(EDIT: Originally, I planned on leaving TEC at the end of the year for the ACA. However, traveling that distance isn't going to work. I really have no idea what the future holds, but I'm remaining in TEC at least until the end of the year. I edited this post to reflect that change.)
After serious discernment, it is possible I will be leaving the Episcopal Church for another Christian church body. As of yet, I have no idea of where I might go or if I might try to stick it out in TEC after this year ends.
Here are some possibilities:
The ACA is a continuing Anglican Church and part of the Traditional Anglican Communion and tends to lean in an Anglo-Catholic direction. Going in this direction would not be without its challenges as this parish is about an 80 minute drive and I would be able to attend a max of two services a month. That said, the ACA matches my Anglican theological beliefs very well and it seems to be a stable body.
The Lutheran Church Missouri Synod (LCMS) is also an option. The option is local, the parish is awesome, and the worship is very liturgical.
Stick it out in TEC. This is what I'd like to do, but the actions of GC78 could make this very difficult.
Regardless of what happens, I will be mostly focusing on Anglicanism in general, as I don't want to be one of those bitter people (and I'm not bitter btw) who do nothing but write hit pieces on their former church.
As always, thanks for reading the blog and I hope, despite some changes, that you will stick around and continue to follow this blog. God Bless!!
Monday, April 6, 2015
Monday, March 16, 2015
Being Christian (Anglican) and Being Libertarian
This blog has kind of been neglected over the last several months. I just haven't had anything of much substance to talk about that hasn't already been beaten to death in other posts. Instead, let us get back to the original purpose of this blog. The purpose of this blog is to reflect on Christianity (Anglicanism in particular) and the experiences of being an Anglican Christian.
It is not my intention to make this a Christian political blog (there is certainly enough of them already). That said, it can be quite tough to be a libertarian and to be a Christian. In fact, it can be tough to be a Christian not be an ardent follower of the Democrat and Republican parties. The Christian Church is pretty sharply divided by secular politics today, a sad and inexcusable truth. What's even more interesting is that the extremes tend to run their respective denominations. In the mainline, you will find leadership that is almost exclusively in the progressive liberal Democrat political camp. In evangelical churches (and some Lutheran, etc.), you will find that most of the leadership that is almost exclusively in the extreme right-wing of the Republican Party. Sadly, it is my opinion that the leadership in both these camps take their politics far more seriously than their spiritual beliefs. Why do I say this? Well, you will find Christian leaders making excuses and issuing resolutions supporting the Iraq War when a Republican President takes us to war (looking at you Southern Baptist Convention). On the other side, you will find Christian leaders that were super vocal when a Republican administration goes to war and bombs countries, yet strangely quiet when a Democrat President does the same. Even more strange, you will hear of no resolutions from the mainline condemning Drone Strikes that have killed countless innocent children, yet you heard plenty about gun control after the school shootings (looking at you TEC and other mainline churches). Rather than stand up for the Gospel, which belongs to no 21st century political movement nor party, our Christian leaders are more intent on standing up for their political party and dancing around issues that contradict the Gospel. Ironically, these extreme elements have a lot in common, both spend all of their time being thankful they are not like "those Christians."
So, what do you do if you're a Christian and don't belong to the Democrat or Republican Party? What do you do if you're a Christian that doesn't subscribe to the extreme left or extreme right? Unfortunately, you are going to have a hard time finding a denomination to call home. Whether you are an independent, middle of the road, or especially when you are libertarian. You can find many blogs expressing such frustrations all throughout the world of blogging.
For those who are unfamiliar, libertarianism is essentially the belief that other people are not your property. Essentially, you have no right to force yourself or your beliefs onto others. If you have ever seen the flag with the tag-line "Don't Tread On Me," that pretty much sums up libertarianism. With the rising popularity and the rising tide of young libertarians, many have noticed that the established powers are starting to push back. It seems like every other article these days is a libertarian smear piece: "Libertarians Are Selfish," "Libertarians Are Racists," "Libertarianism is incompatible with Christianity," "Libertarians are Libertines," and on and on and on. In fact, a Roman Catholic Cardinal recently held a conference on libertarianism and its incompatibility with Catholicism. Ironic, considering some of the most famous modern libertarians are Roman Catholic (Lew Rockwell, Thomas Woods, Jeff Tucker). The head of the Southern Baptist Convention recently said that libertarianism is incompatible with Christianity. However, the war-mongering, murdering, drone-bombing, and civil rights/liberties violating Republican and Democrats are apparently perfectly in-line with Christianity! What is it about these libertarians that drives the status-quo crazy and drives Christian leaders on the right and left into a fit of rage? Well, libertarianism challenges current power structures and libertarianism doesn't require you to submit to a certain set of moral beliefs. Take gay marriage, for example. Libertarians can be both for and against gay marriage, so long as neither side uses force to force their beliefs onto someone else. Consenting adults have the right to marry and I have the right to agree or disagree with it. The fact that one doesn't have to be forced into the "correct" belief makes progressive and conservative heads explode.
So far, this post might be sounding like an apologist piece for libertarianism above all else, however, that isn't true. Libertarians just don't like being treated like they can't be Christians or they can't be concerned with the plight of the poor. The purpose of this post is the show the utter hypocrisy of those who say these things, yet advocate and apologize for their own parties/political beliefs above all else, including the Gospel. If the the church leaders want a one word explanation for why less people go to church these days it would be hypocrisy and all sides are guilty of it.
Lastly, it's important to understand that there are two types of Christian libertarians. There are those who believe that the Gospel advocates not specific political philosophy/movement and there are those who believe that the Gospel has a strong libertarian message. One of the chiefs arguments for this second group is that Jesus NEVER used force when advocating his beliefs. Considering that progressive and conservative Christians relish in the use of force, this second group of libertarians may be onto something. I have been called a child murderer by some of my fellow "open-minded" and "diversity loving" Episcopalians for supporting the 2nd Amendment.
In conclusion, I hope this blog does a lot to open-minds. Your fellow libertarian parishioners are not the evil people many would have you believe. Whether or not you agree with or abhor libertarian principles, hopefully you can learn to respect them and treat them just as you would your fellow progressive and conservative Christian brethren. Furthermore, libertarian Christians are generally not looking for a church that rubber stamps their political beliefs, we are essentially just looking for a church that isn't bat shit crazy, for lack of a better explanation.
Part 2 Coming Soon
It is not my intention to make this a Christian political blog (there is certainly enough of them already). That said, it can be quite tough to be a libertarian and to be a Christian. In fact, it can be tough to be a Christian not be an ardent follower of the Democrat and Republican parties. The Christian Church is pretty sharply divided by secular politics today, a sad and inexcusable truth. What's even more interesting is that the extremes tend to run their respective denominations. In the mainline, you will find leadership that is almost exclusively in the progressive liberal Democrat political camp. In evangelical churches (and some Lutheran, etc.), you will find that most of the leadership that is almost exclusively in the extreme right-wing of the Republican Party. Sadly, it is my opinion that the leadership in both these camps take their politics far more seriously than their spiritual beliefs. Why do I say this? Well, you will find Christian leaders making excuses and issuing resolutions supporting the Iraq War when a Republican President takes us to war (looking at you Southern Baptist Convention). On the other side, you will find Christian leaders that were super vocal when a Republican administration goes to war and bombs countries, yet strangely quiet when a Democrat President does the same. Even more strange, you will hear of no resolutions from the mainline condemning Drone Strikes that have killed countless innocent children, yet you heard plenty about gun control after the school shootings (looking at you TEC and other mainline churches). Rather than stand up for the Gospel, which belongs to no 21st century political movement nor party, our Christian leaders are more intent on standing up for their political party and dancing around issues that contradict the Gospel. Ironically, these extreme elements have a lot in common, both spend all of their time being thankful they are not like "those Christians."
So, what do you do if you're a Christian and don't belong to the Democrat or Republican Party? What do you do if you're a Christian that doesn't subscribe to the extreme left or extreme right? Unfortunately, you are going to have a hard time finding a denomination to call home. Whether you are an independent, middle of the road, or especially when you are libertarian. You can find many blogs expressing such frustrations all throughout the world of blogging.
For those who are unfamiliar, libertarianism is essentially the belief that other people are not your property. Essentially, you have no right to force yourself or your beliefs onto others. If you have ever seen the flag with the tag-line "Don't Tread On Me," that pretty much sums up libertarianism. With the rising popularity and the rising tide of young libertarians, many have noticed that the established powers are starting to push back. It seems like every other article these days is a libertarian smear piece: "Libertarians Are Selfish," "Libertarians Are Racists," "Libertarianism is incompatible with Christianity," "Libertarians are Libertines," and on and on and on. In fact, a Roman Catholic Cardinal recently held a conference on libertarianism and its incompatibility with Catholicism. Ironic, considering some of the most famous modern libertarians are Roman Catholic (Lew Rockwell, Thomas Woods, Jeff Tucker). The head of the Southern Baptist Convention recently said that libertarianism is incompatible with Christianity. However, the war-mongering, murdering, drone-bombing, and civil rights/liberties violating Republican and Democrats are apparently perfectly in-line with Christianity! What is it about these libertarians that drives the status-quo crazy and drives Christian leaders on the right and left into a fit of rage? Well, libertarianism challenges current power structures and libertarianism doesn't require you to submit to a certain set of moral beliefs. Take gay marriage, for example. Libertarians can be both for and against gay marriage, so long as neither side uses force to force their beliefs onto someone else. Consenting adults have the right to marry and I have the right to agree or disagree with it. The fact that one doesn't have to be forced into the "correct" belief makes progressive and conservative heads explode.
