September 30
We had a great Michaelmas today. Our worship was awesome, and we enjoyed some very good tacos and football.
The feast of Francis is this Thursday, October 4. Our plan is to celebrate Wednesday and Sunday. Wednesday we'll do the blessing of the animals. Sunday, we'll celebrate with soup--lentil and chicken, cornbread, salad, and some good wine.
We invite you to join us. Wednesday is at 7 pm, Sunday at 10:30 am.
Today is the deadline the primates set for ecusa bishops to respond with full repentance. Other posts are here on that. It is a sad day for the Church. But our God continues to be good and faithful. Let us be in prayer together for our brothers and sisters.
shalom,
br. francis
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Saturday, September 29, 2007
orthodoxy
I don't refer here to Eastern Orthodoxy. I refer to what has been taught by the Church for 2000+ years, of which is primarily communicated to us in the Holy Scriptures. We in the Church must be orthodox. We must continue to hold on to the apostles' teaching, and as it was written down for us in Scripture.
That includes teachings on sexual morality. To be a follower or disciple of Christ involves adhering to His commands: "If you love me, you will keep my commands." His command is simple: sex is to be between two opposite-sex persons in a covenant marriage.
When the Council of Nicea met in 325 to combat heresy, one of the things they addressed was the problem of heretical bishops (chief or head pastors). Their response to these so-called bishops was just that--to declare that they are no longer bishops and pastors in the Church, and that God's people were no longer under their authority or care. And that other faithful bishops were to come in and truly shepherd God's people who were formerly pastored by these rebels.
As I have said before, we have the same situation now, at this crucial point in the history of the Church. Heretical bishops have again arisen in the Church and teach what is contrary to Scripture. According to Paul and the other apostles, and reiterated in the Council of Nicea, we as God's people are not to listen to them, we are no longer under their authority, and we should seek another bishop to pastor us in their place. This is not, as some have claimed, "sheep-stealing," or encroaching on another's territory. Again, according to Scripture and Nicene,
these heretics have lost their place of ministry among us, and sadly, must be replaced by others who are faithful to Christ.
For many of us, this is a reality we have come to, or are now coming to. The question is, who will remain in communion with these rebels? They will then themselves become rebels, whether they are orthodox or not.
Institutions and branches of the Church can and do become corrupt. Yet God has always had His remnant. The Church is not institutions or denominations--it is God's people. And the authority is placed and will remain solely with those who are orthodox and faithful.
Choose ye this day. We must love and welcome all. Let us continue to do that, and learn how to do that better. And let us stand with Christ and His Word, and with those who do, in all the world.
May God alone receive glory. Amen.
br. francis
I don't refer here to Eastern Orthodoxy. I refer to what has been taught by the Church for 2000+ years, of which is primarily communicated to us in the Holy Scriptures. We in the Church must be orthodox. We must continue to hold on to the apostles' teaching, and as it was written down for us in Scripture.
That includes teachings on sexual morality. To be a follower or disciple of Christ involves adhering to His commands: "If you love me, you will keep my commands." His command is simple: sex is to be between two opposite-sex persons in a covenant marriage.
When the Council of Nicea met in 325 to combat heresy, one of the things they addressed was the problem of heretical bishops (chief or head pastors). Their response to these so-called bishops was just that--to declare that they are no longer bishops and pastors in the Church, and that God's people were no longer under their authority or care. And that other faithful bishops were to come in and truly shepherd God's people who were formerly pastored by these rebels.
As I have said before, we have the same situation now, at this crucial point in the history of the Church. Heretical bishops have again arisen in the Church and teach what is contrary to Scripture. According to Paul and the other apostles, and reiterated in the Council of Nicea, we as God's people are not to listen to them, we are no longer under their authority, and we should seek another bishop to pastor us in their place. This is not, as some have claimed, "sheep-stealing," or encroaching on another's territory. Again, according to Scripture and Nicene,
these heretics have lost their place of ministry among us, and sadly, must be replaced by others who are faithful to Christ.
For many of us, this is a reality we have come to, or are now coming to. The question is, who will remain in communion with these rebels? They will then themselves become rebels, whether they are orthodox or not.
Institutions and branches of the Church can and do become corrupt. Yet God has always had His remnant. The Church is not institutions or denominations--it is God's people. And the authority is placed and will remain solely with those who are orthodox and faithful.
Choose ye this day. We must love and welcome all. Let us continue to do that, and learn how to do that better. And let us stand with Christ and His Word, and with those who do, in all the world.
May God alone receive glory. Amen.
br. francis
Michaelmas
When I go out into the Oratory of St. Bonaventure, which we call the Bonny, I can't hear the phone ring, the tv if it's on, or Athalia if she's chirping loudly (which she does when she's hungry, thirsty, or wants attention--especially in the morning; she's a morning person: I guess most birds are). That's very nice when you want to do prayer, meditation, devotions before the altar (where we keep the Reserved Sacrament), or read a good book, either for study or pleasure. Although when you're out there in the day you can hear the vehicles on MacArthur. Oh, well. We'll see what remote location and solitude we have when the Order purchases land for intentional community in the future. I am excited about that. Sr. Sarah's vision was of a forest. Can we add mountains and running water to that?
I just came back into the "house proper" from the Bonny and Morning Prayer and Communion for Michaelmas, and there was an "UNAVAILABLE" on the caller i.d. and an "if you'd like to make a call..." message on the answering machine. Another telemarketer, I suppose, even if we're on the so-called no-call list. Oh, well. I call this part of the house the "house proper" because the Oratory, or Bonny, is an enclosed porch--so originally it wasn't part of the "house proper."
