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Author Archives: Mother Beth Tjoflat
Convincing Jeremiah.
Jeremiah was a reluctant prophet. Today, from the Mt. of Olives, we caught this glimpse of his home town Anatot. I can imagine him growing up, a rambunctious Preacher’s kid, running around and never imagining that God would call him … Continue reading
Posted in Christianity, faith, Uncategorized
Tagged Anatot, Christianity, honesty, hope, Jeremiah, Justice
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The hand of God.
In Anam Cara: A Book of Celtic Wisdom, John Donohue’s description of intimacy speaks of what I have come to know as being present with another. When he speaks of “intimacy as sacred,”[1] he uses the example of a mystic … Continue reading
The only way out.
“The only way out is through.” These wise words were spoken to me some three decades ago, during my initiation into a way of life based on the 12 steps of recovery. The friend who shared this wisdom was communicating … Continue reading
Posted in 12-step spirituality, Christianity, Episcopal church, faith, Recovery
Tagged 12 Steps, 12-step spirituality, Christianity, community, hope, liberation theology, mercy, recovery, spiritual growth, Trinity
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The gift of encouragement.
“I want your voice on my GPS,” my friend Kate remarked a few years ago. She was driving a group of us to a retreat at Holy Cross Monastery, along the Hudson River. As often happens when traveling “country” roads, … Continue reading
With a leap, a whistle and a fart.
With a leap, a whistle and a fart. These words are borrowed from Holy Fools & Mad Hatters by Catholic priest and contemplative Edward Hays. My dear friend Betsy gifted me with this book as I headed off to divinity school … Continue reading
Gratitude for my St. Francis family
The following is my final sermon at St. Francis. Thank you Father Michael, Joan, Jackie, Deacon Linda, Kim, Dominique and Jason — and all of you beautiful people. Thanks to Len and the beloved Glenmoor flock. Your prayers and love … Continue reading
Temporary housing.
The mornings have grown fairly warm, but we all know the real summer heat has yet to arrive. Last week, I rode with a small, dedicated team as they visited a few old friends, including one woman who has been … Continue reading
Posted in Christianity, faith, peace
Tagged Christianity, holy ground, homelessness, hope, inner darkness, mercy, street ministry
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In the vesper light.
Late yesterday I was privileged to attend an interfaith prayer meeting. Though we concluded our time by breaking bread together, enjoying a feast in the salt air and getting to know one another, the primary purpose of our gathering was … Continue reading
Posted in Christianity, faith, Interfaith, peace, unity
Tagged Christianity, holy ground, hope, mercy, simple prayer
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Radical unprotectedness.
Earlier this week, as I was fishing for information on St. Francis of Assisi, I came across a phrase attributed to Simon Tugwell, who describes Franciscan spirituality as “a way of radical unprotectedness.” The meaning of “unprotectedness” seemed obvious to … Continue reading
Four amigos.
This morning I had the privilege of meeting with four gentlemen – “pillars of the community” – who were hoping I would serve on a small community board with them. I couldn’t imagine why they would want me – I … Continue reading
Posted in Christianity, faith, peace, Recovery, Uncategorized
Tagged Christianity, community, hope, mercy, option for the poor, recovery, social justice, urban ministry
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walkingwithclare 