When Betty Lynn Schwab asked how I would feel if she adopted “God’s healing of soul, community, and creation” as the focus of this year’s United Church Lenten devotional book, I was delighted. The biblical reflections and prayers of eight extraordinary writers now offer us an unprecedented opportunity for shared spiritual practice and theological discussion on this theme using this book, Rising with the Morning Star.
I often speak about how people of faith provide the impetus for national discussions and dramatic shifts by appealing to heart and soul. I love recalling the leadership of, among others, William Wilberforce, Nellie McClung, Tommy Douglas, Martin Luther King Jr., and Desmond Tutu.
"Community. Somewhere, there are people to whom we can speak with passion without having the words catch in our throats. Somewhere a circle of hands will open to receive us, eyes will light up as we enter, voices will celebrate with us whenever we come into our own power. Community means strength that joins our strength to do the work that needs to be done. Arms to hold us when we falter. A circle of healing. A circle of friends. Somewhere where we can be free."
There is a hunger for meaning.and community. People are looking to belong. Their souls cry out to make a difference. Life kills them unless they make something of their own. And they are not finding it in our houses of worship.
A friend of mine once wrote there is no meaning to find; there is only meaning to make. How true!
The Bible speaks about "seek the kingdom of God and everything will be added onto you." (Luke 12:31) For many, the path to the Kingdom of God often doesn't go through our churches.
I am a fairly random poster but I be sure to visit (lurk) every day. I have been a member for several years and have seen people come and go.
I love Wondercafe! The diversity of people/experiences/viewpoints. The thoughtful and engaging discussions. The silly, lighthearted play. Even the controversy, heated debate and trolling. I see this forum as a microcosm of society. We are accepted (mostly) as we are and for what we have to offer. This is truly a COMMUNITY. It is the only (church-ish) community I belong to.
Very few people know what a donnybrook is... Its a brawl. But in one small town in eastern Ontario its an auction sale.