Anyway, on to Michael and the angels. Their feast is observed on September 29, and in England it's called "Michaelmas." Some places there is a celebration, special food, fun, etc. Chapel of St. Francis will celebrate it tomorrow, and our "special food" will be tacos. So we'll have "Michaelmas Tacos," with the meat cooked and seasoned by yours truly. :) Since we're of the "English catholic" tradition, I'll call it Michaelmas. Today (and tomorrow) we celebrate the presence, service, prayers, and protection of the angels around us. According to Scripture, they are in ranks, some circle the Throne of Almighty God and cry, "holy, holy, holy" all the time (for them it's not "all the time," of course, because there's no time there...), pray for us with the saints in heaven (the Church Triumphant) and bring their prayers and the prayers of the saints in heaven to God's Throne (how that's done is not described to us by the Apostle John--I'm not sure there are words to describe it), protect us, fulfill God's will, do battle with demons, and in a way that's not explained in Scripture, are instrumental in bringing God's peace to us (maybe partly through their intercession and protection).
Angels are NOT glorified human beings. We don't BECOME angels when we enter heaven, but Scripture says we are LIKE them. Their counterparts are demons, fallen angels who, according again to John the Revelator (check out Phil Keaggy's version of this blues classic on Crimson and Blue --it rocks!) made war on the holy angels, and with their leader, Satan the dragon and serpent, and were beaten and cast out of heaven. John writes that they went on to persecute Mary and the Church. Paul wrote to us that our war is not really with other humans, but with them. We have authority, and have triumphed over them, in the Name above all names, Jesus Christ.
Recommended Further Reading:
Peter Kreeft, Angels and Demons
C.S. Lewis' 'Space Trilogy'
devotions and litany to the angels in the St. Augustine Prayer Book
Michael, defend us in battle.
God's blessings on you.
br. francis
When I go out into the Oratory of St. Bonaventure, which we call the Bonny, I can't hear the phone ring, the tv if it's on, or Athalia if she's chirping loudly (which she does when she's hungry, thirsty, or wants attention--especially in the morning; she's a morning person: I guess most birds are). That's very nice when you want to do prayer, meditation, devotions before the altar (where we keep the Reserved Sacrament), or read a good book, either for study or pleasure. Although when you're out there in the day you can hear the vehicles on MacArthur. Oh, well. We'll see what remote location and solitude we have when the Order purchases land for intentional community in the future. I am excited about that. Sr. Sarah's vision was of a forest. Can we add mountains and running water to that?
I just came back into the "house proper" from the Bonny and Morning Prayer and Communion for Michaelmas, and there was an "UNAVAILABLE" on the caller i.d. and an "if you'd like to make a call..." message on the answering machine. Another telemarketer, I suppose, even if we're on the so-called no-call list. Oh, well. I call this part of the house the "house proper" because the Oratory, or Bonny, is an enclosed porch--so originally it wasn't part of the "house proper."
Anyway, on to Michael and the angels. Their feast is observed on September 29, and in England it's called "Michaelmas." Some places there is a celebration, special food, fun, etc. Chapel of St. Francis will celebrate it tomorrow, and our "special food" will be tacos. So we'll have "Michaelmas Tacos," with the meat cooked and seasoned by yours truly. :) Since we're of the "English catholic" tradition, I'll call it Michaelmas. Today (and tomorrow) we celebrate the presence, service, prayers, and protection of the angels around us. According to Scripture, they are in ranks, some circle the Throne of Almighty God and cry, "holy, holy, holy" all the time (for them it's not "all the time," of course, because there's no time there...), pray for us with the saints in heaven (the Church Triumphant) and bring their prayers and the prayers of the saints in heaven to God's Throne (how that's done is not described to us by the Apostle John--I'm not sure there are words to describe it), protect us, fulfill God's will, do battle with demons, and in a way that's not explained in Scripture, are instrumental in bringing God's peace to us (maybe partly through their intercession and protection).
Angels are NOT glorified human beings. We don't BECOME angels when we enter heaven, but Scripture says we are LIKE them. Their counterparts are demons, fallen angels who, according again to John the Revelator (check out Phil Keaggy's version of this blues classic on Crimson and Blue --it rocks!) made war on the holy angels, and with their leader, Satan the dragon and serpent, and were beaten and cast out of heaven. John writes that they went on to persecute Mary and the Church. Paul wrote to us that our war is not really with other humans, but with them. We have authority, and have triumphed over them, in the Name above all names, Jesus Christ.
Recommended Further Reading:
Peter Kreeft, Angels and Demons
C.S. Lewis' 'Space Trilogy'
devotions and litany to the angels in the St. Augustine Prayer Book
Michael, defend us in battle.
God's blessings on you.
br. francis
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Saturday, September 22, 2007
"Diversity should not be unlimited and should not contradict the essentials of our faith...not unity at any expense."
NEW ORLEANS: Egyptian Primate says TEC Must Accept Consequences of its Decisions
Archbishop Mouneer Anis addresses the House of Bishops in New Orleans
Sept. 20, 2007
Someone a moment ago handed me this speech. It was just delivered on the floor. I am typing it up and will post updates as I proceed...so keep refreshing... Dear Brothers and Sisters,
Thank you so much for inviting me here to come and listen to you and for giving me the opportunity to share my heart with you. I am very aware of my own shortcomings and weaknesses, but every word I want to say is out of love and concern for the unity of the Church of Christ.
I do not come with great authority, nor am I the primate of a province with a great number of Anglicans; I do however, come from a region where Christ walked and where the Church was born. I come representing the Church of Jerusalem and the Middle East.
The Church in this region has faced many challenges since the first century. Our brothers and sisters in the early centuries were ready to sacrifice their very lives to stay true to the Faith they received from the Lord and his Apostles. Their blood was not in vain; rather it became the seed of the Church across our entire region. Many disputes and heresies took place in our region. In face of all the challenges, persecutions, and heresies our ancestors-people like St. Athanasius, St. Clement, Origen, and Cyril from Alexandria, along with Tertullian, Cyprian, and St. Augustine from North Africa-kept the faith of the One Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church. We are constantly learning from our ancient martyrs and forebearers how to serve the Kingdom of God faithfully.
Today our Anglican Church in the Middle East still lives within a very exciting and challenging context. We live among the Oriental Orthodox, the Greek Orthodox, the Catholics, the Jews and the Muslims. We greatly value our ecumenical relations and continue to work for unity.
