Our Lent course is exploring the Seven Last Words of the Cross and its been nice to draw on on of my father's books - one inspired by his experience of the Russian Orthodox Church in exile in Paris during the Cold War.
I don’t know your context. I’m a relatively new priest, very happy indeed. However my discernment was enhanced by a disillusioned vicar friend who didn’t focus on the institution but more his ministry and own sacrifices. Provided a more rounded conversation with the selection panel.
Our Lent course starts next Wednesday, focusing on the Seven Last Words of the Cross.
Pictured at my ordination as Priest with Richard, Lord Bishop of Hereford
As friends prepare for Ramadan, I remain grateful to my friend and former colleague Ajaz. Through the example of his faith, I returned to mine, now serving God in Holy Orders. Faith communities can learn so much from each other.
I spoke to a busy Men's Breakfast this morning about his early career as an undertaker in East Lothian. From speeding in a hearse to contorting his face to control a reaction to polo mints - and lots in-between.
Did you know that the residents of Ambridge performed their own mystery plays this year? From Advent to Candlemas, through to the Passion, the Archers tells the story.
Dates for your diary! In February we're piloting at new midweek gathering. Be still is an invitation to step out of the rush and into thirty minutes of spiritual quiet, where you can stop, breathe, and simply be....
As Candlemas draws Epiphany to a close, we are already looking to Lent. Our course follows the Seven Last Words of the Cross. Some sessions will draw on art, music or video.
There is something special and unique about Anglican liturgical choral music. So much so that there's a campaign to get it UNESCO recognised. Find out more and support the campaign at https://tinyurl.com/2usm64xf
We are invited to place a lighted candle in our windows this evening at 8.00pm as we remember those who suffered and died in the Holocaust.
Happy New Year!
A prayer for those who are alone this Christmas.
In our morning prayer recently we had this lovely reflection from Presbyterian minister, preacher, and theologian Frederick Buechner.
I'm attending a training course on Deliverance Ministry. Essentially, it is about ‘delivering’ a person, persons, or even a place, from the various kinds of evil that exist in the world and which cause anxiety, suffering and prevent peace of mind.
Today the Church celebrates St Francis of Assisi, who bore the marks of Christ’s humility and love. He reminds us that true freedom is found in poverty of spirit, joy in creation, and conformity to Christ crucified. May we learn from his witness of peace and praise.
Many are called, but few are chosen. In our encounters with Christ, do we allow him to transform us? A sermon for St Matthew and the Battle of Britain.
https://tinyurl.com/yusta4hf
Introducing our new Ale House website! A big thank you to Ollie Limpkin for his work developing a new online presence for us. The site is user friendly and should show the Ale House to a wider audience. Take a look at www.colwallalehouse.org.uk
My article for the parish magazine about the increased use of AI in our lives and what is means when we outsource decision making to technology. https://revagf.wordpress.com/?p=13
Enjoying our holiday in Scotland. Haven't lived here for years but it's still home.
During WWII, in 1942, a group of Anglican missionaries and local Papuan Christians were killed by Japanese forces and others for their faith and refusal to abandon their communities. They are remembered today as the Martyrs of New Guinea.
Today we remember Monica of Hippo, born in Thagaste (331–387), mother of Augustine of Hippo. She was a Christian married to a Roman pagan but whose life of prayer and devotion was of great influence to Augustine.
We won't be meeting for our usual Prayers for Peace this morning but we can pray this lovely one from John Birch privately.
Nope. I’m very aware of the pain the church has caused.
The church’s wealth allows it do all of the above and more.
It is permissible to have different opinions.
Who doesn’t? You mightn’t but the LGBT community is more diverse than you. Many of our churches proactively welcome LGBT members and provide that space.
The church is instrumental in redistribution of food. The King provides many opportunities for youth enterprise, food production and the environment. I don’t really understand your rant.
Indeed. Spiritual abuse is real and that’s why it’s important LGBT Christians are vocal. The church has failed so many people - yet it also embraces and supports too.
What a bizarre and ill-informed comment. The reality is that many LGBT Christians such as myself live perfectly positive lives. Sorry that doesn’t fit your narrative.