So far, this post might be sounding like an apologist piece for libertarianism above all else, however, that isn't true. Libertarians just don't like being treated like they can't be Christians or they can't be concerned with the plight of the poor. The purpose of this post is the show the utter hypocrisy of those who say these things, yet advocate and apologize for their own parties/political beliefs above all else, including the Gospel. If the the church leaders want a one word explanation for why less people go to church these days it would be hypocrisy and all sides are guilty of it.
Lastly, it's important to understand that there are two types of Christian libertarians. There are those who believe that the Gospel advocates not specific political philosophy/movement and there are those who believe that the Gospel has a strong libertarian message. One of the chiefs arguments for this second group is that Jesus NEVER used force when advocating his beliefs. Considering that progressive and conservative Christians relish in the use of force, this second group of libertarians may be onto something. I have been called a child murderer by some of my fellow "open-minded" and "diversity loving" Episcopalians for supporting the 2nd Amendment.
In conclusion, I hope this blog does a lot to open-minds. Your fellow libertarian parishioners are not the evil people many would have you believe. Whether or not you agree with or abhor libertarian principles, hopefully you can learn to respect them and treat them just as you would your fellow progressive and conservative Christian brethren. Furthermore, libertarian Christians are generally not looking for a church that rubber stamps their political beliefs, we are essentially just looking for a church that isn't bat shit crazy, for lack of a better explanation.
Part 2 Coming Soon
Monday, August 18, 2014
The Feast Day of St. Mary the Virgin and Anglo-Catholic Worship
I had the pleasure of being able to attend an Anglo-Catholic Episcopal parish this past Sunday, while visiting family. This was significant because the service was a celebration of the feast day of the Blessed Virgin Mary. I should note that my parish certainly leans in a "high-church" direction and some certainly lean in a Catholic direction (including myself), however, it was the first opportunity I've had to attend a self-identifying Anglo-Catholic parish that was celebrating the feast day of the BVM.
This opportunity was also significant because my mother, who was raised and who raised us Jehovah's Witness, was able to attend this service with my family. My mother, who is disfellowshipped and shunned by some of her family, has converted to Christianity and is currently looking for a place to attend and a Church to call home. I was really praying that she enjoyed the service and would contemplate the Anglican tradition and trinitarian baptism.
The service was incredible. This down-town parish was built in 1858 and has been an Anglo-Catholic beacon in this region and has been serving the poor in the down-town area since its inception. The solemn procession was filled with the smells of incense. The statue of the Blessed Virgin was blessed and collects to the BV filled the church. Hymns, sung by an amazing choir, proclaimed the honor and dignity that is due to St. Mary. All-in-all, it was an experience that made use of all the human senses in proclaiming Christ as Lord and Mary the Mother of our Lord. The priest asked us in his sermon to focus on the faith that the BV had in God and to focus on the importance of Mary and her place as Mother to the Lord. This was followed by a powerful Eucharist, that was chanted and sung.
After the service and during the car ride, I asked my mother what she thought. She said she had never seen anything more meaningful and more beautiful in her life. She already plans on taking classes on the Anglican tradition and plans on speaking with the Rector about being baptized! Thanks be to God!!
This opportunity was also significant because my mother, who was raised and who raised us Jehovah's Witness, was able to attend this service with my family. My mother, who is disfellowshipped and shunned by some of her family, has converted to Christianity and is currently looking for a place to attend and a Church to call home. I was really praying that she enjoyed the service and would contemplate the Anglican tradition and trinitarian baptism.
The service was incredible. This down-town parish was built in 1858 and has been an Anglo-Catholic beacon in this region and has been serving the poor in the down-town area since its inception. The solemn procession was filled with the smells of incense. The statue of the Blessed Virgin was blessed and collects to the BV filled the church. Hymns, sung by an amazing choir, proclaimed the honor and dignity that is due to St. Mary. All-in-all, it was an experience that made use of all the human senses in proclaiming Christ as Lord and Mary the Mother of our Lord. The priest asked us in his sermon to focus on the faith that the BV had in God and to focus on the importance of Mary and her place as Mother to the Lord. This was followed by a powerful Eucharist, that was chanted and sung.
After the service and during the car ride, I asked my mother what she thought. She said she had never seen anything more meaningful and more beautiful in her life. She already plans on taking classes on the Anglican tradition and plans on speaking with the Rector about being baptized! Thanks be to God!!
Tuesday, June 3, 2014
Concerns:Trying to be Anglican in the Episcopal Church
I want to thank everybody who has read and commented on this blog. I could have never imagined that this blog would be closing in on 4,000 views, incredible! I am humbled and thankful for all that have read and shared my blog with others. This blog started out as a project to talk about all things Anglican (and some things Jehovah's Witness) from the prospective of a lay Episcopalian and I have really enjoyed the comments, friends, and conversations that have come about because of this blog.
Truth be told, I'm have some concerns I'd like to share. These last few months, I've been in contact with several friends who finally given up on and left TEC. Most of these friends have gone the Roman route, while another has decided to give Lutheranism a shot (Missouri Synod). The truth is, many of us have very deep reservations when it comes to the direction of TEC and its leaders. Anglicanism is in our heart and soul, however, if something is no longer recognizable as being Anglican and being an Anglican makes you an outsider, then what is to be gained by staying? These are questions that I sometimes ask myself. I belong to a wonderful, welcoming, yet very traditionalist parish. I have no qualms with my parish nor with my bishop.
That being the case, I do have some pretty major qualms with many other bishops and those who serve at the national church level. One of my biggest concerns is the possible passage of Communion Without Baptism at the 2015 General Convention. The Episcopal Church spent the 70s convincing people that baptism is where one enters the Christian Church and is when one can partake in the Eucharist. What does it say about our catholicity if one doesn't even have to be a Christian to share in the Eucharist feast, let along believe in the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist? St. Paul warns us that such an open-table Eucharist policy is dangerous, not for the Church, but for the person who is not yet ready to receive. Baptism before Communion has been the norm for two-thousand years and we might throw this tradition out the window just so some imaginary person may feel more welcome. Not only will a number of Episcopalians leave if this happens, nobody else will join the church because we have lifted the "restriction" of being baptized before taking Communion. People who are interested in joining the church become baptized after all!
My next major qualm with TEC leadership is that there is no accountability when it comes to heretical priests and bishops. I know that "heretic" is a dirty word amongst us Anglicans, however, we have to have some accountability for those who abandon the faith and practices or this church, otherwise we just as well be Unitarian. TEC has spent some 22-24 million dollars litigating those who left TEC and took the church property with them. In some cases, priests and bishops have been pressured or removed or even charged with abandoning the Episcopal Church simply because they are not progressive enough on some issues. Yet, the dean of Washington National Cathedral describes himself as being a "non-theistic" Christian (an atheist Christian), who does not believe in marriage or in God (read here). Not only has this man not been charged with abandoning the faith of this church, he has been promoted to one of the most prestigious Cathedrals in all of America! Thus, some priests are not allowed to have differing views over homosexuality, yet some priests can openly deny belief in God and nothing happens (except that they get promoted!). Sadly, we can do this all day long when it comes to those in leadership positions in the Episcopal Church. The horror stories are all out there for those to read. There are parishes that have Hindu and Buddhist worship hours and there are those parishes that have allowed pagan festival to be conducted in the parishes. We have Bob Dylan Masses, gay disco Masses, and plain disco Masses (gay disco mass). If I were a gay member of this church I would be incredibly offended of such actions and many are. We have the dean of a divinity school call abortion a sacrament and get rewarded for her "prophetic witness." (read in horror) There are those who refuse to refer to God as the Trinity in the liturgy and instead uses deist language like "great being" or "creator." Heck, it is even a mystery whether or not the Presiding Bishop herself even believes in the divinity of Christ! (read here) I'd like to think that this stuff is rare and blown out of proportion, but it is more common than many of us would like to admit I'm afraid.
