Author Archives: Mother Beth Tjoflat

About Mother Beth Tjoflat

Episcopal priest, urban contemplative, playwright, lover of hounds, American of Chilean-Norwegian-Moravian descent. Interests include transformational ministry with the forgotten and marginalized; church planting and congregational development; 12-step spirituality; Hispanic ministry; radical hospitality, and spending time with dear friends.

“It is finished.”

Posted on April 8, 2023 by Mother Beth Tjoflat

“It is finished.”Jesus speaks these words.Bows his head.Gives up his spirit. It is finished. Those words must have been confusing to hear.Terrifying for his few followers,close enough to hear, or for thosewho soon would learn of this tragic outcome. It … Continue reading →

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We must do better.

Posted on October 27, 2022 by Mother Beth Tjoflat

Recently I spent several hours in a pediatric Emergency Department waiting room, seeking care for my son.  Many things struck me as I reflected on that evening, but one thing stayed with me: the crowded waiting room included many young … Continue reading →

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A gentle giant.

Posted on August 12, 2022 by Mother Beth Tjoflat

Rest in Peace and Rise in Glory, Dear One.  This dear saint –The Rt. Rev. Charles Lovett Keyser — served as the fourth Bishop Suffragan for the Armed Forces and, upon retirement, served generously in the Episcopal Diocese of Florida. … Continue reading →

Posted in Baptism, Christianity, community, compassion, Diocese of Florida, Episcopal church, faith, Grace, holy, Interfaith, love, reconciliation | Tagged , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Perspective.

Posted on August 5, 2022 by Mother Beth Tjoflat

Sometimes, when we are in the thick of a struggle or crisis, we lose perspective. That is perfectly normal.  When we are able, stepping back can help us find new eyes to see.  This can be a great gift of … Continue reading →

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America’s national crime.

Posted on August 1, 2022 by Mother Beth Tjoflat

Recently my son and I went on a 3-day pilgrimage to Selma and Montgomery. We were part of a small, diverse group of clergy leaders from Jacksonville. This gracious group welcomed my son, who joined us everywhere, including in the … Continue reading →

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Using anger.

Posted on July 15, 2022 by Mother Beth Tjoflat

Tomorrow marks three weeks of this sabbatical season. Entering into this space has been incremental and will continue to be so; it wasn’t until two weeks in that I began to feel I’d arrived at the beginning of this journey. … Continue reading →

Posted in 12-step spirituality, Christianity, sabbath, Uncategorized | Leave a comment

Sabbath.

Posted on June 21, 2022 by Mother Beth Tjoflat

This morning I watched the sun rise over the Atlantic. The first full morning of my sabbatical time — a much needed respite and time for exploring with my son. He is in film camp while I am left to … Continue reading →

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Words matter.

Posted on February 16, 2022 by Mother Beth Tjoflat

After the Christmas break, my son began attending a new elementary school. The decision to move was not made lightly but transitions can be challenging.  As we moved through the first few weeks, I prayed a lot and there were … Continue reading →

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There is only now.

Posted on May 30, 2021 by Mother Beth Tjoflat

This sermon was offered on Sunday, May 30, 2021 — Trinity SundaySt. Mary’s Episcopal Church, Jacksonville, FL Isaiah 6:1-8Romans 8:12-17John 3:1-17Psalm 29 In the name of God, Father Son and Holy Spirit. Amen. “There is almost no such thing as … Continue reading →

Posted in 12-step spirituality, Christianity, community, compassion, Diocese of Florida, Episcopal church, faith, Grace, holy, love, reconciliation, Recovery, unity, urban ministry | Tagged | 1 Comment

The price of love.

Posted on April 3, 2021 by Mother Beth Tjoflat

This was offered as a Good Friday reflection on the Seventh Word of Christ, at St. John’s Cathedral, Jacksonville. Luke 23:44-49 “Father, into your hands I commend my spirit” At the beginning of this week we saw Jesus welcomed, hailed … Continue reading →

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