Reflections from the belly
In 1612, the English playwright John Webster wrote, “A parliament is like a common fountain, whence should flow pure silver drops in general. But if some cursed example poison it near the head, death and disease through the whole land spread.” (The Duchess of Malfi, Act 1, Scene 1, paraphrase). These lines draw, of course, from an image found in Revelation 22. Continue reading “Revelation | A vision for Parliament”
Imagine a church like the holy city: full of light, open to all peoples, rooted in the gospel, and overflowing with love. (Listen.)
A few years ago, I went to the Southwest Roadshow. There, LGBTIQA+ folk, allies and agencies listened to and learned from one another about the needs, resources and gaps in the region. I was there as an observer, at the invitation of friends. But to my surprise, one of those friends then introduced me to the gathering and told everyone about Sanctuary. Continue reading “Revelation | A vision for the church”
A bleak day, a cosmic conversation, a liturgical identity – and consolation. (Listen.)
I was feeling despondent so I went for a walk when I came across a flock of red-browed finches. They were darting back and forth across the path, cheeping merrily at each other. And they said to me, ‘Learn from us! Look how happy we are in our little flock, flitting between sun and shade.’ And I said, ‘But where is my little flock? I don’t know anymore. And I seem to be stuck in the shadows.’ Continue reading “Revelation | A liturgical reading (My little finches)”
“In the beginning was the Word …” It’s such a familiar phrase, many of us have stopped already paying attention. Yeah, yeah, yeah, we think, we know Jesus is the Word, let’s move on. But today I’d like to pause and focus on the word logos. Continue reading “John | Slow reading | In the beginning, the conversation”
Not your usual Mothers’ Day sermon. (My mother would be proud!) (Listen.)
My mother loved beautiful clothes. She wore designer silk dresses and an embroidered purple velvet kaftan; she tripped around in Spanish platform sandals. But perhaps her most precious garment was a simple blue bomber jacket, given to her by some Cambodian widows. Continue reading “Acts | On widows, women, and resurrection life”
Using physical objects such as candles to symbolize prayer is an ancient practice. At Sanctuary, we have a series of prayer stations which use all manner of things to embody our prayers. Candles, stones, gumnuts, dolls, maps … and whatever else we dream up! Continue reading “Prayer stations”
A guided meditation. (Listen.)
Tonight, we are not physically gathered in a room. We cannot pass the peace with hug or handshake; we cannot wash each other’s feet. But our imaginations are not confined. So tonight, allow me to lead you in a guided meditation, and just as our Lord reaches out to us, let us meet one another in the communion of the Holy Spirit. Continue reading “Guided meditation: Jesus washes his disciples’ feet”
Disciples praise his deeds of power and sing of peace; yet Jesus weeps. (Listen.)
Once upon a time, a baby was born. Angels announced it, and a heavenly host sang, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace to God’s people on earth!” (Luke 2:13). The little one grew in wisdom and stature, and soon enough taught the ways of peace: good news for the poor; release for the captives; recovery of sight for the blind; freedom for the oppressed; and cancellation of all debt (Luke 4:18). Continue reading “Luke | The things that make for peace”
True knowledge of God calls for a wholehearted response. (Listen.)
What would you spend a year’s wages on? A house deposit? A fancy car? A university education? How about some fabulously expensive perfume for a man about to die? In tonight’s story, that’s exactly what Mary does. Continue reading “John, Philippians | Knowing Christ”
The poet sings, “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” (Lamentations 3:22-23) – A piece written for Sanctuary for our Lent booklet in 2022, a collection of stories about real people whose lives displayed fruit of the spirit.
I remember my grandfather as a man of gentleness and grace. When I walked into a room, his eyes would light up. He showed his affection with a warm pat then a rub of the forearm, followed by a gentle squeeze; we still call it ‘The Snell Pat’. He always had projects on the go, and would potter around humming “psalms, hymns and spiritual songs” while he worked; every now and then, he’d break into full song. Continue reading “Saints | Reflection and reckoning”
Alison and the whale 