My next major complaint is that if one is not a staunch supporter of 21st century progressive liberal politics, then they are made to feel like they don't care about social justice. Truth is, I'm not a progressive or a conservative. However, all of the national leadership's solutions when it comes to social justice issues is basically the platform of the progressive liberal wing of the Democratic Party. It is pathetic just how partisan they are and how the only solutions they are interested in are progressive solutions. I would like to inform the progressive liberal social justice "gurus" that progressive liberalism didn't exist in the days Christ walked this earth and that there is nothing in the bible that affirms or doesn't affirm progressivism or any other political "ism." If you don't support gun control, high taxes, government expansion, and assaults on civil liberties, then you are going to feel like an alien in this church at times. Why do we need to constantly take these church dividing stands that are likely to do absolutely nothing in the grand scheme of things. I just don't think the average politician cares about the political beliefs of a denomination that has an average Sunday attendance that is less than the population of moderately sized U.S. cities.
Sadly, I sometimes feel embarrassed to tell people I'm Episcopalian. I've had people very seriously ask me if Episcopalians were still considered Christians or if they considered themselves to be Christian! These people are not asking this because they think we are Roman Catholics, but because of all the nonsense that they hear about going on in the Episcopal Church. The sad thing is, those who truly adhere to the Creeds, tradition, the Bible, and the BCP are bound to feel uncomfortable and like they don't belong even though they are devoutly Anglican! The Episcopal Church is not the Unitarian church or the universalist church, it is an Anglican Church! Denying the Trinity is not Anglican. Denying the Creeds is not Anglican. Gay disco Masses are offensive and are not Anglican. Calling abortion a "sacrament" is offensive and not Anglican (I feel that it's satanic). Holding traditionalist clergy to differing standards than "progressive" clergy is not Anglican. Christians suing each other for property is not Anglican. Communion without baptism is not Anglican....and the list goes on.
Is all hope lost? I don't think so. The influence of such theologians as Marcus Borg, Dominic Crossan, and, especially, John Spong has been wavering considerably (and never really caught on with the laity to begin with). The youth that are coming out of seminary have a strong interest in traditionalism and Anglicanism. The question remains, will these new seminarians be too little too late? That is the million dollar question.
In conclusion, I currently have no plans to leave TEC. That said, it is something that is constantly on my mind. How much longer will this Anglican be allowed to be Anglican in an Anglican Church? Sounds silly, but it is a legitimate concern. If Communion without baptism passes, are we still Anglican? The truth is, I believe in Anglican Christianity and I believe that a church can be inclusive without selling the whole of Christianity down the river, while avoiding church dividing secular political issues. I recently saw a poster on another site say that when he decided to leave TEC, his Episcopalian friends told him you are just looking for a "perfect church" and a perfect church does not exist. The poster agreed with this sentiment, however, he asked that he only wanted to find a parish that was still Christian and not a steaming pile. Sadly, he couldn't find a parish that was Anglican in any sense of the word. How common is this? We are heading in a direction where the Episcopal Church is inclusive of all things, except Anglicanism.
Thoughts?
Truth be told, I'm have some concerns I'd like to share. These last few months, I've been in contact with several friends who finally given up on and left TEC. Most of these friends have gone the Roman route, while another has decided to give Lutheranism a shot (Missouri Synod). The truth is, many of us have very deep reservations when it comes to the direction of TEC and its leaders. Anglicanism is in our heart and soul, however, if something is no longer recognizable as being Anglican and being an Anglican makes you an outsider, then what is to be gained by staying? These are questions that I sometimes ask myself. I belong to a wonderful, welcoming, yet very traditionalist parish. I have no qualms with my parish nor with my bishop.
That being the case, I do have some pretty major qualms with many other bishops and those who serve at the national church level. One of my biggest concerns is the possible passage of Communion Without Baptism at the 2015 General Convention. The Episcopal Church spent the 70s convincing people that baptism is where one enters the Christian Church and is when one can partake in the Eucharist. What does it say about our catholicity if one doesn't even have to be a Christian to share in the Eucharist feast, let along believe in the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist? St. Paul warns us that such an open-table Eucharist policy is dangerous, not for the Church, but for the person who is not yet ready to receive. Baptism before Communion has been the norm for two-thousand years and we might throw this tradition out the window just so some imaginary person may feel more welcome. Not only will a number of Episcopalians leave if this happens, nobody else will join the church because we have lifted the "restriction" of being baptized before taking Communion. People who are interested in joining the church become baptized after all!
My next major qualm with TEC leadership is that there is no accountability when it comes to heretical priests and bishops. I know that "heretic" is a dirty word amongst us Anglicans, however, we have to have some accountability for those who abandon the faith and practices or this church, otherwise we just as well be Unitarian. TEC has spent some 22-24 million dollars litigating those who left TEC and took the church property with them. In some cases, priests and bishops have been pressured or removed or even charged with abandoning the Episcopal Church simply because they are not progressive enough on some issues. Yet, the dean of Washington National Cathedral describes himself as being a "non-theistic" Christian (an atheist Christian), who does not believe in marriage or in God (read here). Not only has this man not been charged with abandoning the faith of this church, he has been promoted to one of the most prestigious Cathedrals in all of America! Thus, some priests are not allowed to have differing views over homosexuality, yet some priests can openly deny belief in God and nothing happens (except that they get promoted!). Sadly, we can do this all day long when it comes to those in leadership positions in the Episcopal Church. The horror stories are all out there for those to read. There are parishes that have Hindu and Buddhist worship hours and there are those parishes that have allowed pagan festival to be conducted in the parishes. We have Bob Dylan Masses, gay disco Masses, and plain disco Masses (gay disco mass). If I were a gay member of this church I would be incredibly offended of such actions and many are. We have the dean of a divinity school call abortion a sacrament and get rewarded for her "prophetic witness." (read in horror) There are those who refuse to refer to God as the Trinity in the liturgy and instead uses deist language like "great being" or "creator." Heck, it is even a mystery whether or not the Presiding Bishop herself even believes in the divinity of Christ! (read here) I'd like to think that this stuff is rare and blown out of proportion, but it is more common than many of us would like to admit I'm afraid.
My next major complaint is that if one is not a staunch supporter of 21st century progressive liberal politics, then they are made to feel like they don't care about social justice. Truth is, I'm not a progressive or a conservative. However, all of the national leadership's solutions when it comes to social justice issues is basically the platform of the progressive liberal wing of the Democratic Party. It is pathetic just how partisan they are and how the only solutions they are interested in are progressive solutions. I would like to inform the progressive liberal social justice "gurus" that progressive liberalism didn't exist in the days Christ walked this earth and that there is nothing in the bible that affirms or doesn't affirm progressivism or any other political "ism." If you don't support gun control, high taxes, government expansion, and assaults on civil liberties, then you are going to feel like an alien in this church at times. Why do we need to constantly take these church dividing stands that are likely to do absolutely nothing in the grand scheme of things. I just don't think the average politician cares about the political beliefs of a denomination that has an average Sunday attendance that is less than the population of moderately sized U.S. cities.
Sadly, I sometimes feel embarrassed to tell people I'm Episcopalian. I've had people very seriously ask me if Episcopalians were still considered Christians or if they considered themselves to be Christian! These people are not asking this because they think we are Roman Catholics, but because of all the nonsense that they hear about going on in the Episcopal Church. The sad thing is, those who truly adhere to the Creeds, tradition, the Bible, and the BCP are bound to feel uncomfortable and like they don't belong even though they are devoutly Anglican! The Episcopal Church is not the Unitarian church or the universalist church, it is an Anglican Church! Denying the Trinity is not Anglican. Denying the Creeds is not Anglican. Gay disco Masses are offensive and are not Anglican. Calling abortion a "sacrament" is offensive and not Anglican (I feel that it's satanic). Holding traditionalist clergy to differing standards than "progressive" clergy is not Anglican. Christians suing each other for property is not Anglican. Communion without baptism is not Anglican....and the list goes on.
Is all hope lost? I don't think so. The influence of such theologians as Marcus Borg, Dominic Crossan, and, especially, John Spong has been wavering considerably (and never really caught on with the laity to begin with). The youth that are coming out of seminary have a strong interest in traditionalism and Anglicanism. The question remains, will these new seminarians be too little too late? That is the million dollar question.
In conclusion, I currently have no plans to leave TEC. That said, it is something that is constantly on my mind. How much longer will this Anglican be allowed to be Anglican in an Anglican Church? Sounds silly, but it is a legitimate concern. If Communion without baptism passes, are we still Anglican? The truth is, I believe in Anglican Christianity and I believe that a church can be inclusive without selling the whole of Christianity down the river, while avoiding church dividing secular political issues. I recently saw a poster on another site say that when he decided to leave TEC, his Episcopalian friends told him you are just looking for a "perfect church" and a perfect church does not exist. The poster agreed with this sentiment, however, he asked that he only wanted to find a parish that was still Christian and not a steaming pile. Sadly, he couldn't find a parish that was Anglican in any sense of the word. How common is this? We are heading in a direction where the Episcopal Church is inclusive of all things, except Anglicanism.
Thoughts?
Friday, May 23, 2014
Political Correctness VS. Theological Reflection
This post is inspired by a fantastic blog post I read on the blog catholicity and covenant. The title is called "The Anglicans George Weigel doesn't know."
In it, the blog poster responds to sharp attacks on Anglicanism, by Roman Catholic commentator George Weigel, regarding the selling out of Christian orthodoxy to political correctness and whatever society decides is good.
