Brilliance:
"I am confident and serene." (DW, 7.31.09)
"Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you." (Is. 60.1)
Mei Meditatio:
As children of the God that is Love Itself we have within us the brilliant light of Spirit ready to shine forth in divine splendor. In the light and love of Christ, we illuminate the world with compassionate service to each other.
Being a child of God I recognize divine Love within me and reach out to others to dispel notions of separation and affirm the togetherness of all life in Christ.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Daily Word (7.30.09)
Healing:
"I am whole and well in mind and body." (DW, 7.30.09)
"Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body." (Prov. 16.24)
Mei Meditatio:
Thinking, speaking, and acting positivity with a Christ-like mind leads me into greater experience of wholeness, healthiness, and well-being in body, mind, and spirit.
As I focus my intentions on God, Christ brings my awareness into divine expression and I realize that, beyond this relative and fleeting existence, I am completely as I should be as a child of the Living God.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
"I am whole and well in mind and body." (DW, 7.30.09)
"Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body." (Prov. 16.24)
Mei Meditatio:
Thinking, speaking, and acting positivity with a Christ-like mind leads me into greater experience of wholeness, healthiness, and well-being in body, mind, and spirit.
As I focus my intentions on God, Christ brings my awareness into divine expression and I realize that, beyond this relative and fleeting existence, I am completely as I should be as a child of the Living God.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
Airport chapels offer haven to more faiths
It seems that across the U.S. chapels that have been designed to offer passengers refuge and reflection in bustling airports are making changes. They are removing denomination-specific decor, adding special accommodations and hosting services geared to accommodate an increasingly diverse group of travelers flying with faith. While public chapels like those in airports used to be more Christian (and even denomination) oriented, now they are deliberately being made into more inclusive places for rest, contemplation, prayer, etc.
While I'm glad to see more inclusivity and openness being explicitly practiced as an adjustment to the great amount of religious plurality and diversity we have in the U.S., there's a part of me that enjoys the religious specificity of places of worship or prayer. I understand that the airports are attempting to be non-discriminatory and accommodating to the variety of people from many different faiths, it can turn a place of reflection and respite into a watered-down, rather generic, place to be. I think it can take away some of the spiritual uniqueness of a particular chapel if it is stripped of it's original religious affliliation. This is a different story if various religious relics, statues, pictures, and symbols from different traditions are being added to a chapel. This could serve to heighten the religious richness and depth to a sacred space. But I'm more concerned about displacing the "religiosity" and "sacredness" of a chapel by taking away specific religious things so as to make the place less "offensive" to other faiths and more "universal" in nature. But what's the meaning and use of a room that looks and thus feels just like any other room except that it says "chapel" on the doorway?
I know of a certain space at a school that used to be employed specifically for Buddhist meditation and ritual. But recently decisions were made to make this space more accommodating and appealing (non-offensive) for non-Buddhist students and most of the Buddhist paraphanalia were removed, leaving the room looking empty and feeling desolate and spiritually deserted. As a Christian, I would've rather prayed in a room that had Buddhist statues, paintings, and altars than in one that is totally devoid of any religious symbology.
Though this stripping away of religious symbols and texts is not what chapels are said to be doing (rather adding materials from different traditions), it's still an acute tendency in an effort towards openness and inclusivity. Let's celebrate plurality and diversity rather than take away all religious uniqueness and dilute spiritual expression to a "universal religion" or none.
Anyway, the Atlanta Journal Constitution has the story at Faith in Public Life.
While I'm glad to see more inclusivity and openness being explicitly practiced as an adjustment to the great amount of religious plurality and diversity we have in the U.S., there's a part of me that enjoys the religious specificity of places of worship or prayer. I understand that the airports are attempting to be non-discriminatory and accommodating to the variety of people from many different faiths, it can turn a place of reflection and respite into a watered-down, rather generic, place to be. I think it can take away some of the spiritual uniqueness of a particular chapel if it is stripped of it's original religious affliliation. This is a different story if various religious relics, statues, pictures, and symbols from different traditions are being added to a chapel. This could serve to heighten the religious richness and depth to a sacred space. But I'm more concerned about displacing the "religiosity" and "sacredness" of a chapel by taking away specific religious things so as to make the place less "offensive" to other faiths and more "universal" in nature. But what's the meaning and use of a room that looks and thus feels just like any other room except that it says "chapel" on the doorway?
I know of a certain space at a school that used to be employed specifically for Buddhist meditation and ritual. But recently decisions were made to make this space more accommodating and appealing (non-offensive) for non-Buddhist students and most of the Buddhist paraphanalia were removed, leaving the room looking empty and feeling desolate and spiritually deserted. As a Christian, I would've rather prayed in a room that had Buddhist statues, paintings, and altars than in one that is totally devoid of any religious symbology.
Though this stripping away of religious symbols and texts is not what chapels are said to be doing (rather adding materials from different traditions), it's still an acute tendency in an effort towards openness and inclusivity. Let's celebrate plurality and diversity rather than take away all religious uniqueness and dilute spiritual expression to a "universal religion" or none.
Anyway, the Atlanta Journal Constitution has the story at Faith in Public Life.
Institute of Conflict Management holds ecumenical Reconciler's Summit to teach clergy how to diffuse conflict
"NASHVILLE (July 29, 2009) -- Faith leaders from across the Christian theological spectrum gathered at Lipscomb University's Institute for Conflict Management in Nashville, Tenn., this week to learn professional techniques necessary to tackle a challenge common to all faith traditions: conflict."
Conflict management is an integral part of pastoral care duties, so this program will support and further ministerial leadership. The more programs such like this that are enacted by faith communities the better people will be able to deal with disputes, disagreements, and anger. Programs like this serve to bring people together in reconciliation and reunion rather than live with resentment and division. I would even suggest putting into place a center or institute such as this that focuses distinctly on interfaith conflict resolution from a multi-faith perspective.
Lipscomb University's Institute for Conflict Management (ICM) is the Mid-South region's foremost authority and purveyor of academic and business specific resources to equip students, organizations and professionals with skills to minimize the costs of unresolved conflict.
Learn more about this at the Religion News Service.
Conflict management is an integral part of pastoral care duties, so this program will support and further ministerial leadership. The more programs such like this that are enacted by faith communities the better people will be able to deal with disputes, disagreements, and anger. Programs like this serve to bring people together in reconciliation and reunion rather than live with resentment and division. I would even suggest putting into place a center or institute such as this that focuses distinctly on interfaith conflict resolution from a multi-faith perspective.
Lipscomb University's Institute for Conflict Management (ICM) is the Mid-South region's foremost authority and purveyor of academic and business specific resources to equip students, organizations and professionals with skills to minimize the costs of unresolved conflict.
Learn more about this at the Religion News Service.
New Book: Evolution of God
In his most recent book, The Evolution of God (Little, Brown, and Company, 2009), Robert Wright (American journalist, scholar, author) paves a path between atheism and belief, smashing religious misunderstandings as he goes: Jesus didn't only preach universal love; Jews didn't start out as monotheists; and the origin of religion had nothing to do with morality but connection to the earth.Read an interview with Wright at Religion Dispatches about his latest book.
(Picture from Religion Dispatches)
The Christian Roots of the New Age: The Aquarian Gospel
Louis A. Ruprecht writes a fascinating article at Religion Dispatches about the reissue of a 1908 book by Levi Dowling, The Aquarian Gospel of Jesus the Christ, which is a retelling of the gospels. In this book, like similar esoteric accounts of Jesus' life, Jesus travels to India, Persia, and Greece, preaching of a “cord of love” that binds all humanity together. Ruprecht asks what The Aquarian Gospel has to teach us about Christianity and New Age religion.This article presents an interesting critique of New Age versions of understanding Jesus. He emphasizes the importance Christianity has always placed on not only the non-physical side but also the physical side of Jesus' personhood. Creation is not simply immaterial but also material. He also brings out that the New Age movements that were born out of the Christian strands of Western spiritual culture didn't start in the 1960's with the "hippies," but can be traced back to 19th century Romanicism, theosophy, and Liberal Protestantism in general.
It's a good read for those interested in The Aquarian Gospel and the connection between New Age spirituality and Christianity. Read it at Religion Dispatches.
(Image from Religion Dispatches)
"Ethics of Being a Theologian" Article in Chronicle of Higher Ed.
My good friend and colleague Danny Fisher over at his blog has mentioned an important article in the Chronicle of Higher Education delineating the relationship between the academic disciplines of of theology and religious studies. Danny quotes a significant part of the article that hones in on the important distinction:
The best theologians are scholars who have immersed themselves in many of the same academic disciplines favored by religion researchers. Like good religion research, good theology is generated by the application of sound reasoning to empirical evidence. But there is a crucial difference. The religion researcher evaluates that evidence from within a tradition of secular, academic "wisdom." The theologian evaluates the same evidence from within a tradition of sacred, esoteric "wisdom."
The import of this differentiation between the religion scholar and the theologian is that they are both employing the same methodology of using critical thinking to evaluate evidence that can be observed, discerned, and understood by the senses and the mind. However, their contexts are very disparate. The religion scholar is attempting to place her/his self within the traditions of the secular sciences, especially the "softer" sciences like history, sociology, anthropology, as well as the discipline of philosophy. Theologians draw from all of these secular disciplines, but are seeking answers from within a particular religious tradition, doing their work within and for the advancement of the tradition with which they are affiliated.
This distinction between theology and religious studies should not be glossed over and ought to be a more present aspect of public discourse. (Even though critical discussion of religious issues is largely absent from the public sphere in the U.S. I refer those interested to Stephen Prothero's book Religious Literacy).
I did find the article to be a bit overly critical of theologians and the purpose of theological endeavor. The author, K.L. Noll, tends to view theology as less sound and more wishy-washy than religious studies. Nonetheless, it's certainly an essay worth reading for it's insighful distinction between these two important areas of study.
Check out Danny's post.
The best theologians are scholars who have immersed themselves in many of the same academic disciplines favored by religion researchers. Like good religion research, good theology is generated by the application of sound reasoning to empirical evidence. But there is a crucial difference. The religion researcher evaluates that evidence from within a tradition of secular, academic "wisdom." The theologian evaluates the same evidence from within a tradition of sacred, esoteric "wisdom."
