"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
Saturday, September 22, 2007
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
Friday, August 31, 2007
Aidan day
Today is the feast day of St. Aidan, the gentle yet strong monastic bishop from Iona who lived Christ everywhere. He gave away all that he might find Christ, and be found by Him, and was compassionate and intense in his faith to all he encountered. He offered Christ as Lord, Savior, and Friend to all. He pastored others and enjoyed times of solitude. When I took permanent vows, I nearly took his name (or Aidan Francis -- I went back and forth on the name for a while). I have been very impressed with this man of God for a few years.
Sunday, we will have an Aidan/Celtic day. We'll have music, fellowship, good worship in Communion, and I will try my hand at Irish Stew. Of course, we'll have Guinness on hand. And at lunch we'll talk of Aidan and Celtic monasticism, and what influence that should have on us today as believers. I think I have a video documentary on Celtic monasticism, too, that I haven't yet watched. Might drag it out.
We're looking forward to a great day. Join us if you're in the area.
br. francis
Today is the feast day of St. Aidan, the gentle yet strong monastic bishop from Iona who lived Christ everywhere. He gave away all that he might find Christ, and be found by Him, and was compassionate and intense in his faith to all he encountered. He offered Christ as Lord, Savior, and Friend to all. He pastored others and enjoyed times of solitude. When I took permanent vows, I nearly took his name (or Aidan Francis -- I went back and forth on the name for a while). I have been very impressed with this man of God for a few years.
Sunday, we will have an Aidan/Celtic day. We'll have music, fellowship, good worship in Communion, and I will try my hand at Irish Stew. Of course, we'll have Guinness on hand. And at lunch we'll talk of Aidan and Celtic monasticism, and what influence that should have on us today as believers. I think I have a video documentary on Celtic monasticism, too, that I haven't yet watched. Might drag it out.
We're looking forward to a great day. Join us if you're in the area.
br. francis
Saturday, August 25, 2007
Hello, it's Louis IX's feast day
He was a good king, a Franciscan, and wore a hair shirt. Besides his two failed crusades, a good example to us all in the living out of our faith.
Quiet Saturday at Mercy House. Shirley is at work, I go soon, and I've updated our Mercy House web page--www.netministries.org/see/churches/ch07969.
Did a lot of surfing today--some of 'emergent' churches in the UK. While I can't much appreciate the doctrinal openness, there's a lot to appreciate. One really good-looking church I found--apostles church. www.apostleschurch.org.
The thing about us, is that we believe in the Creeds--Apostles, Nicene, and Athanasian. We choose to not debate the doctrinal issues that have split the Church (gifts, eschatology, arminian-vs.-calvinism, etc.). Our theology and practice is that of the ancient Church.
We hope your weekend is good and pray you have good worship tonight or tomorrow. Join us if you're in the OKC area.
br. francis
He was a good king, a Franciscan, and wore a hair shirt. Besides his two failed crusades, a good example to us all in the living out of our faith.
Quiet Saturday at Mercy House. Shirley is at work, I go soon, and I've updated our Mercy House web page--www.netministries.org/see/churches/ch07969.
Did a lot of surfing today--some of 'emergent' churches in the UK. While I can't much appreciate the doctrinal openness, there's a lot to appreciate. One really good-looking church I found--apostles church. www.apostleschurch.org.
The thing about us, is that we believe in the Creeds--Apostles, Nicene, and Athanasian. We choose to not debate the doctrinal issues that have split the Church (gifts, eschatology, arminian-vs.-calvinism, etc.). Our theology and practice is that of the ancient Church.
We hope your weekend is good and pray you have good worship tonight or tomorrow. Join us if you're in the OKC area.
br. francis
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Aidan
Friday, August 31st is the Feast of Aidan. Of course, we're going to move his observance to the next day, on Sunday.
I'm going to make Irish Stew, bring out more green candles, and have plenty of Guinness on hand. We'll have Eucharist, then lunch and fellowship. We'll probably have to add some Celtic music to our worship. It's going to be a fun Celtic Sunday! :)
If you're in the area, you're welcome to join us.
br. francis
Friday, August 31st is the Feast of Aidan. Of course, we're going to move his observance to the next day, on Sunday.