George Weigel says that women's ordination and same-sex blessings are sell outs to modern society that started with the supposed acceptance of contraception in the 1930s.
Here is what the poster says in response to contraception:
"As for the two issues raised by Weigel - contraception and women priests - Anglicanism's developing doctrine on these two issues may be presented in terms of conformity to modernity, but they need not be. The 1930 Lambeth resolution on contraception was no acceptance of an understanding of sexuality defined by a contraception mentality:
The Conference records its strong condemnation of the use of any methods of conception control from motives of selfishness, luxury, or mere convenience."
This certainly doesn't sound like approval and the Episcopal Church leaves these issues to the believer's conscience. Perhaps Weigel would be better served by worrying about the 98% of Roman Catholic women who have used contraceptives?
Moving on to women's ordination, the poster says:
"Regarding the ordination of women as priests, in 2009 +Rowan reminded us that the Anglican decision to ordain women to the ministerial priesthood, while it can be dismissed as conforming to modernity, is rooted in explicitly theological reflection:
"The claim of certain Anglican provinces is that the ordination of women explicitly looks to an agreed historic theology of ordained ministry as set out in the ARCIC report and other sources ... But for many Anglicans, not ordaining women has a possible unwelcome implication about the difference between baptised men and baptised women, which in their view threatens to undermine the coherence of the ecclesiology in question."
In some cases, are such arguments framed in political correctness terms? Of course, but for the those who are centered on the "Trinity" and a "Christological center", the arguments are rooted in theological reflection, not conforming to society.
The blogger finishes up by saying:
"The same can be said for the on-going debate surrounding human sexuality. Thus, for example, +Rowan's 'The Body's Grace' and Sam Wells' more recent 'Wholly Holy', quite clearly do not argue for a conformity to modernity but, rather, seek to reflect on the phenomenon of committed same-sex relationships in light of the Trinitarian and Christological centre.
It's difficult not to come to the conclusion that Weigel doesn't really know and doesn't 'get' Anglicanism. Admittedly his experience may be defined by encounters with those in TEC still shaped and defined by the liberal protestant agenda of the 60s and 70s. Many of us, however, who are catholic, evangelical, charismatic or liberal Anglicans simply will not recognise ourselves in Weigel's descriptions."
Arguments can be made supporting same-sex blessings by deeply rooted theological arguments. The blogger points out that the liberal protestant agenda of the 60s is largely gone from the episcopacy of the Church of England. Theological arguments regarding these issues can be made, but they must be rooted in a Christological and Trinitarian understanding and the not the political/theological understandings of 1960s liberal protestantism, which has little use for deep theological reflection. Parishes that are conservative, evangelical, catholic, liberal, and Charismatic that have this focus on the Trinity and a Christological center will not match the descriptions of Anglicanism given by George Weigel. That is the claim of the blogger and I am inclined to agree.
As far as TEC goes, where is the Trinitarian focus and the Christological center when presenting arguments for same-sex blessings? Can we claim, like the Church of England, that our episcopacy has largely moved on from the liberal protestantism of the 60s? Unfortunately, I don't think so and that gives guys like Weigel all the ammunition they need to fire away at TEC. When are we going to get serious about rooting our arguments in deep theological reflection and not in the political agenda of the 60s? If we want people to bother with church on Sunday, then we need to be able to feed them good theology, theology that is rooted in the Trinity, that is rooted in the physical Resurrection, that is rooted in a Christological center. Are Episcopalian leaders going to continue to throw the baby out with the water and sell Christian orthodoxy down the river or are they going to finally get serious about rooting their arguments in theological reflection and a Trinitarian understanding? Doing theology the "Spong" way is an embarrasement to those who take Anglicanism seriously.
Thoughts?
In it, the blog poster responds to sharp attacks on Anglicanism, by Roman Catholic commentator George Weigel, regarding the selling out of Christian orthodoxy to political correctness and whatever society decides is good.
George Weigel says that women's ordination and same-sex blessings are sell outs to modern society that started with the supposed acceptance of contraception in the 1930s.
Here is what the poster says in response to contraception:
"As for the two issues raised by Weigel - contraception and women priests - Anglicanism's developing doctrine on these two issues may be presented in terms of conformity to modernity, but they need not be. The 1930 Lambeth resolution on contraception was no acceptance of an understanding of sexuality defined by a contraception mentality:
The Conference records its strong condemnation of the use of any methods of conception control from motives of selfishness, luxury, or mere convenience."
This certainly doesn't sound like approval and the Episcopal Church leaves these issues to the believer's conscience. Perhaps Weigel would be better served by worrying about the 98% of Roman Catholic women who have used contraceptives?
Moving on to women's ordination, the poster says:
"Regarding the ordination of women as priests, in 2009 +Rowan reminded us that the Anglican decision to ordain women to the ministerial priesthood, while it can be dismissed as conforming to modernity, is rooted in explicitly theological reflection:
"The claim of certain Anglican provinces is that the ordination of women explicitly looks to an agreed historic theology of ordained ministry as set out in the ARCIC report and other sources ... But for many Anglicans, not ordaining women has a possible unwelcome implication about the difference between baptised men and baptised women, which in their view threatens to undermine the coherence of the ecclesiology in question."
In some cases, are such arguments framed in political correctness terms? Of course, but for the those who are centered on the "Trinity" and a "Christological center", the arguments are rooted in theological reflection, not conforming to society.
The blogger finishes up by saying:
"The same can be said for the on-going debate surrounding human sexuality. Thus, for example, +Rowan's 'The Body's Grace' and Sam Wells' more recent 'Wholly Holy', quite clearly do not argue for a conformity to modernity but, rather, seek to reflect on the phenomenon of committed same-sex relationships in light of the Trinitarian and Christological centre.
It's difficult not to come to the conclusion that Weigel doesn't really know and doesn't 'get' Anglicanism. Admittedly his experience may be defined by encounters with those in TEC still shaped and defined by the liberal protestant agenda of the 60s and 70s. Many of us, however, who are catholic, evangelical, charismatic or liberal Anglicans simply will not recognise ourselves in Weigel's descriptions."
Arguments can be made supporting same-sex blessings by deeply rooted theological arguments. The blogger points out that the liberal protestant agenda of the 60s is largely gone from the episcopacy of the Church of England. Theological arguments regarding these issues can be made, but they must be rooted in a Christological and Trinitarian understanding and the not the political/theological understandings of 1960s liberal protestantism, which has little use for deep theological reflection. Parishes that are conservative, evangelical, catholic, liberal, and Charismatic that have this focus on the Trinity and a Christological center will not match the descriptions of Anglicanism given by George Weigel. That is the claim of the blogger and I am inclined to agree.
As far as TEC goes, where is the Trinitarian focus and the Christological center when presenting arguments for same-sex blessings? Can we claim, like the Church of England, that our episcopacy has largely moved on from the liberal protestantism of the 60s? Unfortunately, I don't think so and that gives guys like Weigel all the ammunition they need to fire away at TEC. When are we going to get serious about rooting our arguments in deep theological reflection and not in the political agenda of the 60s? If we want people to bother with church on Sunday, then we need to be able to feed them good theology, theology that is rooted in the Trinity, that is rooted in the physical Resurrection, that is rooted in a Christological center. Are Episcopalian leaders going to continue to throw the baby out with the water and sell Christian orthodoxy down the river or are they going to finally get serious about rooting their arguments in theological reflection and a Trinitarian understanding? Doing theology the "Spong" way is an embarrasement to those who take Anglicanism seriously.
Thoughts?
Monday, May 12, 2014
Why Secular Society Doesn't Care About the Church and the Effects of Negative Crossover
As the Episcopal Church continues its attendance, baptism, confirmation, wedding, and membership free fall, many in TEC are scratching their heads and wondering why? First of all, it is true that there are a whole host of factors that have an impact on church membership and attendance. In some cases, it is a matter of a larger number of older members dying, while the birth rate in the church declines. It is true that most denominations are experiencing decline, however, most are not in the same membership free fall as TEC. Why the free fall and why has society not given us a look?
So, what does church attendance/membership and secular society have in common with each other and how does this relate to negative crossover? Well, TEC has prided itself on becoming more "inclusive" and more open, welcoming all to attend and give our church a shot. However, the execution of this "inclusiveness" has left a lot to be desired. First of all, watering down theology and watering down the transforming power of the Gospel is not bringing in anybody new. Why would anybody who normally doesn't care about church all of the sudden get excited about a message that has been watered down to the point that there is no message? They wouldn't, that is why they stay home on Sunday and watch football. Furthermore, some vague "Oprahfied" spirituality message with a very small amount of Jesus just isn't appealing. The truth is, secular society doesn't want to attend a church that looks no different than secular society. I don't know why that is so hard for the national leadership to fathom. While the leaders of the church are patting themselves on the back about how much they look like society, desperately trying to get societies rubber stamp, faithful Anglicans are leaving in droves. Jesus says that many in society won't like the message, he didn't say to "fashion thy message on the values of society and form your message on the popular whims of society and hope to gain their approval."