The import of this differentiation between the religion scholar and the theologian is that they are both employing the same methodology of using critical thinking to evaluate evidence that can be observed, discerned, and understood by the senses and the mind. However, their contexts are very disparate. The religion scholar is attempting to place her/his self within the traditions of the secular sciences, especially the "softer" sciences like history, sociology, anthropology, as well as the discipline of philosophy. Theologians draw from all of these secular disciplines, but are seeking answers from within a particular religious tradition, doing their work within and for the advancement of the tradition with which they are affiliated.
This distinction between theology and religious studies should not be glossed over and ought to be a more present aspect of public discourse. (Even though critical discussion of religious issues is largely absent from the public sphere in the U.S. I refer those interested to Stephen Prothero's book Religious Literacy).
I did find the article to be a bit overly critical of theologians and the purpose of theological endeavor. The author, K.L. Noll, tends to view theology as less sound and more wishy-washy than religious studies. Nonetheless, it's certainly an essay worth reading for it's insighful distinction between these two important areas of study.
Check out Danny's post.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
My Recent Publication in Faith Initiative Magazine
I have just recently published a short essay in the UK magazine, Faith Initiative, which is a publication dedicated to promoting interreligious conversation and embracing diversity.
In this 21st issue of Faith Initiative I write about my experiences as a Christian attending a Buddhist-founded university (University of the West) and living in a mostly Buddhist community. The article outlines my familial, cultural, and religious background, my experiences dialoguing and "worshipping" with Buddhists, and how being a Christian among Buddhists has impacted and changed my Christian faith and identity.
It's a personal rather than a scholarly article, but it was fun to write and share my spiritual experiences with others in an effort to promote interfaith relations and cultural diversity here and abroad. I was able to mention my alma maters as well as describe how I came to embrace the Unity movement as the best communal support for cultivating my progressive Christian spirituality.
Since only select essays can be accessed on the Faith Initiative website, mine isn't yet available to read online, but will be in a few months (I'll send out a reminder when the time comes). However, if anyone is interested, let me know and I can send a personal PDF verson of the essay via email.
Read select essays at Faith Initiative.
In this 21st issue of Faith Initiative I write about my experiences as a Christian attending a Buddhist-founded university (University of the West) and living in a mostly Buddhist community. The article outlines my familial, cultural, and religious background, my experiences dialoguing and "worshipping" with Buddhists, and how being a Christian among Buddhists has impacted and changed my Christian faith and identity.
It's a personal rather than a scholarly article, but it was fun to write and share my spiritual experiences with others in an effort to promote interfaith relations and cultural diversity here and abroad. I was able to mention my alma maters as well as describe how I came to embrace the Unity movement as the best communal support for cultivating my progressive Christian spirituality.
Since only select essays can be accessed on the Faith Initiative website, mine isn't yet available to read online, but will be in a few months (I'll send out a reminder when the time comes). However, if anyone is interested, let me know and I can send a personal PDF verson of the essay via email.
Read select essays at Faith Initiative.
Daily Word (7.28.09)
Imagination:
"The good I imagine is becoming reality." (DW, 7.28.09)
"Blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears, for they hear." (Mat. 13.16)
Mei Meditatio:
My imagination is that faculty of my being that shapes my thinking and brings forth ideas into thought-substance. As I attune my being to that of God in Christ I gain a heightened ability to imagine love, equality, and justice in my own life and then act on this vision to better myself and society through social engagement.
I envision good and prosperity for myself, my relationships, my communities, and the world and make efforts to express this vision in my daily life through the presence of Christ.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
"The good I imagine is becoming reality." (DW, 7.28.09)
"Blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears, for they hear." (Mat. 13.16)
Mei Meditatio:
My imagination is that faculty of my being that shapes my thinking and brings forth ideas into thought-substance. As I attune my being to that of God in Christ I gain a heightened ability to imagine love, equality, and justice in my own life and then act on this vision to better myself and society through social engagement.
I envision good and prosperity for myself, my relationships, my communities, and the world and make efforts to express this vision in my daily life through the presence of Christ.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Daily Word (7.27.09)
Thank You:
"I am grateful!" (DW, 7.27.09)
Mei Meditatio:
Gratefulness is at the center of contemplative experience. Cultivating a thankful heart nourishes communion with God in Christ. Gratefulness is the heart of prayer, and leads me into deeper experiences of the love of Christ.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
"I am grateful!" (DW, 7.27.09)
Mei Meditatio:
Gratefulness is at the center of contemplative experience. Cultivating a thankful heart nourishes communion with God in Christ. Gratefulness is the heart of prayer, and leads me into deeper experiences of the love of Christ.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
This Week on Unity.FM
This Week on Unity.FM:
On A WORLD THAT WORKS with Revs. Olive and Isola the guest will be Rev. Temple Hayes who is the chair of Life Rights, a Peace Through People Initiative that combines human, civil, and religious rights.
On UNITY CLASSIC RADIO, Charles Fillmore's talk "True Repentance and Forgiveness" (June 20, 1926) will be played.
Also, Tues. at 11am PST/2pm EST on WORLD SPIRITUALITY with Rev. Paul John Roach, I'm the guest in the second of a two-part interview. We'll be talking about interreligious dialogue, East-West interaction, and the importance of peace as necessity for human sustainability.
Listen to WORLD SPIRITUALITY on Unity.FM.
Check out the program listing for this week.
On A WORLD THAT WORKS with Revs. Olive and Isola the guest will be Rev. Temple Hayes who is the chair of Life Rights, a Peace Through People Initiative that combines human, civil, and religious rights.
On UNITY CLASSIC RADIO, Charles Fillmore's talk "True Repentance and Forgiveness" (June 20, 1926) will be played.
Also, Tues. at 11am PST/2pm EST on WORLD SPIRITUALITY with Rev. Paul John Roach, I'm the guest in the second of a two-part interview. We'll be talking about interreligious dialogue, East-West interaction, and the importance of peace as necessity for human sustainability.
Listen to WORLD SPIRITUALITY on Unity.FM.
Check out the program listing for this week.
Do Animals Have Religion?
"If animals can communicate, not only with one another but with us, haven’t they transcended their own condition? And, as we know, transcendence is key to religious experience..." (RD, 7.22.09)
S. Brent Plate writes on a fascinating subject for Religion Dispatches: animals and the possibility that they might practice religion.
After reflecting on a New York Times Magazine article, Plate asks a provoking question that we ought to seriously entertain: "If animals like non-human primates ... and cetaceans have shown themselves to have highly developed communication skills (possibly higher than homo sapiens), self-awareness, tool use, a refined memory apparatus, and even dreams, can they also have religion?" Religion, as with culture and language, is predicated on such abilities.
I appreciate that Plate expresses the necessity to define or re-define terms like "religion," "transcendence," and perhaps even "self," particularly when it comes to thinking about animals and the prospect of them practicing what we call religion. All of these terms are difficult enough to define when we're dealing with the plurality, diversity, and ambiguity of humanity; even more so when we tread into the realm of non-human animals. It's a truly treacherous arena of linguistic employment.
Nonetheless, as an animal lover, the matter is intriguing to me. Does my Jack Russel Terrier (Bandit) have self-transcending thoughts or experiences? Does he have his own kind of religious praxis? I could probably spend hours upon hours or days entertaining such ideas and they certainly should be pursued critically and analytically by someone. But, alas, for me, I must focus on that whole PhD dissertation thing.
Read Plate's thought-provoking essay at Religion Dispatches.
S. Brent Plate writes on a fascinating subject for Religion Dispatches: animals and the possibility that they might practice religion.
After reflecting on a New York Times Magazine article, Plate asks a provoking question that we ought to seriously entertain: "If animals like non-human primates ... and cetaceans have shown themselves to have highly developed communication skills (possibly higher than homo sapiens), self-awareness, tool use, a refined memory apparatus, and even dreams, can they also have religion?" Religion, as with culture and language, is predicated on such abilities.
I appreciate that Plate expresses the necessity to define or re-define terms like "religion," "transcendence," and perhaps even "self," particularly when it comes to thinking about animals and the prospect of them practicing what we call religion. All of these terms are difficult enough to define when we're dealing with the plurality, diversity, and ambiguity of humanity; even more so when we tread into the realm of non-human animals. It's a truly treacherous arena of linguistic employment.
Nonetheless, as an animal lover, the matter is intriguing to me. Does my Jack Russel Terrier (Bandit) have self-transcending thoughts or experiences? Does he have his own kind of religious praxis? I could probably spend hours upon hours or days entertaining such ideas and they certainly should be pursued critically and analytically by someone. But, alas, for me, I must focus on that whole PhD dissertation thing.
Read Plate's thought-provoking essay at Religion Dispatches.
25 Reasons Twitter is Spiritual
Frederic A. Brussat from Spirituality and Practice, an online community dedicated to promoting a diversity of spiritual paths, gives an interesting list of 25 reasons why Twitter and "twittering" can be considered a spiritual practice and is conducive to spiritual growth and development.
Some of my favorites are: "15.) Twitter proves that although we think we are living in a universe, it's really a pluriverse of voices." [It's true, we live in a world of dynamic plurality and this rich diversity must be cherished and celebrated.]; "20.) Twitter helps us banish boredom when we realize that there is always something new to be seen, felt, or made known." [I like this because it lifts up the truth that spiritual growth can be experienced anywhere at anytime and that the fresh change of transformation is always at hand.]; and "25.) Twitter helps us to relearn the arts of generosity wherein we give to others that which means the most to us." [Generosity of giving and receiving in acts of gratitude are essential to success on one's spiritual path, and I suppose, it's true, social utility networks can certainly foster more of this practice.]
Check out Brussat's complete list here.
Read a review at Religion News Service.
Some of my favorites are: "15.) Twitter proves that although we think we are living in a universe, it's really a pluriverse of voices." [It's true, we live in a world of dynamic plurality and this rich diversity must be cherished and celebrated.]; "20.) Twitter helps us banish boredom when we realize that there is always something new to be seen, felt, or made known." [I like this because it lifts up the truth that spiritual growth can be experienced anywhere at anytime and that the fresh change of transformation is always at hand.]; and "25.) Twitter helps us to relearn the arts of generosity wherein we give to others that which means the most to us." [Generosity of giving and receiving in acts of gratitude are essential to success on one's spiritual path, and I suppose, it's true, social utility networks can certainly foster more of this practice.]