We also deeply respect and appreciate our Muslim friends and value our interfaith relations while in no way compromise our faith. I have to tell you that many of these relations were severely strained after your decision to consecrate Gene Robinson as bishop in 2003. We are seen as the new heretics and this has hindered our ecumenical and interfaith relations as well as our mission in the region
My friends, like you, we want to be relevant to the culture in which we live. More importantly, we want to be salt and light to our societies. That is not an easy calling but it means we must remain distinct and humble at the same time. Without being distinct we cannot be salt and light; without humility we will not represent the one who said, "I am meek and lowly in heart." We are also continuously challenged whether we should allow the culture to transform the Apostolic Faith we once received, or if we should allow the Gospel of Jesus Christ to transform our culture as it has in the past. As we struggle to answer this question we must never divorce ourselves from the faith that countless men, women and children died to protect. I believer that if we faithfully serve the Church of Christ, He will continue to fulfill his promise that the gates of Hades will not prevail against her.
Rupertus Meldenius said, "In essentials, unity; in non-essentials, liberty; in all things, charity". Our hope is to be united on the essentials of faith which are defined only by the whole church. WE are not in any way trying to impose rigid views on you. Like you we celebrate diversity, but we believe that such diversity should not be unlimited and should not contradict the essentials of our faith. We are not schismatic, but we are diligent to preserve the unity of the spirit in the bond of peace. We want unity but not unity at any expense.
Anglicans are aware with humility that we are not "the" church but we are one member of the body of Christ, the one Holy Catholic Church. We proclaim this every week in our churches. This places upon us the responsibility to listen to and respect our ecumenical partners.
My friends, you may believe you have discovered a very different truth from that of the majority in the Anglican Communion. It is not just about sexuality, but about your views of Christ, the Gospel, and the authority of the Bible. Please forgive me when I relay that some say you are a different church, others even think that you are a different religion.
I understand that it is difficult for you in your context to accept the standard teaching of the Anglican Communion. That is why you refused to accept Lambeth Conference Resolution 1.10. You also ignored all the warnings of the Primates in 2003, 2004, and 2005. Your response to the Windsor Report is seen by the Primates as not clear. You cannot say you value being a member of the Anglican Communion while you ignore the interdependence if the member churches. The interdependence is what differentiates us from other congregational churches. I would like to remind you and myself with the famous resolution number 49 of the Lambeth Conference of 1930 which declares "the Anglican Communion is a fellowship of churches that...are bound together not by a central legislative and executive authority, but by mutual loyalty sustained through the common counsel of the bishops in conference." With respect, I have to say that those who would prefer to speak of laws and procedures, constitutions and canons, committees and process: you are missing the point! It is our mutual loyalty and fellowship, submitting to one another in the common cause of Jesus Christ that makes us of one Church one faith and one Lord.
It is clear that you actions have resulted in one the most difficult disputes in the Communion in our generation. You may see them as not core doctrinal issues. Many like me see the opposite but the thing that we all cannot ignore is that these issues are divisive and have created a lot of undesired consequences and reactions. For the first time in centuries, the fabric of our Communion is torn. Our energies have been drained and our resources are lost and it is difficult for both of us to continue like this.
My friends, if you really believe that the truth revealed to you is different from that shown to the rest of the Communion, then you need to uphold that claim with boldness even at the risk of losing unity. If you think it is right and necessary to ordain and consecrate practicing homosexuals and that you should bless same sex partnerships or even marriages, you should be true to what you believe is right and accept the consequences.
However, if you appreciate being members of the global Anglican family, then you have to walk along side the members of your family. Those who say it is important to stay together around the table, to listen to each other and to continue our dialogue over the difficult issues that are facing us are wise. We wholeheartedly agree with this, but staying around the table requires that you should not take actions that are contrary to the standard position (Lambeth 1.10) of the rest of the Communion.
Sitting around one table requires humility from all of us. One church cannot say to the rest of churches "I know the whole truth, you don't". Archbishop Rowan reminded us in his paper "Challenge and Hope" that "the whole truth is revealed to the whole church". Sitting around one table requires that each one should have a clear stance before the discussion starts. It also requires that true openness and willingness to accept the mind of the whole. We do not have to be in the communion to sit around the one table. We do so when we dialogue with the Roman Catholic Church, the Orthodox and with other faiths. It would be extremely difficult to sit around one table when you have already decided the outcome if the discussion and when you ignore the many voices, warnings and appeals from around the communion.
Today I appeal to you to respond with great clarity to the requests that were made in Dar Es Salaam. If you accepted the Primates' recommendations, would you be able to give assurances to the Executive Committee of the General Convention of TEC would ratify your response? It is the responsibility of the bishop to guard the faith as we promise during our consecration. In many of not most parts of the Communion and the historic churches, present and ancient, matters of faith and order, is the responsibility and therefore the authority of the Bishops to safeguard and teach.
If you don't commit yourself to the Dar Es Salaam recommendations would you be willing to walk apart at least for a period during which we continue our discussions and dialogue until we reach a common understanding, especially about the essentials of our faith? Forgive me when I say that for many of us in the Communion, we feel that you have already walked apart at least theologically from the standard teaching of the Communion.
I know that you value personal freedom and independence. The whole world learns this from you. You need to demonstrate this by securing freedom for the American orthodox Anglicans who do not share your theological direction. Show your spirit of inclusiveness when you deal with them. I am afraid to say that without this more and more interventions from other provinces is going to happen. No one wants this.
I pray for wisdom and grace, for myself as well as for you, and I pray that God will lead us both in the right direction. Remember the illustrious history of God's church and remember future generations who will sit in judgment on us. Remember also that the whole world is waiting and watching what you do.
Please forgive me if I have said anything that offends you.
May the Lord bless you.
---Archbishop Mouneer is Bishop of the Episcopal/Anglican Diocese of Egypt with North Africa and the Horn of Africa. He is President Bishop of the Episcopal/Anglican province of
Jerusalem and the Middle East.