Moving on, how does this relate to negative crossover? Negative crossover is when a change alienates those faithful before the change, while not attracting anybody new. This new watered-down theology has alienated those who are faithful to the church and faithful to the power and transforming nature of the Gospel message. Truth is, Anglicans can go to the Orthodox Church, Roman Catholic Church, Lutheran Church Missouri Synod, or a variety of other churches and get the "meat and potatoes" of the Gospel, without it being watered down to the point of being nothing. On top of that, secular society doesn't care about this new watered-down Gospel and there is no mad rush to get to their local Episcopal parish to hear that it doesn't matter what you think or believe.
For a prime example of negative crossover, take a look at the idea of Communion without baptism. Many of those who support the measure say that we must be more "inclusive" and that it may make some feel "unwelcome" if they are unable to receive Communion since they are not baptized. Without getting into many of arguments of why this may be one of the dumbest ideas ever, let's look at what this says about the Episcopal Church. First of all, it says that our Communion means almost nothing and that it is more of a power meal if anything. Secondly, it says that baptism, membership in Christ's church, means almost nothing. Third, it says that so-called "feelings" and "experience" trump Tradition, Scripture, and Reason! I've spoken to a TON of Episcopalians who have said they are gone if this church changes the cannons to allow Communion without baptism. They contend that Sacramental theology would be diluted to the point of being almost useless and it would represent a clear departure from apostolic Christianity and they are absolutely right to think that way. Moving on, who is going to start coming to TEC because they can now have Communion without being baptized? Are our leaders really naive enough to think that there is going to be a mad rush to get to the local TEC parish after this change? No, nobody will care. Waiting to be baptized before Communion actually encourages a person to become a baptized Christian in the first place!! Thus, with one swift move, you alienate a large number of Episcopalians, while not bringing any new people to church. Mind boggling isn't it?
In the end, what brings people to church? It's really simple actually and it can be found in the bible, preaching the transforming power of the Gospel and Jesus Christ, while proclaiming Christ is risen! Christ is risen indeed! Jesus tells us to go and proclaim the Gospel to all nations and baptize them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. If we as a church start to believe that Christ is risen and proclaim the Gospel, then others will start to believe it too. If we do that, then maybe we get God's seal of approval, rather than societies. Thoughts?
So, what does church attendance/membership and secular society have in common with each other and how does this relate to negative crossover? Well, TEC has prided itself on becoming more "inclusive" and more open, welcoming all to attend and give our church a shot. However, the execution of this "inclusiveness" has left a lot to be desired. First of all, watering down theology and watering down the transforming power of the Gospel is not bringing in anybody new. Why would anybody who normally doesn't care about church all of the sudden get excited about a message that has been watered down to the point that there is no message? They wouldn't, that is why they stay home on Sunday and watch football. Furthermore, some vague "Oprahfied" spirituality message with a very small amount of Jesus just isn't appealing. The truth is, secular society doesn't want to attend a church that looks no different than secular society. I don't know why that is so hard for the national leadership to fathom. While the leaders of the church are patting themselves on the back about how much they look like society, desperately trying to get societies rubber stamp, faithful Anglicans are leaving in droves. Jesus says that many in society won't like the message, he didn't say to "fashion thy message on the values of society and form your message on the popular whims of society and hope to gain their approval."
Moving on, how does this relate to negative crossover? Negative crossover is when a change alienates those faithful before the change, while not attracting anybody new. This new watered-down theology has alienated those who are faithful to the church and faithful to the power and transforming nature of the Gospel message. Truth is, Anglicans can go to the Orthodox Church, Roman Catholic Church, Lutheran Church Missouri Synod, or a variety of other churches and get the "meat and potatoes" of the Gospel, without it being watered down to the point of being nothing. On top of that, secular society doesn't care about this new watered-down Gospel and there is no mad rush to get to their local Episcopal parish to hear that it doesn't matter what you think or believe.
For a prime example of negative crossover, take a look at the idea of Communion without baptism. Many of those who support the measure say that we must be more "inclusive" and that it may make some feel "unwelcome" if they are unable to receive Communion since they are not baptized. Without getting into many of arguments of why this may be one of the dumbest ideas ever, let's look at what this says about the Episcopal Church. First of all, it says that our Communion means almost nothing and that it is more of a power meal if anything. Secondly, it says that baptism, membership in Christ's church, means almost nothing. Third, it says that so-called "feelings" and "experience" trump Tradition, Scripture, and Reason! I've spoken to a TON of Episcopalians who have said they are gone if this church changes the cannons to allow Communion without baptism. They contend that Sacramental theology would be diluted to the point of being almost useless and it would represent a clear departure from apostolic Christianity and they are absolutely right to think that way. Moving on, who is going to start coming to TEC because they can now have Communion without being baptized? Are our leaders really naive enough to think that there is going to be a mad rush to get to the local TEC parish after this change? No, nobody will care. Waiting to be baptized before Communion actually encourages a person to become a baptized Christian in the first place!! Thus, with one swift move, you alienate a large number of Episcopalians, while not bringing any new people to church. Mind boggling isn't it?
In the end, what brings people to church? It's really simple actually and it can be found in the bible, preaching the transforming power of the Gospel and Jesus Christ, while proclaiming Christ is risen! Christ is risen indeed! Jesus tells us to go and proclaim the Gospel to all nations and baptize them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. If we as a church start to believe that Christ is risen and proclaim the Gospel, then others will start to believe it too. If we do that, then maybe we get God's seal of approval, rather than societies. Thoughts?
Tuesday, March 18, 2014
What We Do When Extended Family Doesn't Care For Our Church?
I was inspired to write a post about this topic when I saw several threads on a Christian forum that detailed the experiences of a person whose extended family did not accept the Episcopal Church (mainly due to liturgy, sacraments, and a perceived liberalism at the national level). This isn't isolated to the Episcopal Church, as this topic/issue comes up over and over again and I'm sure many of us have experience in dealing with family who comes from a different faith background.
Unfortunately, I have first-hand experience with dealing with extended family who doesn't accept my faith. My mother's extended family are made up of mostly Jehovah's Witnesses (two aunts and uncles, a cousin, and a grandma). Jehovah's Witnesses believe that all other faiths are a part of "Christendom" and are of the devil. In many ways, Anglicanism and Jehovah's Witnesses couldn't be much further apart when it comes to theology and worship. Fortunately, I was never baptized in the Jehovah's Witness faith, therefore, my extended Jehovah's Witness family are actually allowed to talk to me. That being said, we never "argue" about religion or theology. The fact is, if a Christian is well formed in their faith and are able to make a reasonable defense of that faith, you will generally have the respect of your family, even if they do not agree.
Sadly, letting your family run roughshod over you and running your Church into the ground isn't going to help anything. You don't have to argue with your family, but you should make it abundantly clear that bashing your faith is hurtful and you should be able to explain why you believe the way you do. This why it is important to attend bible study and study materials on your own. One of the best New Testament bible study series out there is the "For Everyone" series by retired Anglican Bishop N.T. Wright. N.T. Wright's series is set up as being introductory and offers understandable answers. Also, if you are interested in study bibles, I'd highly recommend the Oxford Study Bible. (\For more info on the Episcopal Church, see this blog post New to the Episcopal Church
Remember, your family may never accept your faith, but if you are well formed, you may gain their respect.
So, what have your experiences been? Have you faced family who are unable to accept you faith?
Unfortunately, I have first-hand experience with dealing with extended family who doesn't accept my faith. My mother's extended family are made up of mostly Jehovah's Witnesses (two aunts and uncles, a cousin, and a grandma). Jehovah's Witnesses believe that all other faiths are a part of "Christendom" and are of the devil. In many ways, Anglicanism and Jehovah's Witnesses couldn't be much further apart when it comes to theology and worship. Fortunately, I was never baptized in the Jehovah's Witness faith, therefore, my extended Jehovah's Witness family are actually allowed to talk to me. That being said, we never "argue" about religion or theology. The fact is, if a Christian is well formed in their faith and are able to make a reasonable defense of that faith, you will generally have the respect of your family, even if they do not agree.
Sadly, letting your family run roughshod over you and running your Church into the ground isn't going to help anything. You don't have to argue with your family, but you should make it abundantly clear that bashing your faith is hurtful and you should be able to explain why you believe the way you do. This why it is important to attend bible study and study materials on your own. One of the best New Testament bible study series out there is the "For Everyone" series by retired Anglican Bishop N.T. Wright. N.T. Wright's series is set up as being introductory and offers understandable answers. Also, if you are interested in study bibles, I'd highly recommend the Oxford Study Bible. (\For more info on the Episcopal Church, see this blog post New to the Episcopal Church
Remember, your family may never accept your faith, but if you are well formed, you may gain their respect.
So, what have your experiences been? Have you faced family who are unable to accept you faith?