Check out Brussat's complete list here.
Read a review at Religion News Service.
Episcopal Church Walks with American Clergy on Gay and Lesbian Equality
"Despite worldwide calls from conservative Anglicans that the American church is choosing to “walk apart” from the wider community, the numbers don't agree—at least not in America." (RD, 7.21.09)
Last week, the Episcopal Church lifted a de facto moratorium on ordaining gay and lesbian bishops, and voted to give bishops wide discretion regarding local clergy blessing same-sex unions, especially in states where same-sex marriage or union is legal, giving them permission to provide an important pastoral duty to gay and lesbian couples.
Because of these measures many conservatives in the States but also around the world in the Anglican Communion have accused the Episcopalians of deviating from the rest of Anglicanism on this issue. However, Robert P. Jones and Daniel Cox in a Religion Dispatches article suggest that the statistics don't agree with the conservative position. Nearly three-quarters (72%) of Episcopal clergy say that gays and lesbians should be eligible for ordination without special requir
ements. Also, the views of Episcopalian clergy are fairly approximate to the views of clergy from most mainline Protestant denominations. Among clergy in the seven largest mainline denominations, all except two show majority support for ordaining gay and lesbian clergy with no special requirements. Episcopal clergy express stronger support than every other denomination except the United Church of Christ (UCC).
In my denomination, Unity, which is part of the New Thought movement, has always supported the ordination of ministers based on their character and spiritual evolution, not on sexual orientation, ethnicity, gender, etc. Indeed, Unity has never had any rules or regulations in place that have limited one's eligibility for the ministry based on their sexual orientation, an issue of being not choice. It's simply not in line with the conviction that God is omnipresent in all creation and that we all are created children of God. I must say, I'm quite proud to be a part of such a legacy of equality, justice, and love in ministerial leadership training.
Check out Jones and Cox's intriguing and informative essay at Religion Dispatches.
(Above image from Religion Dispatches.)
Last week, the Episcopal Church lifted a de facto moratorium on ordaining gay and lesbian bishops, and voted to give bishops wide discretion regarding local clergy blessing same-sex unions, especially in states where same-sex marriage or union is legal, giving them permission to provide an important pastoral duty to gay and lesbian couples.
Because of these measures many conservatives in the States but also around the world in the Anglican Communion have accused the Episcopalians of deviating from the rest of Anglicanism on this issue. However, Robert P. Jones and Daniel Cox in a Religion Dispatches article suggest that the statistics don't agree with the conservative position. Nearly three-quarters (72%) of Episcopal clergy say that gays and lesbians should be eligible for ordination without special requir
ements. Also, the views of Episcopalian clergy are fairly approximate to the views of clergy from most mainline Protestant denominations. Among clergy in the seven largest mainline denominations, all except two show majority support for ordaining gay and lesbian clergy with no special requirements. Episcopal clergy express stronger support than every other denomination except the United Church of Christ (UCC).In my denomination, Unity, which is part of the New Thought movement, has always supported the ordination of ministers based on their character and spiritual evolution, not on sexual orientation, ethnicity, gender, etc. Indeed, Unity has never had any rules or regulations in place that have limited one's eligibility for the ministry based on their sexual orientation, an issue of being not choice. It's simply not in line with the conviction that God is omnipresent in all creation and that we all are created children of God. I must say, I'm quite proud to be a part of such a legacy of equality, justice, and love in ministerial leadership training.
Check out Jones and Cox's intriguing and informative essay at Religion Dispatches.
(Above image from Religion Dispatches.)
Apocalypse Earth: What Would Jesus Say About the Approaching Environmental “End Times”?
"Does Christianity have any workable teachings for an age of global concerns? Were Jesus to return on this 40th anniversary of the moon landing to preach a “Sermon on the Moon,” “Consider the lilies” would become “consider the ecosystem,” and a “house built upon sand” would be, well, just about any house built on any shoreline in the world." (RD, 7.20.09)Clark Strand writes a compelling article about the need for a theology explicitly centered on and guided by global environmental concerns. He provides an interesting commentary on how our worldview has drastically changed since Jesus' time and imagines that Jesus would be addressing the ecological crises that affect our individual and social well-being.
This is certainly an issue to be kept in mind by those of us who engage in theological discourse and are in positions of leadership in our congregations. We should be able to provide a Christ-centered prophetic voice about addressing issues of global environmental concern and reinterpreting Jesus' teachings for our own age.
Read Strand's essay at Religion Dispatches.
(Image from Religion Dispatches.)
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Daily Word (7.26.09)
Foundation:
"I give from a consciousness of divine wisdom." (DW, 7.26.09)"Therefore encourage one another and build up each other, as indeed you are doing." (1 Thess. 5.11)
Mei Meditatio:
When I give it is endowed with optimum potential and presence when I give from an awareness participating in God's wisdom and love.
Through Christ, my giving is quickened and made more efficient and effective in splendor.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Daily Word (7.25.09)
Protected:
"I am secure in the presence of God." (DW, 7.25.09)
Mei Meditatio:
With an understanding faith that God is ever-present in my life and being, I feel safe and secure, knowing that all is in Divine Order.
Through the love and power of Christ Jesus, I am refreshed and re-energized. I participate in the omnipotent, omniscient guidance of God in Christ.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
Mei Meditatio:
With an understanding faith that God is ever-present in my life and being, I feel safe and secure, knowing that all is in Divine Order.
Through the love and power of Christ Jesus, I am refreshed and re-energized. I participate in the omnipotent, omniscient guidance of God in Christ.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Scientology on Interfaith Voices
This week on the Interfaith Voices radio program the subject is greatly centered on the Church of Scientology, the American-born new religion based on the writings and teachings of science fiction writer L. Ron Hubbard.
I've always been a bit skeptical of any organization that is so very secretive about their soteriology and, even more importantly, requires a rather substantial fee (not a voluntary donation) for furtherance on its path. I have nothing against Scientologists as individuals, only the seemingly avaricious and esoteric tenor with which many Scientology institutions apparently operate. I'm interested in learning more about this religion and the good it may be doing, but perhaps Scientology as a whole could be more forthright about their history, beliefs, and practices and less profiteering in their effort to help others live better lives.
As a progressive Christian in the Unity tradition I believe that all religious traditions and spiritualities have good within them and contain value for some people (though not all). All religious perspectives are, to use the famous metaphor, pathways winding in unique ways up the same mountain of Life and Reality, working their way toward the summit. Each path has its own environment with its own twists and turns, and each of these pathways will term the summit differently, though its nonetheless the same summit. Thus, as all is interconnected and valued in Oneness I cannot say that the tenets of Scientology are inherently dubious or false -- it contains good and truth. But, if Scientology adherents engage in practices that hinder people's spiritual growth through greed, inequality, exploitation, etc. (as with any other religion) I must denounce those practices, not necessarily Scientology itself.
Anyway, since Scientology is certainly surrounded by controversy and heated debate, this week's Interfaith Voices program should give us some more perspective (from both Scientology and non-Scientology angles) on this rather new and intriguing religion.
Listen at Interfaith Voices.
I've always been a bit skeptical of any organization that is so very secretive about their soteriology and, even more importantly, requires a rather substantial fee (not a voluntary donation) for furtherance on its path. I have nothing against Scientologists as individuals, only the seemingly avaricious and esoteric tenor with which many Scientology institutions apparently operate. I'm interested in learning more about this religion and the good it may be doing, but perhaps Scientology as a whole could be more forthright about their history, beliefs, and practices and less profiteering in their effort to help others live better lives.
As a progressive Christian in the Unity tradition I believe that all religious traditions and spiritualities have good within them and contain value for some people (though not all). All religious perspectives are, to use the famous metaphor, pathways winding in unique ways up the same mountain of Life and Reality, working their way toward the summit. Each path has its own environment with its own twists and turns, and each of these pathways will term the summit differently, though its nonetheless the same summit. Thus, as all is interconnected and valued in Oneness I cannot say that the tenets of Scientology are inherently dubious or false -- it contains good and truth. But, if Scientology adherents engage in practices that hinder people's spiritual growth through greed, inequality, exploitation, etc. (as with any other religion) I must denounce those practices, not necessarily Scientology itself.
Anyway, since Scientology is certainly surrounded by controversy and heated debate, this week's Interfaith Voices program should give us some more perspective (from both Scientology and non-Scientology angles) on this rather new and intriguing religion.
Listen at Interfaith Voices.
Daily Word (7.24.09)
Let Go, Let God:
"New and wondrous joys await me." (DW, 7.24.09)
"Trust in the Lord with all your might, and do not rely on your own insight." (Prov. 3.5)
Mei Meditatio:
When difficulties and problems arise in my life I know that I'm able to overcome through the power and presence of Christ. Even when situations seem unbearable and circumstances are ostensibly taking me over, I'm able to center myself in God through Christ Jesus and become empowered and inspired to rise above and get through any troubles I'm experiencing.
I do not trust in my own personal perspective and knowledge but in God's ultimacy and wisdom to forward me into greater understanding in my life. God is Good; God is Love. I tap into this Goodness and Love as I prayerfully sit in the Silence and become open to Divine Inspiration.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
"Trust in the Lord with all your might, and do not rely on your own insight." (Prov. 3.5)
Mei Meditatio:
When difficulties and problems arise in my life I know that I'm able to overcome through the power and presence of Christ. Even when situations seem unbearable and circumstances are ostensibly taking me over, I'm able to center myself in God through Christ Jesus and become empowered and inspired to rise above and get through any troubles I'm experiencing.
I do not trust in my own personal perspective and knowledge but in God's ultimacy and wisdom to forward me into greater understanding in my life. God is Good; God is Love. I tap into this Goodness and Love as I prayerfully sit in the Silence and become open to Divine Inspiration.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Daily Word (7.23.09)
Sacred Connection:
"We are beloved of God." (DW, 7.23.09)
"Like good stewards of the manifold grace of God, serve one another with whatever gift each of you has received." (1 Peter 4.10)
Mei Meditatio:
The Spirit of God is within me and every other individual. This inspiring, loving Presence enables me to do the good, make the benefit, and give the love I'm inherently created to engender.