--from Virtue Online. This says it all, it says it well, and it was said in the spirit of the love of Christ. And in this speech Archbishop Mouneer, in my estimation, was doing the thing, besides guarding the faith, that he is called to most--being a pastor.
br. francis
NEW ORLEANS: Egyptian Primate says TEC Must Accept Consequences of its Decisions
Archbishop Mouneer Anis addresses the House of Bishops in New Orleans
Sept. 20, 2007
Someone a moment ago handed me this speech. It was just delivered on the floor. I am typing it up and will post updates as I proceed...so keep refreshing... Dear Brothers and Sisters,
Thank you so much for inviting me here to come and listen to you and for giving me the opportunity to share my heart with you. I am very aware of my own shortcomings and weaknesses, but every word I want to say is out of love and concern for the unity of the Church of Christ.
I do not come with great authority, nor am I the primate of a province with a great number of Anglicans; I do however, come from a region where Christ walked and where the Church was born. I come representing the Church of Jerusalem and the Middle East.
The Church in this region has faced many challenges since the first century. Our brothers and sisters in the early centuries were ready to sacrifice their very lives to stay true to the Faith they received from the Lord and his Apostles. Their blood was not in vain; rather it became the seed of the Church across our entire region. Many disputes and heresies took place in our region. In face of all the challenges, persecutions, and heresies our ancestors-people like St. Athanasius, St. Clement, Origen, and Cyril from Alexandria, along with Tertullian, Cyprian, and St. Augustine from North Africa-kept the faith of the One Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church. We are constantly learning from our ancient martyrs and forebearers how to serve the Kingdom of God faithfully.
Today our Anglican Church in the Middle East still lives within a very exciting and challenging context. We live among the Oriental Orthodox, the Greek Orthodox, the Catholics, the Jews and the Muslims. We greatly value our ecumenical relations and continue to work for unity.
We also deeply respect and appreciate our Muslim friends and value our interfaith relations while in no way compromise our faith. I have to tell you that many of these relations were severely strained after your decision to consecrate Gene Robinson as bishop in 2003. We are seen as the new heretics and this has hindered our ecumenical and interfaith relations as well as our mission in the region
My friends, like you, we want to be relevant to the culture in which we live. More importantly, we want to be salt and light to our societies. That is not an easy calling but it means we must remain distinct and humble at the same time. Without being distinct we cannot be salt and light; without humility we will not represent the one who said, "I am meek and lowly in heart." We are also continuously challenged whether we should allow the culture to transform the Apostolic Faith we once received, or if we should allow the Gospel of Jesus Christ to transform our culture as it has in the past. As we struggle to answer this question we must never divorce ourselves from the faith that countless men, women and children died to protect. I believer that if we faithfully serve the Church of Christ, He will continue to fulfill his promise that the gates of Hades will not prevail against her.
Rupertus Meldenius said, "In essentials, unity; in non-essentials, liberty; in all things, charity". Our hope is to be united on the essentials of faith which are defined only by the whole church. WE are not in any way trying to impose rigid views on you. Like you we celebrate diversity, but we believe that such diversity should not be unlimited and should not contradict the essentials of our faith. We are not schismatic, but we are diligent to preserve the unity of the spirit in the bond of peace. We want unity but not unity at any expense.
Anglicans are aware with humility that we are not "the" church but we are one member of the body of Christ, the one Holy Catholic Church. We proclaim this every week in our churches. This places upon us the responsibility to listen to and respect our ecumenical partners.
My friends, you may believe you have discovered a very different truth from that of the majority in the Anglican Communion. It is not just about sexuality, but about your views of Christ, the Gospel, and the authority of the Bible. Please forgive me when I relay that some say you are a different church, others even think that you are a different religion.
I understand that it is difficult for you in your context to accept the standard teaching of the Anglican Communion. That is why you refused to accept Lambeth Conference Resolution 1.10. You also ignored all the warnings of the Primates in 2003, 2004, and 2005. Your response to the Windsor Report is seen by the Primates as not clear. You cannot say you value being a member of the Anglican Communion while you ignore the interdependence if the member churches. The interdependence is what differentiates us from other congregational churches. I would like to remind you and myself with the famous resolution number 49 of the Lambeth Conference of 1930 which declares "the Anglican Communion is a fellowship of churches that...are bound together not by a central legislative and executive authority, but by mutual loyalty sustained through the common counsel of the bishops in conference." With respect, I have to say that those who would prefer to speak of laws and procedures, constitutions and canons, committees and process: you are missing the point! It is our mutual loyalty and fellowship, submitting to one another in the common cause of Jesus Christ that makes us of one Church one faith and one Lord.
It is clear that you actions have resulted in one the most difficult disputes in the Communion in our generation. You may see them as not core doctrinal issues. Many like me see the opposite but the thing that we all cannot ignore is that these issues are divisive and have created a lot of undesired consequences and reactions. For the first time in centuries, the fabric of our Communion is torn. Our energies have been drained and our resources are lost and it is difficult for both of us to continue like this.
My friends, if you really believe that the truth revealed to you is different from that shown to the rest of the Communion, then you need to uphold that claim with boldness even at the risk of losing unity. If you think it is right and necessary to ordain and consecrate practicing homosexuals and that you should bless same sex partnerships or even marriages, you should be true to what you believe is right and accept the consequences.
However, if you appreciate being members of the global Anglican family, then you have to walk along side the members of your family. Those who say it is important to stay together around the table, to listen to each other and to continue our dialogue over the difficult issues that are facing us are wise. We wholeheartedly agree with this, but staying around the table requires that you should not take actions that are contrary to the standard position (Lambeth 1.10) of the rest of the Communion.
Sitting around one table requires humility from all of us. One church cannot say to the rest of churches "I know the whole truth, you don't". Archbishop Rowan reminded us in his paper "Challenge and Hope" that "the whole truth is revealed to the whole church". Sitting around one table requires that each one should have a clear stance before the discussion starts. It also requires that true openness and willingness to accept the mind of the whole. We do not have to be in the communion to sit around the one table. We do so when we dialogue with the Roman Catholic Church, the Orthodox and with other faiths. It would be extremely difficult to sit around one table when you have already decided the outcome if the discussion and when you ignore the many voices, warnings and appeals from around the communion.