Friday, February 14, 2014
AAWA: Advocates for Awareness of Watchtower Abuses
I imagine that most of the readers of this blog are almost completely unaware of the doctrines and practices of the Watchtower Society (Jehovah's Witnesses). If any of the readers of this blog are interested in learning more, then they can visit some of my older blog posts that deal with the act of "shunning" disfellowshipped family/friends or they can read my post detailing my journey out of the Watchtower cult.
As much as I want to focus this blog on Anglicanism and the Episcopal Church, it would be a great disservice not to touch on the effects that a damaging cult can have on one's life and spirituality. If there is one good thing that came out of my experience in this cult, it is the fact that I can use my voice and knowledge to held inform Episcopalians and others of this dangerous cult and I can potentially reach those who are still trapped in the Watchtower Society.
Thankfully, there are many organizations out there that were created to fight the Watchtower Society and to offer support for those who left, some of which are shunned by their own family and their friends. Some former members have literally given up everything in the search of truth and to relieve their conscience.
There is a new organization bringing the fight against the Watchtower Society called the Advocates for Awareness of Watchtower Abuses or AAWA for short. The organization is the broadest of its kind, including contributions from atheists, agnostics, Christians, and other religious/non-religious people. Personally, I think that this is a brilliant tactic. I've always maintained that the best way to reach those trapped in the Jehovah's Witness cult is to show them the utter lies and hypocrisy of the Watchtower Society and its Governing Body of elders. Sadly, you can argue in circles with a Jehovah's Witness on theology all day long, but you cannot dispute facts.
On the website, one can find articles and videos dealing with the lies of the Watchtower Society and resources to use when talking to Jehovah's Witnesses. The group also looks to expose just how damaging, even life threatening, some of the policies of the organization are. The group is also concerned with educating non-Jehovah's Witnesses about these policies.
I strongly encourage those who read this blog to visit the AAWA website and to educate themselves about the harmful policies of the Watchtower Society. Questions or thoughts are always welcome!
AAWA Website
As much as I want to focus this blog on Anglicanism and the Episcopal Church, it would be a great disservice not to touch on the effects that a damaging cult can have on one's life and spirituality. If there is one good thing that came out of my experience in this cult, it is the fact that I can use my voice and knowledge to held inform Episcopalians and others of this dangerous cult and I can potentially reach those who are still trapped in the Watchtower Society.
Thankfully, there are many organizations out there that were created to fight the Watchtower Society and to offer support for those who left, some of which are shunned by their own family and their friends. Some former members have literally given up everything in the search of truth and to relieve their conscience.
There is a new organization bringing the fight against the Watchtower Society called the Advocates for Awareness of Watchtower Abuses or AAWA for short. The organization is the broadest of its kind, including contributions from atheists, agnostics, Christians, and other religious/non-religious people. Personally, I think that this is a brilliant tactic. I've always maintained that the best way to reach those trapped in the Jehovah's Witness cult is to show them the utter lies and hypocrisy of the Watchtower Society and its Governing Body of elders. Sadly, you can argue in circles with a Jehovah's Witness on theology all day long, but you cannot dispute facts.
On the website, one can find articles and videos dealing with the lies of the Watchtower Society and resources to use when talking to Jehovah's Witnesses. The group also looks to expose just how damaging, even life threatening, some of the policies of the organization are. The group is also concerned with educating non-Jehovah's Witnesses about these policies.
I strongly encourage those who read this blog to visit the AAWA website and to educate themselves about the harmful policies of the Watchtower Society. Questions or thoughts are always welcome!
AAWA Website
Thursday, January 30, 2014
The Baptismal Covenant and Abortion: I See Hypocrites
Whenever I decided to create this blog, it was with the intention of focusing on the many positive experiences I've had as an Episcopalian and as an Anglican. However, there are times when I just can't understand some of the things that goes on in our church. One of these issues is the very controversial and very political issue of abortion.
There are many Episcopalians that are strongly against abortion, however, there are also many that support keeping abortion legal. However, let us first examine the actual official statement on abortion:
While the Episcopal Church recognizes a woman’s right to terminate her pregnancy, the church condones abortion only in cases of rape or incest, cases in which a mother’s physical or mental health is at risk, or cases involving fetal abnormalities. The church forbids “abortion as a means of birth control, family planning, sex selection or any reason of mere convenience.”
We can gather two things from this stance, first of all, we see that the Episcopal Church believes that it is a women's right to terminate her pregnancy. However, the Episcopal Church only sees abortion as being morally permissible under very extreme circumstances and absolutely reject abortion as a means of birth control.
However, does the Episcopal Church want to see abortions made illegal, excepting in the conditions mentioned in our own official statement. Nope! Not only that, one could argue that many in leadership positions in the Episcopal Church see nothing wrong with abortion at all. In fact, if one were to visit the Episcopal Digital Network, they will find plenty of articles written that support Planned Parenthood and support for abortions on demand. All of this is wrapped in the veil that a women shouldn't have to suffer the consequences of sexual intercourse. Whatever happened to the Church preaching a message of abstinence if one doesn't want to have a child? What about using contraceptives to ensure that a pregnancy doesn't occur in the first place? Where are articles written against abortion as a means of birth control? Where are the articles exposing the evils of abortion? Where is the balance? This idea that it is okay to use abortion as a form of birth control is disgusting and plain evil. This shouldn't be a political issue for the Christian, it should be a human rights issue and a moral decency issue. That said, the Episcopal Church is way too busy giving out awards to Episcopal priest Katherine Ragsdale, who believes that abortion should be a "Sacrament" of the Church and she would personally break the law to ensure that an underage girl could have an abortion. You are probably saying, "this is just one crazy priest, right?" Nope, this the is the dean and president of Episcopal Divinity School! Read the filth for yourself, if you dare: http://cnsnews.com/news/article/priest-who-calls-abortion-blessing-tells-congress-shed-break-law-help-minor-cross-state
Now, let us take a look at our the portion of our Baptismal Covenant that has been the focus of the Episcopal Church for quite some time:
"Will you strive for justice and peace among all
There are many Episcopalians that are strongly against abortion, however, there are also many that support keeping abortion legal. However, let us first examine the actual official statement on abortion:
While the Episcopal Church recognizes a woman’s right to terminate her pregnancy, the church condones abortion only in cases of rape or incest, cases in which a mother’s physical or mental health is at risk, or cases involving fetal abnormalities. The church forbids “abortion as a means of birth control, family planning, sex selection or any reason of mere convenience.”
We can gather two things from this stance, first of all, we see that the Episcopal Church believes that it is a women's right to terminate her pregnancy. However, the Episcopal Church only sees abortion as being morally permissible under very extreme circumstances and absolutely reject abortion as a means of birth control.
However, does the Episcopal Church want to see abortions made illegal, excepting in the conditions mentioned in our own official statement. Nope! Not only that, one could argue that many in leadership positions in the Episcopal Church see nothing wrong with abortion at all. In fact, if one were to visit the Episcopal Digital Network, they will find plenty of articles written that support Planned Parenthood and support for abortions on demand. All of this is wrapped in the veil that a women shouldn't have to suffer the consequences of sexual intercourse. Whatever happened to the Church preaching a message of abstinence if one doesn't want to have a child? What about using contraceptives to ensure that a pregnancy doesn't occur in the first place? Where are articles written against abortion as a means of birth control? Where are the articles exposing the evils of abortion? Where is the balance? This idea that it is okay to use abortion as a form of birth control is disgusting and plain evil. This shouldn't be a political issue for the Christian, it should be a human rights issue and a moral decency issue. That said, the Episcopal Church is way too busy giving out awards to Episcopal priest Katherine Ragsdale, who believes that abortion should be a "Sacrament" of the Church and she would personally break the law to ensure that an underage girl could have an abortion. You are probably saying, "this is just one crazy priest, right?" Nope, this the is the dean and president of Episcopal Divinity School! Read the filth for yourself, if you dare: http://cnsnews.com/news/article/priest-who-calls-abortion-blessing-tells-congress-shed-break-law-help-minor-cross-state
Now, let us take a look at our the portion of our Baptismal Covenant that has been the focus of the Episcopal Church for quite some time:
"Will you strive for justice and peace among all
people, and respect the dignity of every human
being?"
I guess striving for the dignity, peace, and justice of every human being doesn't include the unborn baby? Maybe our baptismal covenant should be re-written to include that we will "respect the dignity of every human being, unless they are unborn or if they go against progressive political politics." Now, if the Episcopal Church added that to their Baptismal Covenant, I that would square the Church away on my hypocrisy claim. If you think that the murder of a generation of children is "progress," then you are probably a psychopath.
At the end of the day, abortion is a very difficult decision and it is one that shouldn't be taken lightly. It is also true that the Church should be a voice of forgiveness, understanding, and love. Personally, I don't think that abortion should be 100% illegal, I think that the reasons given in the Episcopal Church's official stance are all good reasons and morally acceptable reasons to consider an abortion. However, our Church is being lead by a bunch of hypocrites who cite the Baptismal Covenant when it agrees with their politics, yet they utterly trash it when it goes against their politics.