With the power of the love of Christ, I overcome all obstacles in the way of experiencing God's presence and help others in this magnificent endeavor.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen
"We are beloved of God." (DW, 7.23.09)
"Like good stewards of the manifold grace of God, serve one another with whatever gift each of you has received." (1 Peter 4.10)
Mei Meditatio:
The Spirit of God is within me and every other individual. This inspiring, loving Presence enables me to do the good, make the benefit, and give the love I'm inherently created to engender.
With the power of the love of Christ, I overcome all obstacles in the way of experiencing God's presence and help others in this magnificent endeavor.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Daily Word (7.22.09)
Centered:
"I live in harmony with all Creation." (DW, 7.22.09)
"Agree with God and be at peace; in this way good will come to you." (Job 22.21)
Mei Meditatio:
As part of God's good Creation, I live interdependently with all sentient beings, regardless of my conscious awareness of this truth at the time. My actions affect others' and the extent to which I deliberately give love and compassion to others is the extent to which I will receive this good in my life, since all are intimately interrelated in Oneness.
When I center myself in God through the lovingkindness and righteousness of Christ Jesus' presence in my life I experience peace and contentedness.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
"I live in harmony with all Creation." (DW, 7.22.09)
"Agree with God and be at peace; in this way good will come to you." (Job 22.21)
Mei Meditatio:
As part of God's good Creation, I live interdependently with all sentient beings, regardless of my conscious awareness of this truth at the time. My actions affect others' and the extent to which I deliberately give love and compassion to others is the extent to which I will receive this good in my life, since all are intimately interrelated in Oneness.
When I center myself in God through the lovingkindness and righteousness of Christ Jesus' presence in my life I experience peace and contentedness.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Daily Word (7.21.09)
Shine:
"I shine the light of love and understanding." (DW, 7.21.09)
"I will give you as a light to the nations, that my salvation shall reach to the end of the earth." (Is. 49.6)
Mei Meditatio:
Shining forth my divine heritage is my true nature. United with Christ, divine love flows out from me with radiant affect and splendor.
I am grateful for God in Christ and for the love that is at the center of Being. I enact this loving Being in my daily living.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
"I shine the light of love and understanding." (DW, 7.21.09)
"I will give you as a light to the nations, that my salvation shall reach to the end of the earth." (Is. 49.6)
Mei Meditatio:
Shining forth my divine heritage is my true nature. United with Christ, divine love flows out from me with radiant affect and splendor.
I am grateful for God in Christ and for the love that is at the center of Being. I enact this loving Being in my daily living.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
Monday, July 20, 2009
Me on Unity.FM this Week
For those interested, I'll be making an appearance as guest on the Unity.FM radio program "World Spirituality" this and next Tuesday (7.21 and 7.28) at 11 am PST/2 pm EST for a two-part discussion about my transition from a Christian seminary to Buddhist university and the importance and practice of interreligious dialogue.
Listen to this interview at Unity.FM.
Check out this week's Unity.FM programming.
Listen to this interview at Unity.FM.
Check out this week's Unity.FM programming.
New Book Out About Discipleship and Eco-justice
The environmental movement is now firmly rooted among Christians, with individuals, churches, communities, and non-profit groups embracing eco-justice as a central and significant part of discipleship. 50 Ways to Help Save the Earth: How You and Your Church Can Make a Difference (Westminster John Knox Press) is a new book out by environmental activist Rebecca Barnes-Davies that clarifies this important connection between stewardship of the earth and living out one's faith in God in Christ.
Barnes-Davies says, "Our task is to learn to reshape our lives to honor rather than destroy God's creation ... If we are to save the earth, we must save it from ourselves." This book restates and reinforces the values of conservation by reducing, reusing, recycling, gardening, and (most difficult, in my opinion) knowing when to say "enough" and be content with what one has. It's important to take action engaging in advocacy and eco-justice activity, yet it's also about "not doing" in the sense of discerning when to let go of control, doing no harm, resting, celebrating, and trusting that God is also working to care for creation via other means.
Check out a review of the book at RNS.
Barnes-Davies says, "Our task is to learn to reshape our lives to honor rather than destroy God's creation ... If we are to save the earth, we must save it from ourselves." This book restates and reinforces the values of conservation by reducing, reusing, recycling, gardening, and (most difficult, in my opinion) knowing when to say "enough" and be content with what one has. It's important to take action engaging in advocacy and eco-justice activity, yet it's also about "not doing" in the sense of discerning when to let go of control, doing no harm, resting, celebrating, and trusting that God is also working to care for creation via other means.
Check out a review of the book at RNS.
Rabbis and Imams visit U.S. for dialogue
"A group of 28 imams and rabbis from 10 European countries arrived in New York and Washington this week for whirlwind visits to interfaith centers to break new ground on Muslim-Jewish relations and combat Islamophobia and anti-Semitism in each other's communities. They will receive instructions from teams of American rabbis and imams who will show the Europeans how American-style ecumenism works on the ground. It's the first visit of its kind to involve foreign Muslim and Jewish leaders coming to the U.S., where interreligious ties have a much longer history and track record of success." (J. Duin, Wash. Times)
I think this is a bit of a testament to the groundwork and success of interfaith dialogues between rather disparate religious groups in the U.S. Not that this kind of activity hasn't met success elsewhere, but due to the context of intense plurality and diversity characteristic of the U.S. there is more opportunity to work towards ecumenism and religious communities are often more likely to dialogue because its the only peaceable alternative to intolerant anger, hate, and violence that can come between different religious people.
Anyway, I'm pleased to see the U.S. being held up as a model for interfaith relations, in this case, for Muslim-Jewish peaceful interaction and learning.
Read the full article at Faith in Public Life by Julia Duin of the Washington Times.
I think this is a bit of a testament to the groundwork and success of interfaith dialogues between rather disparate religious groups in the U.S. Not that this kind of activity hasn't met success elsewhere, but due to the context of intense plurality and diversity characteristic of the U.S. there is more opportunity to work towards ecumenism and religious communities are often more likely to dialogue because its the only peaceable alternative to intolerant anger, hate, and violence that can come between different religious people.
Anyway, I'm pleased to see the U.S. being held up as a model for interfaith relations, in this case, for Muslim-Jewish peaceful interaction and learning.
Read the full article at Faith in Public Life by Julia Duin of the Washington Times.
Daily Word (7.20.09)
Grace:
"Grace inspires me to bless others." (DW, 7.20.09)
"According to the grace of God given to me, like a skilled master builder I laid a foundation, and someone else is building on it." (1 Cor. 3.10)
Mei Meditatio:
Grace is the ever-present power and presence of Love and Ability to do the good I wish to see enacted in my life and others'. As I welcome God's grace into my living I share in the righteousness of Christ and become a blessing for others through my thoughts, words, and actions.
Touched by the love of grace, I am inspired to advocate for equality and justice through the love of Christ in my life wherever I go.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
"Grace inspires me to bless others." (DW, 7.20.09)
"According to the grace of God given to me, like a skilled master builder I laid a foundation, and someone else is building on it." (1 Cor. 3.10)
Mei Meditatio:
Grace is the ever-present power and presence of Love and Ability to do the good I wish to see enacted in my life and others'. As I welcome God's grace into my living I share in the righteousness of Christ and become a blessing for others through my thoughts, words, and actions.
Touched by the love of grace, I am inspired to advocate for equality and justice through the love of Christ in my life wherever I go.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
Saturday, July 18, 2009
World Day of Prayer – September 10, 2009
Join Unity in September for World Day of Prayer. This annual celebration affirms peace, abundance and love for individuals and the world. This year’s theme "Reach in. Reach out. We Can Change the World" reflects the importance of going within for guidance and reaching out to help others and benefit for the good of society. The 24-hour prayer vigil will include a new interactive online prayer feature this year. Sign up to pray for people around the world, and submit your list of loved ones to receive prayer support.
Visit the World Day of Prayer website for more info about the event and what you can do locally.
Visit the World Day of Prayer website for more info about the event and what you can do locally.
A Remembrance of Walter Cronkite from Interfaith Alliance
With the passing of legendary journalist Walter Cronkite, Welton Gaddy, president of the Interfaith Alliance, has forwarded a letter acknowledging Mr. Cronkite's connection to and participation in I.A. Mr. Cronkite has been affiliated with I.A. since 1997 and was its honorary chair. He had expressed a commitment to the core values of the I.A. which are respect for diversity and the importance of religious liberty, especially in the U.S.
Below is a copy of Rev. Dr. Gaddy's letter:
"I would like to express my deep sorrow on the passing of Walter Cronkite, our honorary chair. Mr. Cronkite has been affiliated with Interfaith Alliance since 1997. He told me at our first meeting that "nothing less is at stake in the work of the Interfaith Alliance then the existence of democracy as we know it."
Our nation has lost a true patriot and an exemplary citizen. The news media has lost a committed truth-teller who epitomized journalistic responsibility. Interfaith Alliance has lost a proud supporter and respected Honorary Chairman of the Board. I have lost an inspiring hero and a dear personal friend.
Walter Cronkite embodied the core values espoused by Interfaith Alliance-integrity and civility, respect for diversity and the importance of religious liberty. In venues across the nation and around the world Walter called for responsive and responsible government, leaders characterized by honesty and courage, and citizens informed as well as active. Walter valued personal faith even as the right to keep his faith private.
Walter was uncompromising in his reporting of reality-what he saw and heard-and straightforward when speaking of possibility-exploring what could be and pointing the way forward. The intensity and seriousness with which Walter did his work were complemented by the lightness of his sense of humor and the warmth of his smile. His strong resonant voice conveyed the relentless objectivity with which he reported the news but a pause in his speech or an infrequent tear in his eye provided insight into how much he cared about the people and events in his reports.
To be a part of an organization and a movement that this man affirmed and supported has been a privilege beyond measure. To work with him was a joy and an honor. To be the beneficiary of his wisdom and the recipient of his encouragement were great gifts.
Admired as the most trusted man in America, Walter Cronkite always told us the way it could be as well as the way it was. And, we are a better people for having believed him and followed his counsel.
No one will replace Walter Cronkite. We can only hope that many will share his values, aspire to his courage, and emulate his integrity.
Sincerely,
Rev. Dr. C. Welton Gaddy"
Interfaith Alliance has also set up a tribute page for Walter Cronkite where people can post comments, prayers, etc.
