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Category Archives: congregational development
Silenced by love.
Last night during our Church Without Walls Advent bible study, we reviewed the scripture for the third week of Advent. As we read from Zephaniah, we noticed a marked difference between translations. One stated that God will renew us in … Continue reading
“Who are we?”
This sermon was preached this morning at Church of Our Saviour, Jacksonville, FL Christ the King Sunday 2 Samuel 23:1-7; Psalm 93; Rev 1:4b-8; John 18:33-37 Today we are invited to be boisterous and jubilant as we celebrate Christ the … Continue reading
Posted in 12-step spirituality, Baptism, Christianity, congregational development, Diocese of Florida, Episcopal church, faith, Grace
Tagged 12-step spirituality, baptism, Christ the King, church without walls, community, compassion, Ecclesia, grace, healing, holy ground, homelessness, hope, hospitality, inner darkness, spiritual growth, street ministry, vulnerability
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Church Invisible
Recently I reread a portion of Evelyn Underhill’s writing in which she speaks of the Church Invisible (those saints known only to God) and its role in making manifest the kingdom of God. She writes: Christian selves are simply parts … Continue reading
Two nickels.
This past Sunday a man, whom I don’t recall meeting before, approached me during the peace. “Mother Beth,” he said with a sense of purpose that made me wonder what he wanted. He held up his hand. “When is the … Continue reading
Fully alive.
This sermon was offered this morning at San Jose Episcopal Church where I was blessed to preach and celebrate. (Deuteronomy 30:15-20, Psalm 119:1-8; 1 Cor 3:1-9; Matt 5:21-37) “Fully alive.” A few weeks ago I had an opportunity to meet … Continue reading
Posted in 12-step spirituality, Christianity, congregational development, Diocese of Florida, Grace, Recovery, Uncategorized, unity
Tagged 12 Steps, 12-step spirituality, Christianity, church without walls, community, compassion, grace, holy ground, homelessness, hope, inner darkness, radical hospitality, street ministry, vulnerability
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In the moment.
Last night I had dinner with a friend, and we chatted about a number of significant life events. My friend has taken a new job after spending many years at the same non-profit. Times like these tend to inspire us … Continue reading
Love and company.
“Love and company,” said Bear, “are the adornments that change everything.” These are the words from a beloved dog, as imagined or otherwise interpreted by poet Mary Oliver (Dog Songs, p 13). A simple statement — endearing and enduring — … Continue reading
Posted in 12-step spirituality, Christianity, congregational development, faith, Grace, peace, Recovery, unity
Tagged 12-step spirituality, Christianity, church without walls, grace, healing, holy ground, homelessness, hope, inner darkness, radical hospitality, street ministry, welcome
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Under the sycamore.
This past Sunday, a dear, elderly man came to our outdoor service for the first time. He often frequents our Wednesday morning coffee & prayer fellowship. He is always gracious, always has a kind word, always a warm smile. The … Continue reading
By the oaks.
The LORD appeared to Abraham by the oaks of Mamre, as he sat at the entrance of his tent in the heat of the day. He looked up and saw three men standing near him. When he saw them, he … Continue reading
That you would bless me.
Today a new friend shared with me how the prayer of Jabez (1 Chronicles 4:10) has been a spiritual aid for her. The translation she has committed to memory is this: “Oh that You would bless me indeed, and enlarge … Continue reading
Posted in 12-step spirituality, Christianity, congregational development, Episcopal church, Interfaith, Ministry, unity
Tagged blessing, community, congregational development, hope, peace, unity
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walkingwithclare 