Today I appeal to you to respond with great clarity to the requests that were made in Dar Es Salaam. If you accepted the Primates' recommendations, would you be able to give assurances to the Executive Committee of the General Convention of TEC would ratify your response? It is the responsibility of the bishop to guard the faith as we promise during our consecration. In many of not most parts of the Communion and the historic churches, present and ancient, matters of faith and order, is the responsibility and therefore the authority of the Bishops to safeguard and teach.
If you don't commit yourself to the Dar Es Salaam recommendations would you be willing to walk apart at least for a period during which we continue our discussions and dialogue until we reach a common understanding, especially about the essentials of our faith? Forgive me when I say that for many of us in the Communion, we feel that you have already walked apart at least theologically from the standard teaching of the Communion.
I know that you value personal freedom and independence. The whole world learns this from you. You need to demonstrate this by securing freedom for the American orthodox Anglicans who do not share your theological direction. Show your spirit of inclusiveness when you deal with them. I am afraid to say that without this more and more interventions from other provinces is going to happen. No one wants this.
I pray for wisdom and grace, for myself as well as for you, and I pray that God will lead us both in the right direction. Remember the illustrious history of God's church and remember future generations who will sit in judgment on us. Remember also that the whole world is waiting and watching what you do.
Please forgive me if I have said anything that offends you.
May the Lord bless you.
---Archbishop Mouneer is Bishop of the Episcopal/Anglican Diocese of Egypt with North Africa and the Horn of Africa. He is President Bishop of the Episcopal/Anglican province of
Jerusalem and the Middle East.
--from Virtue Online. This says it all, it says it well, and it was said in the spirit of the love of Christ. And in this speech Archbishop Mouneer, in my estimation, was doing the thing, besides guarding the faith, that he is called to most--being a pastor.
br. francis
Meeting
Normally, I wouldn't do this on my blog. But I've gotta say these things and get them off my chest.
The Archbishop of Canterbury's response to his meeting with the Episcopal Church's House of Bishops is found wanting. In a nutshell, they continue to say they will continue to ordain non-celibate homosexual persons and to bless same-sex couples (no surprise). He says that the September 30 deadline set by the primates for them to say they will cease this wasn't a deadline, but that there needs to be more discussion. What more discussion is needed? The time for discussion of these matters is done. There has been more than enough discussion about what Holy Scripture clearly states is a sin. We all agree that all persons should be loved, won to Christ, and welcomed in His Church. What we disagree on is whether a person should submit to Christ and be changed by Him--from something His written Word calls sin, to a lifestyle that His Word says is holy unto Him --i.e. either marriage to a spouse of the opposite sex, or celibacy. What is left to be discussed? Your Grace, most of us around the world that are Anglican, yea, the rest of the whole Church, agree that this has been discussed ad nauseum.
God has spoken to His people through faithful bishops and in Holy Scripture. No ecumenical council has ever received the leading of the Holy Spirit that the interpretation of statements in Scripture concerning homosexual behavior were wrong.
We were taught in Bible college from day one: The Spirit of God will never lead us to believe, say or do anything contrary to what is clearly written in Holy Scripture.
br. francis
Normally, I wouldn't do this on my blog. But I've gotta say these things and get them off my chest.
The Archbishop of Canterbury's response to his meeting with the Episcopal Church's House of Bishops is found wanting. In a nutshell, they continue to say they will continue to ordain non-celibate homosexual persons and to bless same-sex couples (no surprise). He says that the September 30 deadline set by the primates for them to say they will cease this wasn't a deadline, but that there needs to be more discussion. What more discussion is needed? The time for discussion of these matters is done. There has been more than enough discussion about what Holy Scripture clearly states is a sin. We all agree that all persons should be loved, won to Christ, and welcomed in His Church. What we disagree on is whether a person should submit to Christ and be changed by Him--from something His written Word calls sin, to a lifestyle that His Word says is holy unto Him --i.e. either marriage to a spouse of the opposite sex, or celibacy. What is left to be discussed? Your Grace, most of us around the world that are Anglican, yea, the rest of the whole Church, agree that this has been discussed ad nauseum.
God has spoken to His people through faithful bishops and in Holy Scripture. No ecumenical council has ever received the leading of the Holy Spirit that the interpretation of statements in Scripture concerning homosexual behavior were wrong.
We were taught in Bible college from day one: The Spirit of God will never lead us to believe, say or do anything contrary to what is clearly written in Holy Scripture.
br. francis
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Coffee
I love coffee. I really do. It doesn't need creamer, flavored or not, and in my humble but accurate opinion, flavored creamers mask the taste of the coffee.
That's OK if you like creamer, flavored or not, in your coffee. My wife does. And I'm happy that she drinks coffee with me in the morning. (She didn't before we were married.)
I like flavored coffee. My favorite is French Roast. The flavor that is already in the coffee is perfect for me. Shirley and I buy our coffee (most of the time) from Ross (yes, the clothing store)--they have great coffee and it's half the price of Starbucks--yet nearly as good.
I began to be a coffee drinker my first year in Bible college, when I had to stay up half the night writing papers. And when I was in Chicago, we went to a place that roasted their beans twice a week. So we took fresh bean home all the time, it was better than Starbucks, and fresher! And it was half the price. The French Roast rocked.
OK, once in a while if the flavored creamer is VERY good, I will have a bit. (especially if it's Irish Cream) But, 99% of the time, the coffee is great black.
The only thing I DON'T like about coffee is something that rarely happens, but that just did--the bottom of the pot has grounds. That I don't like. But at 6 am Monday and Tuesday or 7 am Wed-Fri, when Sr. Clare comes over for Morning Prayer, the coffee is ON! The 'Communion Cafe' is open, my brothers and sisters!--every morning and evening that Chapel of St. Francis worships here at Mercy House. Welcome and enjoy prayer to and worship of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ--and a good, hot cup of coffee. So good. :)
br. francis
I love coffee. I really do. It doesn't need creamer, flavored or not, and in my humble but accurate opinion, flavored creamers mask the taste of the coffee.