Below is a copy of Rev. Dr. Gaddy's letter:
"I would like to express my deep sorrow on the passing of Walter Cronkite, our honorary chair. Mr. Cronkite has been affiliated with Interfaith Alliance since 1997. He told me at our first meeting that "nothing less is at stake in the work of the Interfaith Alliance then the existence of democracy as we know it."
Our nation has lost a true patriot and an exemplary citizen. The news media has lost a committed truth-teller who epitomized journalistic responsibility. Interfaith Alliance has lost a proud supporter and respected Honorary Chairman of the Board. I have lost an inspiring hero and a dear personal friend.
Walter Cronkite embodied the core values espoused by Interfaith Alliance-integrity and civility, respect for diversity and the importance of religious liberty. In venues across the nation and around the world Walter called for responsive and responsible government, leaders characterized by honesty and courage, and citizens informed as well as active. Walter valued personal faith even as the right to keep his faith private.
Walter was uncompromising in his reporting of reality-what he saw and heard-and straightforward when speaking of possibility-exploring what could be and pointing the way forward. The intensity and seriousness with which Walter did his work were complemented by the lightness of his sense of humor and the warmth of his smile. His strong resonant voice conveyed the relentless objectivity with which he reported the news but a pause in his speech or an infrequent tear in his eye provided insight into how much he cared about the people and events in his reports.
To be a part of an organization and a movement that this man affirmed and supported has been a privilege beyond measure. To work with him was a joy and an honor. To be the beneficiary of his wisdom and the recipient of his encouragement were great gifts.
Admired as the most trusted man in America, Walter Cronkite always told us the way it could be as well as the way it was. And, we are a better people for having believed him and followed his counsel.
No one will replace Walter Cronkite. We can only hope that many will share his values, aspire to his courage, and emulate his integrity.
Sincerely,
Rev. Dr. C. Welton Gaddy"
Interfaith Alliance has also set up a tribute page for Walter Cronkite where people can post comments, prayers, etc.
Daily Word (7.18.09)
Renewal:
"I am a radiant child of God."
"Bless the Lord, O my soul, ... who satisfies you with good as long as you live so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's." (Psalm 103.1, 5)
Mei Meditatio:
As an individual life of God's vast and magnificent creation, I am a child of God. With the mind of Christ, I realize the interconnectedness of all life and affirm that all others are children of God as well, regardless of religion, caste, race, creed, etc. We all breathe the same air, live under the same sky, and come from the same Source.
With an awareness of the intimate interrelationship of all life, I take action to help create relationships of Christ-centered love and situations of equality and justice in society.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
"I am a radiant child of God."
"Bless the Lord, O my soul, ... who satisfies you with good as long as you live so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's." (Psalm 103.1, 5)
Mei Meditatio:
As an individual life of God's vast and magnificent creation, I am a child of God. With the mind of Christ, I realize the interconnectedness of all life and affirm that all others are children of God as well, regardless of religion, caste, race, creed, etc. We all breathe the same air, live under the same sky, and come from the same Source.
With an awareness of the intimate interrelationship of all life, I take action to help create relationships of Christ-centered love and situations of equality and justice in society.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
Friday, July 17, 2009
Daily Word (7.17.09)
Joy:
"My joy is complete through my connection with God." (DW, 7.17.09)
"Do you not know that you are God's temple and that God's Spirit dwells in you?" (1 Cor. 3.16)
Mei Meditatio:
Coming to God, participating intimately with God in Christ through contemplative prayerfulness, raises my joy to new heights and gratefulness to new depths.
Being transformed in Christ, God's Spirit dwells within me as it does through all of creation and life.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
"My joy is complete through my connection with God." (DW, 7.17.09)
"Do you not know that you are God's temple and that God's Spirit dwells in you?" (1 Cor. 3.16)
Mei Meditatio:
Coming to God, participating intimately with God in Christ through contemplative prayerfulness, raises my joy to new heights and gratefulness to new depths.
Being transformed in Christ, God's Spirit dwells within me as it does through all of creation and life.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Do Atheists Borrow Religion's Morality?
Here is an interesting and thought-provoking essay addressing the issue of the new Atheistic movement and to what extent these individuals are influenced by the morality espoused by religions.
This is my favorite part of the piece:
"... if [atheists are] right (and in a raw, pure and absolutist form atheism is unpalatable to most people), then that might be an indication that there is something to all this “religion stuff” besides the temporary emotional analgesic he describes. Maybe, if wanting meaning is the way people are, and we are part of nature, then those feelings—however they express themselves—might indicate something true about the reality of nature and the way it actually is, rather than just signaling an emotional need for religious therapy."
I believe this to be a decent argument for the ligitimacy for religious belief and practice. Since most people naturally desire meaning in the form of religious and spiritual practice rather than nihilistic atheism, and this want is part and parcel of the nature of the world (since we're part and parcel of the nature of the world), then this quest for meaning via religion and religious morality may say something true about us as human beings.
Read the entire article for more.
This is my favorite part of the piece:
"... if [atheists are] right (and in a raw, pure and absolutist form atheism is unpalatable to most people), then that might be an indication that there is something to all this “religion stuff” besides the temporary emotional analgesic he describes. Maybe, if wanting meaning is the way people are, and we are part of nature, then those feelings—however they express themselves—might indicate something true about the reality of nature and the way it actually is, rather than just signaling an emotional need for religious therapy."
I believe this to be a decent argument for the ligitimacy for religious belief and practice. Since most people naturally desire meaning in the form of religious and spiritual practice rather than nihilistic atheism, and this want is part and parcel of the nature of the world (since we're part and parcel of the nature of the world), then this quest for meaning via religion and religious morality may say something true about us as human beings.
Read the entire article for more.
Episcopal Church to Affirm Gay Clergy
"The Episcopal Church moved Monday toward affirming their acceptance of gays and lesbians for all roles in ministry, despite pressure from fellow Anglicans worldwide for a decisive moratorium on consecrating another openly gay bishop." (AP)
Bishops at the Episcopal General Convention in Anaheim, CA voted 99-45 for a statement declaring that God calls gay and lesbian people into ministry. Lay and ordained delegates to the meeting had approved a similar statement.
Certain forces within the Anglican Communion have been pushing Episcopalians to retract their support for gays and lesbians since 2003, when the U.S. denomination consecrated the first openly gay bishop, V. Gene Robinson of New Hampshire.
This issue will likely split the Anglican Communion and the Episcopal Church, but it is important for Episcopalian individuals and communities to stand up for LGBT rights and affirm the equality of all persons as created by God as God's children. As such, ministerial ordination as representatives leading people's lives toward right relationship with God in Christ should not be a matter of sexual orientation but one's values, commitment, and character.
Rachel Zoll of the Associated Press has the story.
Bishops at the Episcopal General Convention in Anaheim, CA voted 99-45 for a statement declaring that God calls gay and lesbian people into ministry. Lay and ordained delegates to the meeting had approved a similar statement.
Certain forces within the Anglican Communion have been pushing Episcopalians to retract their support for gays and lesbians since 2003, when the U.S. denomination consecrated the first openly gay bishop, V. Gene Robinson of New Hampshire.
This issue will likely split the Anglican Communion and the Episcopal Church, but it is important for Episcopalian individuals and communities to stand up for LGBT rights and affirm the equality of all persons as created by God as God's children. As such, ministerial ordination as representatives leading people's lives toward right relationship with God in Christ should not be a matter of sexual orientation but one's values, commitment, and character.
Rachel Zoll of the Associated Press has the story.
Eboo Patel and An Interfaith Movement Against Malaria
Recently, Eboo Patel, director of the Interfaith Youth Core, wrote an article stating the need for a concerted interfaith movement to fight the devastation malaria is causing, particularly in Africa.
Here is a snippet of the piece in Sojourners publication:
"If you bring up theology or politics to a group of Muslims, Christians, and Jews, they probably won't agree on everything--some won't agree on anything. But one thing that these diverse religious groups will agree on is that if we can do something to save a life, we should. If we can join forces to save even more lives, all the better.
Today, we need to do just that to address a disease that poses a threat to life in more than 100 countries around the world: malaria. Malaria kills a child in Africa every 30 seconds. Pregnant women and children under 5 are at special risk. More than 1 million people every year are killed by malaria; 90 percent of these deaths occur in Africa. In the U.S., we eradicated malaria more than 50 years ago, but today, more than 40 percent of the world's population is at risk.
These deaths are entirely preventable--and as people of faith, joining with secular partners, it is our call to ensure that they end. Because malaria is not just spread by mosquitoes, but by apathy. In our globalized world, during this economic crisis, amid global warming and worldwide poverty, there are quite a few issues that have no simple solution. Malaria is not one of them. It takes a simple bed net to help protect a child in Africa."
Let's do what we can locally to help those threatened by malaria abroad.
Read the entire article at Faith in Public Life.
Here is a snippet of the piece in Sojourners publication:
"If you bring up theology or politics to a group of Muslims, Christians, and Jews, they probably won't agree on everything--some won't agree on anything. But one thing that these diverse religious groups will agree on is that if we can do something to save a life, we should. If we can join forces to save even more lives, all the better.
Today, we need to do just that to address a disease that poses a threat to life in more than 100 countries around the world: malaria. Malaria kills a child in Africa every 30 seconds. Pregnant women and children under 5 are at special risk. More than 1 million people every year are killed by malaria; 90 percent of these deaths occur in Africa. In the U.S., we eradicated malaria more than 50 years ago, but today, more than 40 percent of the world's population is at risk.
These deaths are entirely preventable--and as people of faith, joining with secular partners, it is our call to ensure that they end. Because malaria is not just spread by mosquitoes, but by apathy. In our globalized world, during this economic crisis, amid global warming and worldwide poverty, there are quite a few issues that have no simple solution. Malaria is not one of them. It takes a simple bed net to help protect a child in Africa."
Let's do what we can locally to help those threatened by malaria abroad.
Read the entire article at Faith in Public Life.