I'm going to make Irish Stew, bring out more green candles, and have plenty of Guinness on hand. We'll have Eucharist, then lunch and fellowship. We'll probably have to add some Celtic music to our worship. It's going to be a fun Celtic Sunday! :)
If you're in the area, you're welcome to join us.
br. francis
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Failure is a good thing
Before I begin this post: In the player: Atomic Opera -- Penguin Dust.
Failure teaches us to press toward the goal(s) we have, and to not give up, if it's still possible to reach that goal. Failure teaches us how to "fine-tune" our efforts to reach that goal. it teaches us precisely what is necessary to accomplish that goal. It teaches us how to better accomplish that goal.
The ancient Celtic Christians liked things that were on the "edge" between one thing and another, especially geographically. They found it easier to pray and commune with God in these places. And more so than the rest of the Church, they lived on the "edge"--their monastic communities were on the edge of active and contemplative. They went to the quiet places to commune with God, and then back into the world to be Christians, to live their faith out in the callings they had.
Thankfully, our monastic order is this way. I have long sat on the line between my contemplative practices and my active practice. I am called to play drums in a rock band of some sort, and have prayed through this desire and call for a while--it must be balanced with my study and call to the priesthood. The attempt at a rock band that fizzled here a few months ago was discouraging, but left me with a clarification of how that call was to play out in my life.
The guitarist of that failed band showed up at our door a couple of nights ago, with a desire to begin again. I have more say in the new effort than in the failed one, and will be able to write a lot. The rehearsals and playing out will better fit my schedule. The guitarist has 8-track recording equipment and a lot of studio time at a recording studio. So we'll begin writing and recording, probably next week, and in the future do an album.
I am excited. We must persevere in prayer, and not give up. Our God will answer.
br. francis
Before I begin this post: In the player: Atomic Opera -- Penguin Dust.
Failure teaches us to press toward the goal(s) we have, and to not give up, if it's still possible to reach that goal. Failure teaches us how to "fine-tune" our efforts to reach that goal. it teaches us precisely what is necessary to accomplish that goal. It teaches us how to better accomplish that goal.
The ancient Celtic Christians liked things that were on the "edge" between one thing and another, especially geographically. They found it easier to pray and commune with God in these places. And more so than the rest of the Church, they lived on the "edge"--their monastic communities were on the edge of active and contemplative. They went to the quiet places to commune with God, and then back into the world to be Christians, to live their faith out in the callings they had.
Thankfully, our monastic order is this way. I have long sat on the line between my contemplative practices and my active practice. I am called to play drums in a rock band of some sort, and have prayed through this desire and call for a while--it must be balanced with my study and call to the priesthood. The attempt at a rock band that fizzled here a few months ago was discouraging, but left me with a clarification of how that call was to play out in my life.
The guitarist of that failed band showed up at our door a couple of nights ago, with a desire to begin again. I have more say in the new effort than in the failed one, and will be able to write a lot. The rehearsals and playing out will better fit my schedule. The guitarist has 8-track recording equipment and a lot of studio time at a recording studio. So we'll begin writing and recording, probably next week, and in the future do an album.
I am excited. We must persevere in prayer, and not give up. Our God will answer.
br. francis
Sunday, August 19, 2007
Bernard Sunday
Yeah, I know, there's no such thing.........tomorrow is the Feast of Bernard, Abbot of Clairveouax, so we celebrated him at church today. Ivy brought beans and cornbread, and it rocked! (Sorry, got carried away again.!) Our worship was good today. Bishop/Abbot Jim preached on the love of Christ and laying our lives down--something we need to be reminded often that we need to do.
If you're in the OKC area, and are looking for convergence worship--evangelical, sacramental, Spirit-filled--we want to welcome you. Come as you are. Sunday at 10:30 am and Wednesday at 7:30 pm we have worship with Holy Eucharist (Communion). Sunday we eat lunch together after, and Wednesday we have a class after. We always have good coffee and tea (I call it the Communion Cafe). Monday through Friday we have Morning Prayer with Communion (a Deacon's Mass)--Mon and Tue it's at 6 am, Wed-Fri it's at 7 am. It is about 30 minutes, and we have coffee and tea.