That's OK if you like creamer, flavored or not, in your coffee. My wife does. And I'm happy that she drinks coffee with me in the morning. (She didn't before we were married.)
I like flavored coffee. My favorite is French Roast. The flavor that is already in the coffee is perfect for me. Shirley and I buy our coffee (most of the time) from Ross (yes, the clothing store)--they have great coffee and it's half the price of Starbucks--yet nearly as good.
I began to be a coffee drinker my first year in Bible college, when I had to stay up half the night writing papers. And when I was in Chicago, we went to a place that roasted their beans twice a week. So we took fresh bean home all the time, it was better than Starbucks, and fresher! And it was half the price. The French Roast rocked.
OK, once in a while if the flavored creamer is VERY good, I will have a bit. (especially if it's Irish Cream) But, 99% of the time, the coffee is great black.
The only thing I DON'T like about coffee is something that rarely happens, but that just did--the bottom of the pot has grounds. That I don't like. But at 6 am Monday and Tuesday or 7 am Wed-Fri, when Sr. Clare comes over for Morning Prayer, the coffee is ON! The 'Communion Cafe' is open, my brothers and sisters!--every morning and evening that Chapel of St. Francis worships here at Mercy House. Welcome and enjoy prayer to and worship of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ--and a good, hot cup of coffee. So good. :)
br. francis
Prayer for bishops
The Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr. Rowan Williams, is meeting this week with Episcopal Church USA (TEC) House of Bishops. TEC was in February given a September 30 deadline by the Anglican Communion primates to end all ordinations of non-celibate homosexuals and of blessings for same-sex couples, or face expulsion from the Communion.
Some of TEC's bishops have made public statements that they will not cease these unbiblical practices and that the US province should say "no" to the primates' demand that the church return to faithfulness to Christ and to the apostolic faith as written in the Bible.
We are to welcome all into the Church and lead them to know and follow Christ--yet not condone their sin.
Our God still performs miracles. Let us pray that a miracle occurs this week within the hearts of bishops.
My Anglican jurisdiction is not affiliated with TEC, and you may not attend or be a member of a TEC church. But, brothers and sisters, this is the Church, and we're talking about pastors in the church, chief pastors, who have taken an oath at their ordination to uphold and teach the apostolic faith and remain true to Christ and His Word the Bible. This is a crucial moment in the life of the Church, and millions are affected by the decisions, teachings, and lifestyles of these bishops. We must stand in prayer for God to work a miracle.
There are some of these bishops who are faithful. Some are planning to leave if the miracle does not occur. We must especially be in prayer for them, as well.
Paul wrote that when one part of the Body of Christ hurts, we all hurt with it.
br. francis
The Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr. Rowan Williams, is meeting this week with Episcopal Church USA (TEC) House of Bishops. TEC was in February given a September 30 deadline by the Anglican Communion primates to end all ordinations of non-celibate homosexuals and of blessings for same-sex couples, or face expulsion from the Communion.
Some of TEC's bishops have made public statements that they will not cease these unbiblical practices and that the US province should say "no" to the primates' demand that the church return to faithfulness to Christ and to the apostolic faith as written in the Bible.
We are to welcome all into the Church and lead them to know and follow Christ--yet not condone their sin.
Our God still performs miracles. Let us pray that a miracle occurs this week within the hearts of bishops.
My Anglican jurisdiction is not affiliated with TEC, and you may not attend or be a member of a TEC church. But, brothers and sisters, this is the Church, and we're talking about pastors in the church, chief pastors, who have taken an oath at their ordination to uphold and teach the apostolic faith and remain true to Christ and His Word the Bible. This is a crucial moment in the life of the Church, and millions are affected by the decisions, teachings, and lifestyles of these bishops. We must stand in prayer for God to work a miracle.
There are some of these bishops who are faithful. Some are planning to leave if the miracle does not occur. We must especially be in prayer for them, as well.
Paul wrote that when one part of the Body of Christ hurts, we all hurt with it.
br. francis
Monday, September 17, 2007
Holy Cross/Shirley's Birthday
Last Friday was the feast of the Triumph of the Holy Cross. We celebrated it as a parish yesterday, on Sunday. And we also celebrated my lovely wife Shirley's birthday.
Brother-and-sister-in-law Jeff, Susanna, and nephew Benjamin were here from Ft. Worth. And our friends Mitch and Elizabeth from Southern Hills Baptist visited and celebrated as well.
It was a great time of worship, fellowship, and food. We ate at Jin-Wei (sp.?), a Japanese buffet, authentic according to my wife, and she and Susanna said the sushi was good (I don't eat it..........:) ). Our music was good, as well. Clare and I attempted some new music, and it went fairly well.
We always eat lunch together after worship. If you're looking for a church in the evangelical Anglican tradition with life--come and see.
Next month we celebrate the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi. I know he wouldn't want us to make a fuss over him, or eat too well, but...oh, well. Sorry, brother.
br. francis
Last Friday was the feast of the Triumph of the Holy Cross. We celebrated it as a parish yesterday, on Sunday. And we also celebrated my lovely wife Shirley's birthday.
Brother-and-sister-in-law Jeff, Susanna, and nephew Benjamin were here from Ft. Worth. And our friends Mitch and Elizabeth from Southern Hills Baptist visited and celebrated as well.
It was a great time of worship, fellowship, and food. We ate at Jin-Wei (sp.?), a Japanese buffet, authentic according to my wife, and she and Susanna said the sushi was good (I don't eat it..........:) ). Our music was good, as well. Clare and I attempted some new music, and it went fairly well.
We always eat lunch together after worship. If you're looking for a church in the evangelical Anglican tradition with life--come and see.
Next month we celebrate the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi. I know he wouldn't want us to make a fuss over him, or eat too well, but...oh, well. Sorry, brother.
br. francis
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Finally
The event that millions have waited for, and drummers especially, will now finally come.