As laity, we need to make our leaders "respect the dignity of every human being," including those who are unborn. Leave the politics at home! Thoughts?
Thursday, January 16, 2014
The Beauty of Anglicanism
First of all, sorry for the delay in posting. I have been working two jobs and it has made it almost impossible to keep up with anything. That said, things are starting to return to normal.
I wanted to share some of my favorite youtube videos with you all that really captures some of the beauty that is the Anglican Christian tradition. I hope you all enjoy the videos and I hope there is something for everybody here. As always, please feel free to comment!
I wanted to share some of my favorite youtube videos with you all that really captures some of the beauty that is the Anglican Christian tradition. I hope you all enjoy the videos and I hope there is something for everybody here. As always, please feel free to comment!
Friday, July 12, 2013
Our Hope Lies With The Youth
Our hope lies with the youth. It's no secret that any church that wants to stay relevant (and in business) needs to have a strong youth demographic. The purpose of this post is not to dwell over the numbers of youth in our Episcopal congregations, but to look at what it is the youth of our church believe.
Common sense would suggest that the youth in our church would be more receptive to praise bands and modern liturgies. Common sense would also suggest that the youth in our church have less use for historic hymns, the Creeds, the prayer book, and other treasures that define what it means to be Anglican. However, in this case, common sense is not reality. In this blog, I've made it not secret that I'm supportive of many directions the Episcopal Church has taken, especially the inclusion of our gay/lesbian brothers and sisters. That said, I'm strongly committed to the historic creeds, the prayer book, and traditional Anglican theology and Christian understanding. I would go as far to say that many, if not most, Episcopalians feel this way. However, it seems that trashing the Creeds (Spong), the liturgy (disco and Bob Dylan masses), and rejecting the deity of Christ (Spong and Jesus Seminar) is something that can be done in the Episcopal Church without any sort of protest by leadership. It seems that some of our leadership seem downright afraid to proclaim Christ as the risen Lord!
This is where the youth come in and why I have hope for the Episcopal Church. Middle-Aged Episcopalians (now the leadership of the Church) and baby boomers seem to be the biggest demographic that is obsessed with changing or tolerating almost anything and everything that takes us away from being Anglican. To be sure, not all feel this way and are actively doing these things, but we cannot ignore what seems to be the truth. Take a recent poll on the possible revisions to the 1982 Hymnal. The poll found that those under 29 were the most hesitant when it comes down to any sort of revision. What group is most willing to accept and even desire revision and changes? Baby-boomers and middle-aged Episcopalians. These findings are quite consistent across the board, the youth place great value on tradition and ancient liturgy, while middle-agers seek to move on from these traditions. Many even go as far to claim that these things are necessary to bring in the youth! http://thesubdeansstall.org/2012/05/15/dont-do-it-for-the-kids-of-hymnal-revision-and-young-adults/
Not only will changes to the liturgy and ancient traditions not bring in any new young members, but it will effectively alienate most of the youth that we actually have! It's amazing to see how much value our youth place on traditional Christian theology and how much they value our Anglican heritage. Being under 29, I'm one of them. Many middle-agers and baby boomers don't seem to understand that you can be committed to traditional Christian theology and be welcoming and inclusive of all God's children. Fortunately our youth understand this issue that seems to be perplexing those in leadership. If you want to bring in new people, you have to stand for something, you can't be all things to all people, that is impossible. Therefore, despite the bleak outlooks for the Episcopal Church, I remain very hopeful and confident that our youth has what it takes to turn this ship around. Thoughts or comments??
Common sense would suggest that the youth in our church would be more receptive to praise bands and modern liturgies. Common sense would also suggest that the youth in our church have less use for historic hymns, the Creeds, the prayer book, and other treasures that define what it means to be Anglican. However, in this case, common sense is not reality. In this blog, I've made it not secret that I'm supportive of many directions the Episcopal Church has taken, especially the inclusion of our gay/lesbian brothers and sisters. That said, I'm strongly committed to the historic creeds, the prayer book, and traditional Anglican theology and Christian understanding. I would go as far to say that many, if not most, Episcopalians feel this way. However, it seems that trashing the Creeds (Spong), the liturgy (disco and Bob Dylan masses), and rejecting the deity of Christ (Spong and Jesus Seminar) is something that can be done in the Episcopal Church without any sort of protest by leadership. It seems that some of our leadership seem downright afraid to proclaim Christ as the risen Lord!
This is where the youth come in and why I have hope for the Episcopal Church. Middle-Aged Episcopalians (now the leadership of the Church) and baby boomers seem to be the biggest demographic that is obsessed with changing or tolerating almost anything and everything that takes us away from being Anglican. To be sure, not all feel this way and are actively doing these things, but we cannot ignore what seems to be the truth. Take a recent poll on the possible revisions to the 1982 Hymnal. The poll found that those under 29 were the most hesitant when it comes down to any sort of revision. What group is most willing to accept and even desire revision and changes? Baby-boomers and middle-aged Episcopalians. These findings are quite consistent across the board, the youth place great value on tradition and ancient liturgy, while middle-agers seek to move on from these traditions. Many even go as far to claim that these things are necessary to bring in the youth! http://thesubdeansstall.org/2012/05/15/dont-do-it-for-the-kids-of-hymnal-revision-and-young-adults/
Not only will changes to the liturgy and ancient traditions not bring in any new young members, but it will effectively alienate most of the youth that we actually have! It's amazing to see how much value our youth place on traditional Christian theology and how much they value our Anglican heritage. Being under 29, I'm one of them. Many middle-agers and baby boomers don't seem to understand that you can be committed to traditional Christian theology and be welcoming and inclusive of all God's children. Fortunately our youth understand this issue that seems to be perplexing those in leadership. If you want to bring in new people, you have to stand for something, you can't be all things to all people, that is impossible. Therefore, despite the bleak outlooks for the Episcopal Church, I remain very hopeful and confident that our youth has what it takes to turn this ship around. Thoughts or comments??
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
Jehovah's Witnesses and the Act of Shunning
Talking to my fellow Anglicans/Episcopalians in my parish and from around the world, I've noticed that many are either utterly confused by or don't understand what many Jehovah's Witnesses teach and what many who left or are disfellowshipped go through. It is my hope that this blog and this post help those Christians who don't understand many Jehovah's Witness teachings to come to a basic knowledge of what they teach.
First of all, shunning and disfellowshipping happen when a baptized Jehovah's Witness breaks the rules set forth by the governing body. Breaking these rules can be as simple as disagreeing with their doctrine (major or minor) or by breaking "moral codes" such as sex outside of marriage. If the congregations elders (men in charge of each congregation) become aware of this activity by a JW, then they are to meet with the elders to discuss the issues. If the elders find the JW is not repentant or still has disagreement, then they are often times disfellowshipped. This disfellowshipping lasts until the JW is repentant and reinstated back into the fold. During this time of disfelowshipping, no JW is to have any contact with the separated brother, including all family and friends. It is common to find parents that won't have anything to do with their separated sons and daughters and vice versa.
In my family, both my mom and dad are disfellowshipped and they are both shunned by my JW Aunt and Uncle and their own niece. My grandmother is also a JW, but she doesn't pay much attention to these rules and talks to her daughter in secret. At a recent wedding shower, my Aunt and Uncle pretended like my mom and dad did not exist. It is so very difficult for my own mother to have no relationship with her own brother. However, since my sisters and I were never baptized, they do not shun us, that is how wonky JW theology really is! My story is just one of thousands around the world regarding JWs and shunning and mine is far from being the most extreme.
How did Jehovah's Witnesses arrive at such a gross doctrine and perversion of Holy Scripture?
The theology of shunning stands mainly on the use of one piece of scripture alone, found in 1 Corinthians chp. 5:
1 Corinthians 5:11 "But now I am writing YOU to quit mixing in company with anyone called a brother that is a fornicator or a greedy person or an idolater or a reviler or a drunkard or an extortioner, not even eating with such a man. For what do I have to do with judging those outside? Do YOU not judge those inside, while God judges those outside? Remove the wicked [man] from among yourselves."
First of all, it should be stated that it is true in some circumstances that limiting the amount of socializing one does with a person who can have a negative impact on their own spiritual health or well-being can be a necessary reality. However, nowhere does it state in scripture that one must totally shun an individual and have absolutely nothing to do with them, especially when it comes to family. In fact, Paul writes in 2 Thessalonians that we should be encouraging to those who have walked away from the faith.
To read more about shunning: http://www.jwfacts.com/watchtower/disfellowship-shunning.php
To read more about the sad reality of shunning: http://www.jwfacts.com/watchtower/experiences/shunning-experiences.php
First of all, shunning and disfellowshipping happen when a baptized Jehovah's Witness breaks the rules set forth by the governing body. Breaking these rules can be as simple as disagreeing with their doctrine (major or minor) or by breaking "moral codes" such as sex outside of marriage. If the congregations elders (men in charge of each congregation) become aware of this activity by a JW, then they are to meet with the elders to discuss the issues. If the elders find the JW is not repentant or still has disagreement, then they are often times disfellowshipped. This disfellowshipping lasts until the JW is repentant and reinstated back into the fold. During this time of disfelowshipping, no JW is to have any contact with the separated brother, including all family and friends. It is common to find parents that won't have anything to do with their separated sons and daughters and vice versa.