Daily Word (7.16.09)
Emerge:
"I am embracing a new way of life." (DW, 7.16.09)
"And he said to the man who had the withered hand, 'Come forward.' ... 'Stretch out your hand.' He stretched it out, and his hand was restored." (Mark 3.3, 5)
Mei Meditatio:
Going into the Silence, I am inspired by the loving presence of God in Christ. With gratitude, I am open to new experiences with fresh insight. With the awareness of Christ in me, the hope of glory, I take action to cultivate spiritual and physical well-being for myself and others.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
"I am embracing a new way of life." (DW, 7.16.09)
"And he said to the man who had the withered hand, 'Come forward.' ... 'Stretch out your hand.' He stretched it out, and his hand was restored." (Mark 3.3, 5)
Mei Meditatio:
Going into the Silence, I am inspired by the loving presence of God in Christ. With gratitude, I am open to new experiences with fresh insight. With the awareness of Christ in me, the hope of glory, I take action to cultivate spiritual and physical well-being for myself and others.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
LGBT Christian Magazine Whosoever Wins 2009 Pride Choice Award
Whosoever: An Online Magazine for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender (GLBT) Christians has been named the best gay and lesbian focused nonprofit in the Southeast in GreatNonprofit's 2009 Pride Choice Awards.
Whosoever's entire mission is to affirm LGBT people in their sexuality or gender identity and to assure them of God's unconditional love for them. Whosoever, which was founded in 1996, publishes new issues every other month and works to provide a safe and sacred space for LGBT Christians.
Held during Gay and Lesbian Pride Month in June, the contest asked people to submit reviews and ratings about nonprofits serving the LGBT community. The contest was sponsored by GreatNonprofits.org, GuideStar and Queerty.
Read more at the Religion News Service.
Whosoever's entire mission is to affirm LGBT people in their sexuality or gender identity and to assure them of God's unconditional love for them. Whosoever, which was founded in 1996, publishes new issues every other month and works to provide a safe and sacred space for LGBT Christians.
Held during Gay and Lesbian Pride Month in June, the contest asked people to submit reviews and ratings about nonprofits serving the LGBT community. The contest was sponsored by GreatNonprofits.org, GuideStar and Queerty.
Read more at the Religion News Service.
Daily Word (7.15.09)
Inner Peace:
"I feel the peace of Spirit in this moment."
"The Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace." (Num. 6.26)
Mei Meditatio:
Spirit is ever-present with me, in me, and I am receptive to the stillness God's Spirit offers. Through connecting to Spirit through the presence of Christ within me, I sense the powerful, abundant flow of Love and Peace in my life and express this practically in my relationships with others. I express this Presence through engaging in activities that build up community, connection, harmony, and equality.
As I breathe, I am reminded of the Presence of Spirit in me and all living beings.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
"I feel the peace of Spirit in this moment."
"The Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace." (Num. 6.26)
Mei Meditatio:
Spirit is ever-present with me, in me, and I am receptive to the stillness God's Spirit offers. Through connecting to Spirit through the presence of Christ within me, I sense the powerful, abundant flow of Love and Peace in my life and express this practically in my relationships with others. I express this Presence through engaging in activities that build up community, connection, harmony, and equality.
As I breathe, I am reminded of the Presence of Spirit in me and all living beings.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Unity.FM (July 13-17, 2009)
This week on Unity.FM:
Join Mindy Audlin on The Leading Edge program as she talks with Howard Martin, the executive vice president of HeartMath, in the first of a 12-part series, "Voices of Peace." Martin will discuss a systematic approach to maintain coherence and emotional balance and develop the heart's intelligence. Learn how and why coherence is at the core of all peace-building activities.
On World Spirituality Paul John Roach promotes the theme "The Spirituality of Humor." Guest Peter Bolland and Paul will take a journey through the spiritual landscape of laughter, humor, and joy that exists in all world religions.
On New World Radio the subject will be "The Spirituality of the Obama Presidency." On election night 2008, after Obama's victory, Oprah Winfrey told CNN "it feels like a shift in consciousness." That's not the sentiment in some religious circles that see a spiritual foreboding in Obama's presidency. Does Obama's election to presiden demonstrate an shift in awareness? Tune in to hear this discussion.
Listen to Unity.FM.
See the scheduled programming.
Join Mindy Audlin on The Leading Edge program as she talks with Howard Martin, the executive vice president of HeartMath, in the first of a 12-part series, "Voices of Peace." Martin will discuss a systematic approach to maintain coherence and emotional balance and develop the heart's intelligence. Learn how and why coherence is at the core of all peace-building activities.
On World Spirituality Paul John Roach promotes the theme "The Spirituality of Humor." Guest Peter Bolland and Paul will take a journey through the spiritual landscape of laughter, humor, and joy that exists in all world religions.
On New World Radio the subject will be "The Spirituality of the Obama Presidency." On election night 2008, after Obama's victory, Oprah Winfrey told CNN "it feels like a shift in consciousness." That's not the sentiment in some religious circles that see a spiritual foreboding in Obama's presidency. Does Obama's election to presiden demonstrate an shift in awareness? Tune in to hear this discussion.
Listen to Unity.FM.
See the scheduled programming.
National Guard Units Strained By Chaplain Shortage
Some military units, especially the Army National Guard, are struggling to recruit for chaplains, which is a position seen as crucial to morale. Currently, there are about 200 positions are open in the Army National Guard and 45 in the Air National Guard.
Chaplains have a unique role to play in the military. They serve as more than ministers for soldiers in harm's way. They are confidants, counselors, and arbitrators. In many places, like Iraq and Afghanistan, unit commanders have used military chaplains to communicate with local secular and religious leaders. Many chaplains serve intimately with soldiers, oftentimes even within arm's reach of them in war zones.
The point here is that chaplains are integral to the lives of many soldiers, which makes the shortage in the Guard a cause for concern. Hopefully, more religious leaders and/or chaplains from other sectors of society will consider serving for the Army and Air Guard and help sustain our soldiers during their endeavors in serving the U.S.A. I especially urge Unity ministers who feel so called to do what they can to promote military chaplaincy in Unity circles.
Nomaan Merchant of the Associated Press has the story at Faith in Public Life.
Chaplains have a unique role to play in the military. They serve as more than ministers for soldiers in harm's way. They are confidants, counselors, and arbitrators. In many places, like Iraq and Afghanistan, unit commanders have used military chaplains to communicate with local secular and religious leaders. Many chaplains serve intimately with soldiers, oftentimes even within arm's reach of them in war zones.
The point here is that chaplains are integral to the lives of many soldiers, which makes the shortage in the Guard a cause for concern. Hopefully, more religious leaders and/or chaplains from other sectors of society will consider serving for the Army and Air Guard and help sustain our soldiers during their endeavors in serving the U.S.A. I especially urge Unity ministers who feel so called to do what they can to promote military chaplaincy in Unity circles.
Nomaan Merchant of the Associated Press has the story at Faith in Public Life.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Daily Word (7.12.09)
Harmony:
"I live in harmony and peace." (DW, 7.12.09)
"Agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you." (2 Corinthians 13.11)
Mei Meditatio:
Seeking agreement and harmonious relationship with others is representative of God. Seeking cooperation and peaceable relations is acting to manifest the Kingdom of God on earth.
Indeed, as I contemplate and express love and peace, God the Good Omnipotent becomes present to me and others in relationships and society. By the love, power, and justice of Christ, harmonious fellowship and hospitality comes about.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
"I live in harmony and peace." (DW, 7.12.09)
"Agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you." (2 Corinthians 13.11)
Mei Meditatio:
Seeking agreement and harmonious relationship with others is representative of God. Seeking cooperation and peaceable relations is acting to manifest the Kingdom of God on earth.
Indeed, as I contemplate and express love and peace, God the Good Omnipotent becomes present to me and others in relationships and society. By the love, power, and justice of Christ, harmonious fellowship and hospitality comes about.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Presiding Episcopal Bishop Critiques Prominent Soteriology at General Convention
"While many expected LGBT issues to be at the forefront of controversy at the Episcopal Church's General Convention, presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori stunned some participants by taking aim at narrow notions of salvation." (Religion Dispatches)
Since the LGBT issue is threatening to totally split the Episcopal Church, one would imagine that the subject matter for the Bishop might be along those lines, but she surprised everyone with a much more wide-ranging issue - soteriology. Bishop Schori argues that the great Western Christian heresy is that salvation is individual, that right relation with God is something that can be accomplished all on one's own. Salvation is communal, just as life itself is.
As for me, the Unity tradition in which I reside certainly asserts a rather individualistic notion of salvation. Salvation/liberation is brought about by one's own free will in changing attitudes, persepectives, and consciousness from limitation and lack to prosperity and abundance. However, I most certainly see Bishop Schori's point. We in Unity do believe in interdependence. And as interdependently existing beings, each individual human cannot solely rely upon his/herself for existence. Rather, each individual life is integrally interconnected and interrelated to all else in thought, word, and deed. That is, though we certainly do have a free will/volitional agency, this will is impacted, influenced, and affected by others. Our life and living is possible only by virtue of others and is dependent upon others.
Thus, when it comes to soteriology, our individual salvation/liberation can only be understood in and through relationships. That is, my spiritual path to salvation/liberation is influenced by the lives, actions, and intentions of others and is accomplished in a social context of community. Perhaps we can bring more of this aspect of communal liberation explicitly into our Unity theology. There is much more to be said about this issue, but this is just a tidbit of thought.
Candace Chellew-Hodge has the Bishop Schori article at Religion Dispatches.
Since the LGBT issue is threatening to totally split the Episcopal Church, one would imagine that the subject matter for the Bishop might be along those lines, but she surprised everyone with a much more wide-ranging issue - soteriology. Bishop Schori argues that the great Western Christian heresy is that salvation is individual, that right relation with God is something that can be accomplished all on one's own. Salvation is communal, just as life itself is.
As for me, the Unity tradition in which I reside certainly asserts a rather individualistic notion of salvation. Salvation/liberation is brought about by one's own free will in changing attitudes, persepectives, and consciousness from limitation and lack to prosperity and abundance. However, I most certainly see Bishop Schori's point. We in Unity do believe in interdependence. And as interdependently existing beings, each individual human cannot solely rely upon his/herself for existence. Rather, each individual life is integrally interconnected and interrelated to all else in thought, word, and deed. That is, though we certainly do have a free will/volitional agency, this will is impacted, influenced, and affected by others. Our life and living is possible only by virtue of others and is dependent upon others.
Thus, when it comes to soteriology, our individual salvation/liberation can only be understood in and through relationships. That is, my spiritual path to salvation/liberation is influenced by the lives, actions, and intentions of others and is accomplished in a social context of community. Perhaps we can bring more of this aspect of communal liberation explicitly into our Unity theology. There is much more to be said about this issue, but this is just a tidbit of thought.