The remaining members of Led Zeppelin will do a reunion concert!
Nov. 26, they, with the late drummer John Bonham's son Jason on drums, and a few other bands, will salute the Atlantic Records founder who passed last year. He signed Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, and Zep to his label--Zeppelin was the first rock band he signed.
If there is talk of further shows, they're quiet about it.
Two CD's will be released by the band in conjunction with the show.
Bonham is my favorite drummer (he and Peart) and Zep my favorite rock band. This is very nice to see. Sorry that John isn't here to play it. God's mercy be upon Him.
br. francis
The event that millions have waited for, and drummers especially, will now finally come.
The remaining members of Led Zeppelin will do a reunion concert!
Nov. 26, they, with the late drummer John Bonham's son Jason on drums, and a few other bands, will salute the Atlantic Records founder who passed last year. He signed Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, and Zep to his label--Zeppelin was the first rock band he signed.
If there is talk of further shows, they're quiet about it.
Two CD's will be released by the band in conjunction with the show.
Bonham is my favorite drummer (he and Peart) and Zep my favorite rock band. This is very nice to see. Sorry that John isn't here to play it. God's mercy be upon Him.
br. francis
Sunday, September 09, 2007
Radio
We are to, as best as we can, fulfill the callings God has given each of us. However, as we all know, we have to wait for some of them.
I was privileged to do radio for about 24 years in the Houston, Texas area. Most of it was Christian radio, and some of it was mainstream, or so-called secular. After all that, I know that part of my calling is to do radio in a Christian music ministry format. Thus far, I've had no bites here in Oklahoma. (Although I do have some "canned" breaks running on a 4am-7am air shift at an internet station. Those were recorded before I left with Shirley to come here, almost a year ago.)
Just got a bite. And not only a bite--I was asked to do a show on a station, probably the "afternoon drive"--3-7pm. Once everything is hammered out, the Lord will have me back on the air for ministry, for Him. It is hard to wait to do something we know He has called us to do. But eventually, He opens the door.
Of course, I am thrilled. Thanks be to God!
br. francis
We are to, as best as we can, fulfill the callings God has given each of us. However, as we all know, we have to wait for some of them.
I was privileged to do radio for about 24 years in the Houston, Texas area. Most of it was Christian radio, and some of it was mainstream, or so-called secular. After all that, I know that part of my calling is to do radio in a Christian music ministry format. Thus far, I've had no bites here in Oklahoma. (Although I do have some "canned" breaks running on a 4am-7am air shift at an internet station. Those were recorded before I left with Shirley to come here, almost a year ago.)
Just got a bite. And not only a bite--I was asked to do a show on a station, probably the "afternoon drive"--3-7pm. Once everything is hammered out, the Lord will have me back on the air for ministry, for Him. It is hard to wait to do something we know He has called us to do. But eventually, He opens the door.
Of course, I am thrilled. Thanks be to God!
br. francis
Wednesday, September 05, 2007
New web page
No, our United Convergence Church web page is no longer online. Look for our new site--www.thecommunionoftheholytrinity.org.
Keep checking back--it should be up soon. I am excited and looking forward to the changes that will be made to the site.
We are an orthodox communion in the Anglican tradition and we welcome you. We stand on the Scriptures as the written Word of God, believe in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, "the only mediator between God and men." We hold to the ancient catholic faith, believing what was believed by the whole Church when she was one.
If you are looking for a church in the Anglican tradition that is conservative and having the life of the Holy Spirit, we welcome you. Email or call if we can be of help to you. Join us for worship if you're in the area. Chapel of St. Francis parish meets at Mercy House. Our address and service times, and more info, is at www.netministries.org/see/churches/ch07969.
May God bless you and give you peace.
br. francis
No, our United Convergence Church web page is no longer online. Look for our new site--www.thecommunionoftheholytrinity.org.
Keep checking back--it should be up soon. I am excited and looking forward to the changes that will be made to the site.
We are an orthodox communion in the Anglican tradition and we welcome you. We stand on the Scriptures as the written Word of God, believe in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, "the only mediator between God and men." We hold to the ancient catholic faith, believing what was believed by the whole Church when she was one.
If you are looking for a church in the Anglican tradition that is conservative and having the life of the Holy Spirit, we welcome you. Email or call if we can be of help to you. Join us for worship if you're in the area. Chapel of St. Francis parish meets at Mercy House. Our address and service times, and more info, is at www.netministries.org/see/churches/ch07969.
May God bless you and give you peace.
br. francis
Monday, September 03, 2007
Phoebe
Today is the feast of Deacon Phoebe. She is commended by Paul in Romans 16:1.
We had a great time yesterday. My Irish Stew turned out pretty well, and we enjoyed some Guinness and Shiner Bock. And last night--no one will believe me--Shirley and I watched The Sound of Music. Here's what no one will believe--I had never seen it before. True. Loved it--it's now one of my favorite movies. Loved the music and story. Great movie.
I worked today on Labor Day. The hotel was quiet, but I did drive a few folks back and forth from Will Rogers Airport. All in all, a nice, quiet day. Enjoying the evening now with my lovely Bride, trying to help get her well. She's got a nice cold. :(
blessings,
br. francis
Today is the feast of Deacon Phoebe. She is commended by Paul in Romans 16:1.
We had a great time yesterday. My Irish Stew turned out pretty well, and we enjoyed some Guinness and Shiner Bock. And last night--no one will believe me--Shirley and I watched The Sound of Music. Here's what no one will believe--I had never seen it before. True. Loved it--it's now one of my favorite movies. Loved the music and story. Great movie.
I worked today on Labor Day. The hotel was quiet, but I did drive a few folks back and forth from Will Rogers Airport. All in all, a nice, quiet day. Enjoying the evening now with my lovely Bride, trying to help get her well. She's got a nice cold. :(
blessings,
br. francis
Saturday, September 01, 2007
Saturday before Aidan Sunday
Yes, I know that in the Church Calendar there's no such thing. It's just my title for this blog entry so it can be dated and named.