Our church here doesn't have cultural barriers--we welcome everybody. Come as you are. Jeans, t-shirts and shorts are expected. Hair style doesn't matter. Neither do piercings or tatoos. Man looks at the outside--God looks at our hearts. This is a house church, and we're not here to show off our new suits--we can do that at work.
Join us Wednesday or tomorrow for Morning Prayer and Communion, if you're in the area.
I'm going to go back in and hang with my wife now. :)
br. francis
Yeah, I know, there's no such thing.........tomorrow is the Feast of Bernard, Abbot of Clairveouax, so we celebrated him at church today. Ivy brought beans and cornbread, and it rocked! (Sorry, got carried away again.!) Our worship was good today. Bishop/Abbot Jim preached on the love of Christ and laying our lives down--something we need to be reminded often that we need to do.
If you're in the OKC area, and are looking for convergence worship--evangelical, sacramental, Spirit-filled--we want to welcome you. Come as you are. Sunday at 10:30 am and Wednesday at 7:30 pm we have worship with Holy Eucharist (Communion). Sunday we eat lunch together after, and Wednesday we have a class after. We always have good coffee and tea (I call it the Communion Cafe). Monday through Friday we have Morning Prayer with Communion (a Deacon's Mass)--Mon and Tue it's at 6 am, Wed-Fri it's at 7 am. It is about 30 minutes, and we have coffee and tea.
Our church here doesn't have cultural barriers--we welcome everybody. Come as you are. Jeans, t-shirts and shorts are expected. Hair style doesn't matter. Neither do piercings or tatoos. Man looks at the outside--God looks at our hearts. This is a house church, and we're not here to show off our new suits--we can do that at work.
Join us Wednesday or tomorrow for Morning Prayer and Communion, if you're in the area.
I'm going to go back in and hang with my wife now. :)
br. francis
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Hello, it's me
Yes, I was thinking of the Todd Rundgren song. It's nice to have a couple of days off from work, much needed days, I'll say. I work full-time at a hotel as a bellman--at a monastery I would be the Porter. I also have a second, two-day-a-week part-time job, where Shirley works. I do eight hours a week there to supplement our income a bit.
At the hotel, we are currently short two bellmen--one is on "vacation" (I won't go there, I'll become aggravated) and when he returns next week, he'll be part-time. So my supervisor and I, with the help of a couple of others, have been filling the rest of the hours. It has been exhausting.
As a monk, I believe in the need to have a balanced life. Scripture teaches that. This includes work and time off work. We don't believe in the teaching of the world--work as much overtime as you can, and fill up the bank account--at the expense of our spiritual and married lives. That said, at times we may be called upon to do extra at work. Nothing wrong with that, as long as it has an end, we may soon find time off and for rest, and then return to a more normal, balanced schedule.
Each christian must judge this for him/her selves--I encourage you to ask God for His wisdom, and then receive from Him His leading.
So I am enjoying today and tomorrow. And I need it.
We had a great time Sunday celebrating the Feast of St. Clare (moved from the 11th, the day before). Her order and tradition is the contemplative side of Franciscanism. What a wonderful lady she was and is. Pray for us, Clare. I smoked burgers on the Smokey (I'm told they were very good--I thought so), and we had chips and drinks. This Sunday, Ivy is bringing beans and cornbread. Yes! Sorry, got a little carried away. Join us tomorrow night and Sunday if you're in the area.
I am watching the news in the Anglican world. A couple of things---remember that our God is with us and that He always has a remnant. Also, if you're with a good bishop--you're blessed, no matter which group or province he serves with. And if your bishop is revisionist or liberal--remember that the Scriptures say that our Lord Jesus Himself is the Bishop and Protector of our Souls. Those who have left the "mess" continue to pray for you who are still in it, and for faithful clergy around the world.
Our God is with us. Walk in His joy.
br. francis
Yes, I was thinking of the Todd Rundgren song. It's nice to have a couple of days off from work, much needed days, I'll say. I work full-time at a hotel as a bellman--at a monastery I would be the Porter. I also have a second, two-day-a-week part-time job, where Shirley works. I do eight hours a week there to supplement our income a bit.
