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.

Alleluia! The unexpected happens.

          The Rev. Cn. Beth Tjoflat offered this sermon at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church (Jacksonville, FL) on Sunday, April 21, 2019.     Feast of the Resurrection Isaiah 65:17-25 Acts 10:34-43 Luke 24:1-12 Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 … Continue reading

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Woke by Jesus.

This sermon was offered at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in Jacksonville, FL, on Sunday, April 7, 2019 Fifth Sunday in Lent Isaiah 43:16-21 Philippians 3:4b-14 John 12:1-8 Psalm 126   May I speak in the name of God, Father, Son … Continue reading

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In the darkest of times, love prevails.

This sermon was offered by the Rev. Cn. Beth Tjoflat at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, Jacksonville, FL, on the Second Sunday in Lent (March 17, 2019).   Lessons: Genesis 15:1-2, 17-18 Philippians 3:17-4:1 Luke 13:31-35 Psalm 27   May the … Continue reading

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A hard woman is good to find.

The events of the day and the brutal culture we live in make my heart feel heavy and sad. What is played out in the media and in our communities and institutions makes me angry for what has been and … Continue reading

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“I don’t recall asking.”

My friend Spencer taught me something invaluable. Whenever someone would ask for his listening ear, he would stop them at the beginning and say: “Did you want feedback, or did you just want me to listen?” I have stolen this … Continue reading

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Rough edges and grace.

Today was a glorious day at Church Without Walls. The sun shone brightly, warming us up just enough after a chilly night. We had blankets and other items to share thanks to the generosity of our national church. Dear friends … Continue reading

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Coming together.

In the aftermath of the mass shooting in Orlando (and every other recent and incomprehensible tragedy), it is hard to feel anything other than profound sadness. I want to make room for this overwhelming sense of grief and yet I … Continue reading

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Lasting impressions.

This week I was blessed to spend time with folks from a wide range of backgrounds, cultures and life experiences. In spite of our differences, we share a common desire to live in the life-giving flow of the One who … Continue reading

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A thing of beauty.

The past few months have been a time of rich movement in my life. I have been engaged on multiple levels, which would not be possible without a willingness to let go. The focus that this season requires has meant … Continue reading

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Marked by love.

Today many of us will participate in Ash Wednesday services, offering ourselves – our brokenness and failure and our highest hopes — to the One who created us all. Today we enter the penitential and reflective season of Lent. Church … Continue reading

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