Category Archives: Episcopal church
“Romance, finance and self-importance.”
Just this morning I heard a friend make the observation that “romance, finance and self-importance” are the three areas that are most likely to get him off-track. These distractions — trying to find love, scrambling for money or seeking an … Continue reading
Becoming friends.*
It was my privilege to preach this sermon at the 172nd Convention of the Diocese of Florida at Holy Trinity Church in Gainesville, Fl, on Jan. 30, 2015. Micah 6:6-8 Hebrews 12:1-2 Matthew 25:31-40 Psalm 15 O Lord, may only … Continue reading
Commit your way.
This afternoon, a couple of us from Church Without Walls will travel to a meeting of folks committed to ministry on the fringes. Nearly three years ago now, many of these saints graciously received me as a visitor when I … Continue reading
A habit and a habit.
The image that has stayed with me the most powerfully today came when I glanced over towards a new brother (a Benedictine monk) who had come to Church Without Walls for the first time. He was standing in his all-black … Continue reading
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
“Forgotten by us, but dear to you.”
This day I find myself meditating on a prayer from a beautiful Litany for Compassion: “For all who are forgotten by us, but dear to you: We entreat you to hear us, good Lord.“* I think of the pain and … Continue reading
A letter from jail.
The name on the envelop was unfamiliar, but I recognized the return address from the local jail. The letter was sent to the attention of “Mother Beth” of Church Without Walls and made its way to St. John’s Cathedral. It … Continue reading
Growth hog.
On a short walk in the woods, my friend Nancee expanded my vocabulary when she called me this: Growth hog. It made me laugh, even snort a little, and otherwise delighted me. I love this term. It speaks to that … Continue reading
“Nothing bad.”
This week I visited with a friend who has become very interested in our “church without walls.” Her heart for those on the edge – for those who have been lost, forgotten or rejected – is not new. She has … 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