Tomorrow, however, we will, as a parish, celebrate bishop and monk Aidan. I have prepared the Irish Stew and it's in the crock pot (yeah, I know--it's the easy way, leave me alone....! :) ). Gotta pick up some Guinness in a bit. (We have some Shiner in the fridge, too.)
We worshiped with our friends Mitch and Elizabeth at their Baptist church last Sunday night. The music and praise and worship, message and fellowship was good. They followed us here for spaghetti, jammin' by Mitch and me (Mitch is a guitarist), and an impromptu Pipe Club (the first of many here).
I was reminded that we are all the Church. Shirley and I, when asked what kind of Christians we are, often say we are "mutts." To me, that's synonymous with catholic. All baptized believers (and those who believe who are on the way to baptism) are part of the one Church. Jesus didn't institute a bunch of denominations--He instituted one holy, catholic and apostolic Church. That's it. Plain and simple. No one branch of the Church has it all right.
Although I will be ordained as a priest in apostolic succession next Summer, I will be a Christian minister first, and an Anglican one second. My call is to serve everyone as best as I can, not just one branch or part of the Church. That calling involves serving those on the edge or outside the Church, whether Christians or not. I'm also praying about how I may have dialogue (as did Thomas Merton) with those in other religions who are seeking God. We must be ready to give an answer, in season and out, and be all things to all men, as the Apostle Paul wrote to us.
I am grieved at recent statements from Pope Benedict and the Archbishop of York. Benedict said we weren't really part of the Church if we weren't part of the Roman Catholic Church. My faith and baptism brought me into the Church, not what part of it I happen to be confirmed in or a member in. The Scriptures and Church Fathers teach us this. The Archbishop of York recently stated to conservative Anglican primates that if they didn't show for Lambeth next year, they were removing themselves from the Anglican Communion and were therefore no longer Anglican. He said Anglicanism is through Canterbury. I beg to differ, Your Grace. The Christian Church was established on English soil in 63 A.D. at Glastonbury, not at Canterbury. The Gospel was spread from there by monks who were faithful to Christ and His Word, not by so-called bishops who believe more in post-modernism than in Christ as Lord and His written Word, the precepts of which are timeless. The English Church is traced back to Glastonbury. All who are true to the Faith once delivered who are of the Anglican tradition trace their roots back to Glastonbury, not Canterbury.
As a monk, it resounds deep within my heart that monks from the first Christian community in Great Britain, Glastonbury, took the Gospel out from there and brought Christ to those who would receive Him.
Praise God for His redemption and deliverance through Christ!
Join us tomorrow for authentic ancient-future Christian worship. The Chapel of St. Francis parish meets here at Mercy House, 5901 NW 62nd St. at MacArthur, Sundays at 10:30 am and Wednesdays at 7 pm for Eucharist. Morning Prayer and Communion is here every weekday morning--Monday and Tuesday at 6 am, Wednesday through Friday at 7 am.
We welcome you in Christ's Name. Come as you are.
br. francis
Yes, I know that in the Church Calendar there's no such thing. It's just my title for this blog entry so it can be dated and named.
Tomorrow, however, we will, as a parish, celebrate bishop and monk Aidan. I have prepared the Irish Stew and it's in the crock pot (yeah, I know--it's the easy way, leave me alone....! :) ). Gotta pick up some Guinness in a bit. (We have some Shiner in the fridge, too.)
We worshiped with our friends Mitch and Elizabeth at their Baptist church last Sunday night. The music and praise and worship, message and fellowship was good. They followed us here for spaghetti, jammin' by Mitch and me (Mitch is a guitarist), and an impromptu Pipe Club (the first of many here).
I was reminded that we are all the Church. Shirley and I, when asked what kind of Christians we are, often say we are "mutts." To me, that's synonymous with catholic. All baptized believers (and those who believe who are on the way to baptism) are part of the one Church. Jesus didn't institute a bunch of denominations--He instituted one holy, catholic and apostolic Church. That's it. Plain and simple. No one branch of the Church has it all right.
Although I will be ordained as a priest in apostolic succession next Summer, I will be a Christian minister first, and an Anglican one second. My call is to serve everyone as best as I can, not just one branch or part of the Church. That calling involves serving those on the edge or outside the Church, whether Christians or not. I'm also praying about how I may have dialogue (as did Thomas Merton) with those in other religions who are seeking God. We must be ready to give an answer, in season and out, and be all things to all men, as the Apostle Paul wrote to us.
I am grieved at recent statements from Pope Benedict and the Archbishop of York. Benedict said we weren't really part of the Church if we weren't part of the Roman Catholic Church. My faith and baptism brought me into the Church, not what part of it I happen to be confirmed in or a member in. The Scriptures and Church Fathers teach us this. The Archbishop of York recently stated to conservative Anglican primates that if they didn't show for Lambeth next year, they were removing themselves from the Anglican Communion and were therefore no longer Anglican. He said Anglicanism is through Canterbury. I beg to differ, Your Grace. The Christian Church was established on English soil in 63 A.D. at Glastonbury, not at Canterbury. The Gospel was spread from there by monks who were faithful to Christ and His Word, not by so-called bishops who believe more in post-modernism than in Christ as Lord and His written Word, the precepts of which are timeless. The English Church is traced back to Glastonbury. All who are true to the Faith once delivered who are of the Anglican tradition trace their roots back to Glastonbury, not Canterbury.
As a monk, it resounds deep within my heart that monks from the first Christian community in Great Britain, Glastonbury, took the Gospel out from there and brought Christ to those who would receive Him.
Praise God for His redemption and deliverance through Christ!
Join us tomorrow for authentic ancient-future Christian worship. The Chapel of St. Francis parish meets here at Mercy House, 5901 NW 62nd St. at MacArthur, Sundays at 10:30 am and Wednesdays at 7 pm for Eucharist. Morning Prayer and Communion is here every weekday morning--Monday and Tuesday at 6 am, Wednesday through Friday at 7 am.
We welcome you in Christ's Name. Come as you are.
br. francis
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)