At the hotel, we are currently short two bellmen--one is on "vacation" (I won't go there, I'll become aggravated) and when he returns next week, he'll be part-time. So my supervisor and I, with the help of a couple of others, have been filling the rest of the hours. It has been exhausting.
As a monk, I believe in the need to have a balanced life. Scripture teaches that. This includes work and time off work. We don't believe in the teaching of the world--work as much overtime as you can, and fill up the bank account--at the expense of our spiritual and married lives. That said, at times we may be called upon to do extra at work. Nothing wrong with that, as long as it has an end, we may soon find time off and for rest, and then return to a more normal, balanced schedule.
Each christian must judge this for him/her selves--I encourage you to ask God for His wisdom, and then receive from Him His leading.
So I am enjoying today and tomorrow. And I need it.
We had a great time Sunday celebrating the Feast of St. Clare (moved from the 11th, the day before). Her order and tradition is the contemplative side of Franciscanism. What a wonderful lady she was and is. Pray for us, Clare. I smoked burgers on the Smokey (I'm told they were very good--I thought so), and we had chips and drinks. This Sunday, Ivy is bringing beans and cornbread. Yes! Sorry, got a little carried away. Join us tomorrow night and Sunday if you're in the area.
I am watching the news in the Anglican world. A couple of things---remember that our God is with us and that He always has a remnant. Also, if you're with a good bishop--you're blessed, no matter which group or province he serves with. And if your bishop is revisionist or liberal--remember that the Scriptures say that our Lord Jesus Himself is the Bishop and Protector of our Souls. Those who have left the "mess" continue to pray for you who are still in it, and for faithful clergy around the world.
Our God is with us. Walk in His joy.
br. francis
Friday, August 03, 2007
Thoughts Friday
Lot of interesting things going on in the Church in the world right now. Especially in the part of the Church known as Anglican.
Thoughts on this. First thing, that I posted before, the Archbishop of York has it wrong--Anglicanism is the tradition ("flavor", I like to say) of the Church which came to us through Great Britain; it is not being in communion with Canterbury. So there are Anglican Christians who aren't in direct formal communion with Canterbury. Him saying that is almost as bad as Pope Benedict (who I like, by the way) saying we're not really the Church if we're not part of the Roman Catholic Church. Scripture and the Fathers tell us that's wrong.
Other thought: a lot of argument about liturgy. Liturgy that's based on the ancient, common liturgy of the Church that is orthodox is good. Period. Saying the 1928 or 1611 liturgies are the best or only is almost as bad as saying the King James is the only Bible.
Final: our worship as Anglicans or catholics must be Holy-Spirit inspired: liturgical AND Spirit-filled. We must not worship liturgy and ceremony, or "our way" of doing Church. We worship Almighty God, with reverence AND joy. Let us be open to the Spirit and have churches with LIFE.
Blessings.
br. francis
Lot of interesting things going on in the Church in the world right now. Especially in the part of the Church known as Anglican.
Thoughts on this. First thing, that I posted before, the Archbishop of York has it wrong--Anglicanism is the tradition ("flavor", I like to say) of the Church which came to us through Great Britain; it is not being in communion with Canterbury. So there are Anglican Christians who aren't in direct formal communion with Canterbury. Him saying that is almost as bad as Pope Benedict (who I like, by the way) saying we're not really the Church if we're not part of the Roman Catholic Church. Scripture and the Fathers tell us that's wrong.
Other thought: a lot of argument about liturgy. Liturgy that's based on the ancient, common liturgy of the Church that is orthodox is good. Period. Saying the 1928 or 1611 liturgies are the best or only is almost as bad as saying the King James is the only Bible.
Final: our worship as Anglicans or catholics must be Holy-Spirit inspired: liturgical AND Spirit-filled. We must not worship liturgy and ceremony, or "our way" of doing Church. We worship Almighty God, with reverence AND joy. Let us be open to the Spirit and have churches with LIFE.
Blessings.
br. francis
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