Candace Chellew-Hodge has the Bishop Schori article at Religion Dispatches.
A Left Side to Calvin?
In a recent article at Religion Dispatches Paula M. Cooey reevaluates the Protestant Reformer John Calvin, saying that, though his rigid and punitive side has been prominent, there is a more progressive, socialist, activist facet to Calvin's theological legacy.(Photo from Religion Dispatches)
Daily Word (7.11.09)
Forgive:
"I forgive myself and others." (DW, 7.11.09)
"Let us know, let us press on to know the Lord; his appearing is as sure as the dawn." (Hosea 6.3)
Mei Meditatio:
Forgiveness is the seed of spiritual transformation and general personal growth. To forgive is to let go of attitudes, thoughts, ideas, and mindsets that stagnate the experience of the love of God in Christ. To forgive is to release negative hindrances on the path toward dynamic union with God through Christ.
God's presence is as certain as the dawn of sunrise. Thus, as I forgive not only others but also myself I liberate my being from seeming blockages of God's loving, powerful, all-encompassing presence.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
"I forgive myself and others." (DW, 7.11.09)
"Let us know, let us press on to know the Lord; his appearing is as sure as the dawn." (Hosea 6.3)
Mei Meditatio:
Forgiveness is the seed of spiritual transformation and general personal growth. To forgive is to let go of attitudes, thoughts, ideas, and mindsets that stagnate the experience of the love of God in Christ. To forgive is to release negative hindrances on the path toward dynamic union with God through Christ.
God's presence is as certain as the dawn of sunrise. Thus, as I forgive not only others but also myself I liberate my being from seeming blockages of God's loving, powerful, all-encompassing presence.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
Friday, July 10, 2009
Daily Word (7.10.09)
Faith:
"I am living in faith." (DW, 7.10.09)
"Beloved, build yourselves up on your most holy faith; pray in the Holy Spirit; keep yourselves in the love of God." (Jude 1.20-21)
Mei Meditatio:
Through trusting acceptance in God as the Source, Sustainer, and Savior of my being I'm able to live confidently, compassionately, and contently.
Prayer and contemplation on the Holy Spirit in and through Christ Jesus vivifies me in the love of God and empowers me to live in promotion of justice and equality.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
"I am living in faith." (DW, 7.10.09)
"Beloved, build yourselves up on your most holy faith; pray in the Holy Spirit; keep yourselves in the love of God." (Jude 1.20-21)
Mei Meditatio:
Through trusting acceptance in God as the Source, Sustainer, and Savior of my being I'm able to live confidently, compassionately, and contently.
Prayer and contemplation on the Holy Spirit in and through Christ Jesus vivifies me in the love of God and empowers me to live in promotion of justice and equality.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Daily Word (7.9.09)
Comfort:
"God is my strength and my comfort." (DW, 7.9.09)
"Sing for joy, O heavens, and exult, O earth . . . For the Lord has comforted his people." (Is. 49.13)
Mei Meditatio:
Strength, comfort, guidance, and lovingkindness are expressed in my being through my intimate connection with God the Good, Omnipotent and Omnipresent.
Christ in me gives me the ability to be my best and do benefit for myself and all sentient beings in and through the Oneness of God. This realization leads me to joy and exultation!
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
"God is my strength and my comfort." (DW, 7.9.09)
"Sing for joy, O heavens, and exult, O earth . . . For the Lord has comforted his people." (Is. 49.13)
Mei Meditatio:
Strength, comfort, guidance, and lovingkindness are expressed in my being through my intimate connection with God the Good, Omnipotent and Omnipresent.
Christ in me gives me the ability to be my best and do benefit for myself and all sentient beings in and through the Oneness of God. This realization leads me to joy and exultation!
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Religion and Ethics Newsweekly Interviews Jazz Musician Dave Brubeck
Bob Faw of PBS's Religion and Ethics Newsweekly traveled to Washington, D.C., for an enlightening interview with jazz icon Dave Brubeck. Known for his widely inventive, often revolutionary time signatures, what is less known by even jazz listeners is that Brubeck has also composed religious scores for much of his career.
For Dave Brubeck, jazz not only embraces and encompasses but also enhances and augments religion. Raised Presbyterian by a Christian Scientist mother, the 88-year-old Brubeck always strives to convey the same message in his music: love your enemies.
Check out the show on Friday, July 10, 2009 at Religion and Ethics Newsweekly.
For Dave Brubeck, jazz not only embraces and encompasses but also enhances and augments religion. Raised Presbyterian by a Christian Scientist mother, the 88-year-old Brubeck always strives to convey the same message in his music: love your enemies.
Check out the show on Friday, July 10, 2009 at Religion and Ethics Newsweekly.
Daily Word (7.8.09)
Right Time:
"I trust God for the answer to my prayer." (DW, 7.8.09)
"But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience." (Rom. 8.25)
Mei Meditatio:
By virtue of Faith coupled with Understanding, I trust God in Christ. I trust that in my relative perspective I'm not always able to have all the answers and know exactly what to do. However, as I center myself in Christ and open my mind, body, and spirit to God, answers are revealed to me and I'm aware of what to do when I need to do it.
I am guided by the Spirit of God in Christ into right action through thought, word, and deed. I am guided in action to promote and sustain well-being for myself, my relationships, and society through love, charity, and justice.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
"I trust God for the answer to my prayer." (DW, 7.8.09)
"But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience." (Rom. 8.25)
Mei Meditatio:
By virtue of Faith coupled with Understanding, I trust God in Christ. I trust that in my relative perspective I'm not always able to have all the answers and know exactly what to do. However, as I center myself in Christ and open my mind, body, and spirit to God, answers are revealed to me and I'm aware of what to do when I need to do it.
I am guided by the Spirit of God in Christ into right action through thought, word, and deed. I am guided in action to promote and sustain well-being for myself, my relationships, and society through love, charity, and justice.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
Union's Course, "Christianity and the U.S. Crisis" Featured on PBS's Bill Moyers Journal
On July 3, 2009 Union Theological Seminay's course entitled "Christianity and the U.S. Crisis" was featured on the PBS show Bill Moyers' Journal.
Union President Serene Jones, Professor Gary Dorrien, and Professor Cornell West of Princeton University discuss the popular Union Forum course, "Christianity and the U.S. Crisis." The program took a close look at our nation's religious traditions and values, and what they say about the challenges of balancing capitalism and democracy in America.
President Jones and Professors Dorrien and West spoke with host, Bill Moyers, about how "Christianity and the U.S. Crisis," which has garnered incredible popularity online, uniquely gained Christian responses to the U.S. economic crisis. Moyers recognized the people behind the featured Union Forum course to be "leading public thinkers" in this debate.
Watch the show at PBS.
Learn more about the course "Christianity and the US Crisis."
Read more about Pres. Jones, Profs. Dorrien and West.
Union President Serene Jones, Professor Gary Dorrien, and Professor Cornell West of Princeton University discuss the popular Union Forum course, "Christianity and the U.S. Crisis." The program took a close look at our nation's religious traditions and values, and what they say about the challenges of balancing capitalism and democracy in America.
President Jones and Professors Dorrien and West spoke with host, Bill Moyers, about how "Christianity and the U.S. Crisis," which has garnered incredible popularity online, uniquely gained Christian responses to the U.S. economic crisis. Moyers recognized the people behind the featured Union Forum course to be "leading public thinkers" in this debate.
Watch the show at PBS.
Learn more about the course "Christianity and the US Crisis."
Read more about Pres. Jones, Profs. Dorrien and West.
National Economic Survey Explores Economy's Impact on Christian Nonprofits
The Christian Leadership Alliance (CLA) recently released the helpful results of a national "Economic Outlook Survey" of Christian nonprofit organizations. The survey was conducted in April 2009 by J. David Schmidt and Associates.
"The national survey that CLA released today provides insight into the impact that the current economy is having on nonprofit organizations, particularly faith-based nonprofits," said Frank Lofaro, CLA president and CEO. "For many Christian nonprofit organizations the economy has had a major impact. In fact, compared to one year ago, some 73 percent of nonprofits with investments said their portfolios and endowments are down, and some 51 percent said that reserves have diminished."
Read the whole article at RNS.
"The national survey that CLA released today provides insight into the impact that the current economy is having on nonprofit organizations, particularly faith-based nonprofits," said Frank Lofaro, CLA president and CEO. "For many Christian nonprofit organizations the economy has had a major impact. In fact, compared to one year ago, some 73 percent of nonprofits with investments said their portfolios and endowments are down, and some 51 percent said that reserves have diminished."
Read the whole article at RNS.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Daily Word (7.7.09)
Love:
"We are one in the love of God." (DW, 7.7.09)
"O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever." (1 Chron. 16.34)
Mei Meditatio:
God's Love is all-encompassing and everlasting. As offspring of this Love, all individual life-expressions are intimately connected in a great web of interrelation through the dynamic Presence of Love.
God is Love. Thus, whenever we give, receive, and thus experience Love in its ego-dispelling, self-sacrificial, life-affirming, unity-upholding form, we experience God. Knowing Christ is knowing the Love of God in human being. Opening up to Christ and letting Christ fill my being, I overflow with the Love of God.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
"We are one in the love of God." (DW, 7.7.09)
"O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever." (1 Chron. 16.34)
Mei Meditatio:
God's Love is all-encompassing and everlasting. As offspring of this Love, all individual life-expressions are intimately connected in a great web of interrelation through the dynamic Presence of Love.
God is Love. Thus, whenever we give, receive, and thus experience Love in its ego-dispelling, self-sacrificial, life-affirming, unity-upholding form, we experience God. Knowing Christ is knowing the Love of God in human being. Opening up to Christ and letting Christ fill my being, I overflow with the Love of God.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
Monday, July 6, 2009
Evangelical Pastor Rick Warren Addresses U.S. Muslims
Counter to some of his fellow conservative Christian critics, Rick Warren, pastor of the enormous Saddleback Community Church in Orange County and one of the most prominent religious leaders in the country, told several thousand American Muslims of the Islamic Society of North America on Saturday that "the two largest faiths on the planet" must cooperatively work together to dispel stereotypes and address global problems. Warren said Muslims and Christians ought to be partners in helping to end what he calls "the five global giants" -- war, poverty, corruption, disease, and illiteracy.
