Today, my church, the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), has the opportunity to join in this response to the loving spirit that is touching hearts across our land. In San Antonio, Texas, the highest court in the 3-tiered judicial system of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) is hearing an appeal of a conviction against the Rev. Dr. Janie Spahr.
On what grounds do I stay to love and serve God in Christ in the PCUSA? I rest upon Paul’s appeal for unity in his letter to the Ephesians as a crucial pillar supporting my commitment to the Presbyterian Church.
Andy is the Executive Director of the UCC Coalition for LGBT Concerns. His background is in communications: reporter, press secretary, and most recently, communications ministry at the UCC office in Cleveland, Ohio. Andy is gay and single.
Recently I was asked a thought-provoking question, “How can someone who is set in their convictions build a bridge with those they disagree with?” This question is an important one to dwell on. As the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A) enters 2012, we watch as the threat of schism jeopardizes our unity as a community of faith, together, proclaiming the Gospel.
Bishop Talbert is a retired bishop of the United Methodist Church. He is a proud African- American who is a product of the civil rights and Black power movements, which means he is proud of how God created him to claim his heritage as a person of color.
Next week, the Fellowship of Presbyterians will once again gather – this time in Orlando, Florida. According to the Presbyterian Outlook, one big area of discussion will be two documents that were drafted since their last convening; one on theology and one on polity. I offer three thoughts to consider and invite further comments from all my theological friends.
The carol associated with Epiphany, “We Three Kings of Orient Are,” is probably my favorite song of the whole Christmas season. Since I was very young, I could feel the sway of the camels who carried the wise men day and night while they kept their eyes fixed on the star leading them ever onward to Jesus.
Earlier this month I wrote about looking back on 2011. Now I’d like to reflect on what I hope is ahead for the church in 2012. What do you see God having in store for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) this coming year?
One of the things I love best about Christmas is the singing of the beautiful hymns and carols through which we all proclaim the story of Emmanuel — God with us in the baby Jesus born in Bethlehem.
In the spirit of Advent, where the church year is made new again, I’d like to take some time to reflect on this past year in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). I’ll use this post to reflect back on what was, and another later in the month to look forward at what could be.
Partner Blog
@revjanetedwards on Twitter
- Amos 5:7 The prophet exclaims against those who turn justice to wormwood. Today, it's good to ask-when did we do this? http://t.co/P9mJbKNh 12 hours ago
- The 2012 Spahr decision is written in the Book of Life. While disappointing, the dissents are heartening: http://t.co/Yt2zbT2b 2012/02/21
- John 18:38 The perennial human question: What is truth? Jesus says He is. In what sense is Jesus the truth for you? http://t.co/d093ZM2m 2012/02/21
- Philippians 2:2 Paul's joy would be complete if believers are of one mind. Yet disagreement is rampant. How can we be varied and also one? 2012/02/20
- Luke 9:27 Some will not taste death before seeing the kingdom of God, says Jesus. What interpretation of this fits Christ best for you? 2012/02/19
- See more of Janet's favorite links.
