with Adam naming the creatures and ends with the statement of why man and woman become one.
It seems obvious to me that we cannot possibly look at these sacred stories and make the mistake of viewing them as literal accounts, they are mutually contradictory. However, we can recognize the expression of faith in God and the spiritual insight that God has provided all things that we encounter in this world. What mechanism God used (how God did it) is another matter.
Einstein’s theory of relatively was (in part) his attempt to answer this question in the broad scale of physics. Darwin’s theory gives us another piece of the puzzle. By the way, both theories have been substantiated by tremendous volumes of hard scientific research. So do not waste time listening to people who clam otherwise.
What are your thoughts?
You can read it here
Personally, I have never had a problem with Darwin’s theory. We have to remember that the authors of the book of Genesis (yes - clearly there was more than one) were not trying to tell a literal history of how God did it. They were expressing their believe that the LORD was the most powerful of gods. That the LORD was responsible for all of creation.
I will simply illustrate this point by reminding us all that there are two completely different stories of creation in Genesis.
Genesis 1:1-2:4; Which describes creation in terms of six days of God’s activities and a seventh day of rest.
And
Genesis 2:5-25; Which begins with the creation of humanity, continues with Adam naming the creatures and ends with the statement of why man and woman become one.
It seems obvious to me that we cannot possibly look at these sacred stories and make the mistake of viewing them as literal accounts, they are mutually contradictory. However, we can recognize the expression of faith in God and the spiritual insight that God has provided all things that we encounter in this world. What mechanism God used (how God did it) is another matter.
Einstein’s theory of relatively was (in part) his attempt to answer this question in the broad scale of physics. Darwin’s theory gives us another piece of the puzzle. By the way, both theories have been substantiated by tremendous volumes of hard scientific research. So do not waste time listening to people who clam otherwise.
What are your thoughts?
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Still much to learn about this beautiful Earth
Scientific American has a great article about 10 new species of amphibians discovered in Colombia.
Read it here!
This story also sheds some positive light on global warming and other environmental issues. Amphibians are very sensitive to changes in their environment, so discovering new species bodes well for the local ecosystem.
Scientific American has a great article about 10 new species of amphibians discovered in Colombia.
Read it here!
This story also sheds some positive light on global warming and other environmental issues. Amphibians are very sensitive to changes in their environment, so discovering new species bodes well for the local ecosystem.
Homily for 4 Epiphany B - February 1, 2009
Today’s Deuteronomy reading describes how God will replace Moses as spiritual leader of the people. Leading up to this Moses has told them that they are not to indulge in magic of the Canaanites; God demands complete loyalty and will not permit occult practices. Now God, through Moses, promises: to help them remain loyal, he will “raise prophets (like Moses) from among the people.”
In our reading from 1st Corinthians Paul is dealing with a major controversy about wether eating meat offered to a pagan god is ok. Paul’s view is that since no other god exists but Jesus and his Father, how can one be upset by foods offered to idols. But, one is not to let this knowledge make them arrogant, that would be sinful. They are not to let this insight become a scandal for people of “weaker” hearts. You gain noting by eating such food and loose noting by abstaining from it. The point being, members of a Christian community need to extend support to each other not cause one another to fall.
Today’s gospel story has many layers to it. Capernaum was a prosperous town on the Sea of Galilee. A synagogue was the place people met to worship and study the Jewish faith. Anyone with sufficient knowledge could teach so an invitation opened to a new comer was common. Most Rabbis would quote scripture and even other teachers as a support for their teaching. Jesus impressed the people with his independent teachings. Jesus speaks directly, confident of his own “authority.”
The “man with an unclean spirit” brings in one of Mark’s themes that will continue though out his gospel. The secret or hidden Messiah. The devil, speaking through the man he has possessed recognizes Jesus true identity and challenges his meddling in the domain of evil. He recognizes that Jesus’ coming spells the end of the devil’s power. Jesus silences him before he can reveal the secret. Wonder-workers of the day healed using ritual or magic, but Jesus preforms the exorcism simply through verbal commands.
Do we recognize his power for healing in our lives? Or is that something that only happed back in the bible days. Could he intervene in the natural order today and work mysterious things for us? Dare we reach out for such miracles and still trust that God will do right by us even if our prayers are not answered the way we expected or wanted?.....
Personally I believe that the power of modern medicine, which removed the prostate cancer from me, is one of God’s miraculous healing gifts to humanity. Perhaps the mysterious hand of God has been behind amazing moments of healing in your life as well.....
-------
You can find a collection of my past preaching efforts on the web site of St. Stephen's Episcopal Church
In our reading from 1st Corinthians Paul is dealing with a major controversy about wether eating meat offered to a pagan god is ok. Paul’s view is that since no other god exists but Jesus and his Father, how can one be upset by foods offered to idols. But, one is not to let this knowledge make them arrogant, that would be sinful. They are not to let this insight become a scandal for people of “weaker” hearts. You gain noting by eating such food and loose noting by abstaining from it. The point being, members of a Christian community need to extend support to each other not cause one another to fall.
Today’s gospel story has many layers to it. Capernaum was a prosperous town on the Sea of Galilee. A synagogue was the place people met to worship and study the Jewish faith. Anyone with sufficient knowledge could teach so an invitation opened to a new comer was common. Most Rabbis would quote scripture and even other teachers as a support for their teaching. Jesus impressed the people with his independent teachings. Jesus speaks directly, confident of his own “authority.”
The “man with an unclean spirit” brings in one of Mark’s themes that will continue though out his gospel. The secret or hidden Messiah. The devil, speaking through the man he has possessed recognizes Jesus true identity and challenges his meddling in the domain of evil. He recognizes that Jesus’ coming spells the end of the devil’s power. Jesus silences him before he can reveal the secret. Wonder-workers of the day healed using ritual or magic, but Jesus preforms the exorcism simply through verbal commands.
Do we recognize his power for healing in our lives? Or is that something that only happed back in the bible days. Could he intervene in the natural order today and work mysterious things for us? Dare we reach out for such miracles and still trust that God will do right by us even if our prayers are not answered the way we expected or wanted?.....
Personally I believe that the power of modern medicine, which removed the prostate cancer from me, is one of God’s miraculous healing gifts to humanity. Perhaps the mysterious hand of God has been behind amazing moments of healing in your life as well.....
-------
You can find a collection of my past preaching efforts on the web site of St. Stephen's Episcopal Church
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