Though some of his more evangelical-fundamentalist positions make me a little uneasy, I thoroughly appreciate and respect Pastor Warren's outspoken attitude and practical action toward mainline Muslim communities since 911. It marks a sense of hope for interfaith dialogue and social action toward peace and reconciliation among our more conservative and evangelical-minded brothers and sisters.
Sarah Karush of the AP writes this article at Faith in Public Life outlining Warrens recent extent of solidarity and support to American Muslims.
Though some of his more evangelical-fundamentalist positions make me a little uneasy, I thoroughly appreciate and respect Pastor Warren's outspoken attitude and practical action toward mainline Muslim communities since 911. It marks a sense of hope for interfaith dialogue and social action toward peace and reconciliation among our more conservative and evangelical-minded brothers and sisters.
Sarah Karush of the AP writes this article at Faith in Public Life outlining Warrens recent extent of solidarity and support to American Muslims.
Unity.FM (July 6-10, 2009)
Of particular interest on Unity.FM this week is Matthew Fox will be the special guest on World Spirituality with John Paul Roach. Matthew Fox is one of America's leading spiritual thinkers, especially in what he terms "Creation Spirituality." This week the focus will be on his new book The Hidden Spirituality of Men and its relevance for us all.
Check out the programming for Unity.FM this week.
Listen to the programs on Unity.FM.
Check out the programming for Unity.FM this week.
Listen to the programs on Unity.FM.
Daily Word (7.6.09)
All Is Well:
"Wherever I am, God is, and all is well." (DW, 7.6.09)
"My heart is steadfast, O God, my heart is steadfast!" (Ps. 108.1)
Mei Meditatio:
God is both beyond creation and yet everywhere within it. God is transcendent as well as immanent. As the omnipresent immanence of Divinity, God is present in me through Christ. Knowing the reality of Christ in me is my hope of glory and leads me to the conclusion that all is indeed well.
Allowing myself to continually come back to awareness of God in Christ through prayer and meditation I build a steadfast practice of living out the Truth of the Love of Christ in my daily life.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
"Wherever I am, God is, and all is well." (DW, 7.6.09)
"My heart is steadfast, O God, my heart is steadfast!" (Ps. 108.1)
Mei Meditatio:
God is both beyond creation and yet everywhere within it. God is transcendent as well as immanent. As the omnipresent immanence of Divinity, God is present in me through Christ. Knowing the reality of Christ in me is my hope of glory and leads me to the conclusion that all is indeed well.
Allowing myself to continually come back to awareness of God in Christ through prayer and meditation I build a steadfast practice of living out the Truth of the Love of Christ in my daily life.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
Daily Word (7.5.09)
Pray for Others:
"I am praying for you today." (DW, 7.5.09)
Mei Meditatio:
Prayer is not an activity that ought to be solely for the benefit of myself. I must also direct my contemplative intention toward others in and through Christ's love.
Since all life is interconnected through God's creative Presence and Power, prayer for myself will affect others and prayer for others will undoubtedly affect myself. Yet, I must set aside special time in prayer for both myself and others so as to increase the benefit for each.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
"I am praying for you today." (DW, 7.5.09)
Mei Meditatio:
Prayer is not an activity that ought to be solely for the benefit of myself. I must also direct my contemplative intention toward others in and through Christ's love.
Since all life is interconnected through God's creative Presence and Power, prayer for myself will affect others and prayer for others will undoubtedly affect myself. Yet, I must set aside special time in prayer for both myself and others so as to increase the benefit for each.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Daily Word (7.4.09)
World Peace:
"We are peacemakers, expressing God's love in the world." (DW, 7.4.09)
"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God." (Mat. 5.9)
Mei Meditatio:
Peacemaking begins within. Focusing on God's Unity and Love in my awareness and attitude, with the mind of Christ I create a contented situation with my inner being.
However, for peacemaking to be fulfilled and at its greatest expression, it must not be relegated only the the inner realm. Having centered on the Love of God in Christ and filled with this all-inclusive, self-sacrificial Love I extend it out from myself in concrete acts and deeds that promote the well-being of others in my relationships and in society as a whole through equality, justice, and community-building. In doing this, I emulate the life and teachings of Jesus, my way-shower, master, and thus savior.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
"We are peacemakers, expressing God's love in the world." (DW, 7.4.09)
"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God." (Mat. 5.9)
Mei Meditatio:
Peacemaking begins within. Focusing on God's Unity and Love in my awareness and attitude, with the mind of Christ I create a contented situation with my inner being.
However, for peacemaking to be fulfilled and at its greatest expression, it must not be relegated only the the inner realm. Having centered on the Love of God in Christ and filled with this all-inclusive, self-sacrificial Love I extend it out from myself in concrete acts and deeds that promote the well-being of others in my relationships and in society as a whole through equality, justice, and community-building. In doing this, I emulate the life and teachings of Jesus, my way-shower, master, and thus savior.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
Unity Congregations Going Green
*The first two Unity churches to receive EarthCare Certification from the AUCI EarthCare Ministry Team were honored by Rev. James Trapp at the Unity People's Convention in June. Congratulations to Rev. Sharon Clements (right) of Unity Centre of Practical Christianity from Kitchener, Ontario, Canada, for being the first Unity church in the world to receive this certification! And congratulations to Rev. Alice Anderson (left) of Christ Church Unity in Orlando FL, for being the first Unity church in the United States to receive the certification!* (Field Xchange 7.1.09)For for more info and/or assistance in involving your church or community in this exciting and innovative process, please contact the EarthCare Team at earthcare@unity.org.
(Above Photo from Field Xchange Newsletter 7.1.09)
Muslim-Christian Musical Integration
Recently, musicians from the Muslim and Christian traditions have been amalgamating two spiritual musical styles important to both religions. Qawwali, a mystical Islamic music that aims at dikr -- bringing the players and listeners in closer proximity to experiencing God, remembering God -- has been combined with many kinds of music, such as local musics from around the world, rock, reggae, hip-hop, and electronica.
At the latest Muslim Voices Festival musicians married Qawwali and an influential Christian spiritual music - Gospel. Hussein Rashid, who regularly attends the Muslim Voices Festival, provides a short commentary and review of the experience at Religion Dispatches.
Though I wasn't there, I would imagine that, having listened to both styles separately and understanding the deep spiritual feelings and inspiration behind these types of music, this would be an intriguing and fruitful cross-fertilization. Each has its own unique contribution of musical power, so experiencing them together with any amount of mutual influence must be an exhilarating and heartening.
Since music speaks a language all its own, one that transcends words, musical interaction can be a beautiful and advantageous way of interfaith dialogue conducive to peacable co-existence.
At the latest Muslim Voices Festival musicians married Qawwali and an influential Christian spiritual music - Gospel. Hussein Rashid, who regularly attends the Muslim Voices Festival, provides a short commentary and review of the experience at Religion Dispatches.
Though I wasn't there, I would imagine that, having listened to both styles separately and understanding the deep spiritual feelings and inspiration behind these types of music, this would be an intriguing and fruitful cross-fertilization. Each has its own unique contribution of musical power, so experiencing them together with any amount of mutual influence must be an exhilarating and heartening.
Since music speaks a language all its own, one that transcends words, musical interaction can be a beautiful and advantageous way of interfaith dialogue conducive to peacable co-existence.
Friday, July 3, 2009
Riverside Church Pastor Resigns
The pastor of Riverside Church, Rev. Dr. Brad Braxton, the renowned hub of liberal theology and social activism on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, is resigning after just two months on the job. Braxton has been in the middle of controversy over his theological-political stance, which is allegedly becoming more conservative than progressive in its leaning. There has also been major arguments over his compensation package.
With this kind of instability, what does this mean for progressive Christianity and liberal religion in general?
There are a few stories on this issue interested people should check out:
Paul Vitello of the New York Times has an informative article here.
Also, read Jonathan Walton's essay at Religion Dispatches.
With this kind of instability, what does this mean for progressive Christianity and liberal religion in general?
There are a few stories on this issue interested people should check out:
Paul Vitello of the New York Times has an informative article here.
Also, read Jonathan Walton's essay at Religion Dispatches.
Teaching the Dalai Lama's Monks: Better Religion Through Science
"A scientist/professor in an experimental program teaching science to the Dalai Lama's monks explains why this project is so much bigger than this one program, bigger even than working to reconcile religion and science." (RD 7.1.09)
These interactions between Tibetan monks and scientists are very important in the increased understanding between religious practitioners and scientists through dialogue. However, we must keep in mind that it's not simply religion that must be open to learning from science but also science drawing insight from religion as well (which I haven't seen as often). It's important that the religion-science conversation is truly two-sided -- a real dialogue rather than two disconnected monologues.
Arri Eisen has the story at Religion Dispatches.
These interactions between Tibetan monks and scientists are very important in the increased understanding between religious practitioners and scientists through dialogue. However, we must keep in mind that it's not simply religion that must be open to learning from science but also science drawing insight from religion as well (which I haven't seen as often). It's important that the religion-science conversation is truly two-sided -- a real dialogue rather than two disconnected monologues.
Arri Eisen has the story at Religion Dispatches.
Daily Word (7.3.09)
Today's Word:
"I am free in mind, body, and spirit!" (DW, 7.3.09)
"For you were called to freedom, brothers and sisters." (Gal. 5.13)
Mei Meditatio:
Freedom is part of my essential being. I am created with a free will, a volition to make decisions according to my own intentions. With this liberty of mind, body, and spirit I make choices for the well-being of my self and others.
Attuned to the love of God in Christ, I use my free will to actively pursue equality and justice in society and in human relationships however I'm lead at the time. We're called to freedom, and with this freedom comes responsibility to engage in bettering ourselves and communities.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
"I am free in mind, body, and spirit!" (DW, 7.3.09)
"For you were called to freedom, brothers and sisters." (Gal. 5.13)
Mei Meditatio:
Freedom is part of my essential being. I am created with a free will, a volition to make decisions according to my own intentions. With this liberty of mind, body, and spirit I make choices for the well-being of my self and others.
Attuned to the love of God in Christ, I use my free will to actively pursue equality and justice in society and in human relationships however I'm lead at the time. We're called to freedom, and with this freedom comes responsibility to engage in bettering ourselves and communities.
In the name and through the power of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.