In my family, both my mom and dad are disfellowshipped and they are both shunned by my JW Aunt and Uncle and their own niece. My grandmother is also a JW, but she doesn't pay much attention to these rules and talks to her daughter in secret. At a recent wedding shower, my Aunt and Uncle pretended like my mom and dad did not exist. It is so very difficult for my own mother to have no relationship with her own brother. However, since my sisters and I were never baptized, they do not shun us, that is how wonky JW theology really is! My story is just one of thousands around the world regarding JWs and shunning and mine is far from being the most extreme.
How did Jehovah's Witnesses arrive at such a gross doctrine and perversion of Holy Scripture?
The theology of shunning stands mainly on the use of one piece of scripture alone, found in 1 Corinthians chp. 5:
1 Corinthians 5:11 "But now I am writing YOU to quit mixing in company with anyone called a brother that is a fornicator or a greedy person or an idolater or a reviler or a drunkard or an extortioner, not even eating with such a man. For what do I have to do with judging those outside? Do YOU not judge those inside, while God judges those outside? Remove the wicked [man] from among yourselves."
First of all, it should be stated that it is true in some circumstances that limiting the amount of socializing one does with a person who can have a negative impact on their own spiritual health or well-being can be a necessary reality. However, nowhere does it state in scripture that one must totally shun an individual and have absolutely nothing to do with them, especially when it comes to family. In fact, Paul writes in 2 Thessalonians that we should be encouraging to those who have walked away from the faith.
To read more about shunning: http://www.jwfacts.com/watchtower/disfellowship-shunning.php
To read more about the sad reality of shunning: http://www.jwfacts.com/watchtower/experiences/shunning-experiences.php
Saturday, May 4, 2013
We Need an Anglican Spiritual Revival in the Episcopal Church
With this blog post I'm more or less thinking out loud, so please bear with me a little!
Lately, I've been thinking a lot about church legalism and dogma. Dwelling too much on these things can lead one into a sort of "dryness" when it comes to the spiritual aspect of being a Christian and being an Episcopalian. Now, don't get wrong, I think that a certain amount of legalism and dogma are certainly necessary and, unlike others, I don't necessarily see these things as being reasons why more people don't occupy a pew on Sunday. As a traditionalist, yet welcoming Anglican, I definitely think that Anglicanism, in general, could do more to enforce the historic creeds as the standard of Christian faith. That said, this blog isn't about that, but about how we sometimes can focus too much on legalism and dogma and lose sight of the spiritual aspects of Christianity and, in particular, Anglicanism.
So, what do I mean by an Anglican spiritual revival and how can we accomplish such a task? Well, I'm no expert and I'm no theoligian, but we do have a plethora of resources and possibilites that are at our disposal as Episcopalians.
First of all, as Episcopalians, we can know God through the Sacraments. We can most intimately know God through the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist. As Episcopalians, do we really examine ourselves and our consciences before we partake in the Blessed Sacrament or has it become routine and something we don't think much about? If we don't take the Eucharist seriously or place much importance on it, how can we expect others to? Do we really reflect on what the Eucharist means and what it is after reception and throughout the week?
The Sacrament of Confession. Do many of our churches even offer private confession anymore or on a somewhat regular basis? Some do, but I would say most do not. I'm not saying that people should be urged to confess their sins to a priest, but many are surprised by the spiritual benefits that come by confessing their sins to a priest.
The Sacrament of Healing. Thankfully, the Sacrament of Healing has seen a revival in the Episcopal Church and is being offered more regularly by more and more parishes. We must never forget that WE ARE a Sacramental church and that it is that that separates us and makes us different than today's run of the mill Christianity.
Secondly, what has happened to Morning and Evening prayer? To me, the Daily Office is one of the best ways to grow our spirituality and come closer to God. How many churches even bother with the Daily Office anymore? To be sure, the Daily Office can be done at home, but there is something about a small group of Christians getting together in the morning or evening for prayer that is really special. How do we revive this lost practice?
The Anglican Rosary, Marian Rosary, and Rosary groups. I have found the centering prayers of both the Anglican and Marian Rosaries to be a tremendous help in growing spiritually. How many Anglicans bother with the Rosary and how many churches have Anglican Rosary groups? If not, why not start one yourself if it interests you and see where it goes?
Brotherhood of St. Andrew, Episcopal Church Women, and the Daughters of the King. Many parishes have active chapters of both Episcopal Church Women and Daughters of the King, but it seems that the Brotherhood of St. Andrew is somewhat rare. The Brotherhood is a group dedicated to prayer, evangelism, and studying the Bible. Maybe starting a Brotherhood chapter in your parish would help to get more men involved in the parish?
As Anglicans, we have a lot of tools at our disposal that have fallen by the way side or are forgotten. Ask yourself, what can you do to bring about an Anglican spiritual revival in your parish? Maybe God is calling you to start a prayer group or to get involved in the Daily Office? If a spiritual revival doesn't happen in the Episcopal Church, we will continue our slide into irrelevance?
Please share your stories of your spiritual journey or any other ideas that might bring about a spiritual revival in the Episcopal Church.
Lately, I've been thinking a lot about church legalism and dogma. Dwelling too much on these things can lead one into a sort of "dryness" when it comes to the spiritual aspect of being a Christian and being an Episcopalian. Now, don't get wrong, I think that a certain amount of legalism and dogma are certainly necessary and, unlike others, I don't necessarily see these things as being reasons why more people don't occupy a pew on Sunday. As a traditionalist, yet welcoming Anglican, I definitely think that Anglicanism, in general, could do more to enforce the historic creeds as the standard of Christian faith. That said, this blog isn't about that, but about how we sometimes can focus too much on legalism and dogma and lose sight of the spiritual aspects of Christianity and, in particular, Anglicanism.
So, what do I mean by an Anglican spiritual revival and how can we accomplish such a task? Well, I'm no expert and I'm no theoligian, but we do have a plethora of resources and possibilites that are at our disposal as Episcopalians.
First of all, as Episcopalians, we can know God through the Sacraments. We can most intimately know God through the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist. As Episcopalians, do we really examine ourselves and our consciences before we partake in the Blessed Sacrament or has it become routine and something we don't think much about? If we don't take the Eucharist seriously or place much importance on it, how can we expect others to? Do we really reflect on what the Eucharist means and what it is after reception and throughout the week?
The Sacrament of Confession. Do many of our churches even offer private confession anymore or on a somewhat regular basis? Some do, but I would say most do not. I'm not saying that people should be urged to confess their sins to a priest, but many are surprised by the spiritual benefits that come by confessing their sins to a priest.
The Sacrament of Healing. Thankfully, the Sacrament of Healing has seen a revival in the Episcopal Church and is being offered more regularly by more and more parishes. We must never forget that WE ARE a Sacramental church and that it is that that separates us and makes us different than today's run of the mill Christianity.
Secondly, what has happened to Morning and Evening prayer? To me, the Daily Office is one of the best ways to grow our spirituality and come closer to God. How many churches even bother with the Daily Office anymore? To be sure, the Daily Office can be done at home, but there is something about a small group of Christians getting together in the morning or evening for prayer that is really special. How do we revive this lost practice?
The Anglican Rosary, Marian Rosary, and Rosary groups. I have found the centering prayers of both the Anglican and Marian Rosaries to be a tremendous help in growing spiritually. How many Anglicans bother with the Rosary and how many churches have Anglican Rosary groups? If not, why not start one yourself if it interests you and see where it goes?
Brotherhood of St. Andrew, Episcopal Church Women, and the Daughters of the King. Many parishes have active chapters of both Episcopal Church Women and Daughters of the King, but it seems that the Brotherhood of St. Andrew is somewhat rare. The Brotherhood is a group dedicated to prayer, evangelism, and studying the Bible. Maybe starting a Brotherhood chapter in your parish would help to get more men involved in the parish?
As Anglicans, we have a lot of tools at our disposal that have fallen by the way side or are forgotten. Ask yourself, what can you do to bring about an Anglican spiritual revival in your parish? Maybe God is calling you to start a prayer group or to get involved in the Daily Office? If a spiritual revival doesn't happen in the Episcopal Church, we will continue our slide into irrelevance?
Please share your stories of your spiritual journey or any other ideas that might bring about a spiritual revival in the Episcopal Church.
Saturday, April 20, 2013
New page tabs added: Anglican/Episcopal Book Shelf, The Anglican Rosary Resource Page
Be sure to check out the new page tabs that have been added at the top of the page!
Anglican/Episcopal Book Shelf--This page was created as a way to educate Anglicans on some of the most important books that all Anglicans should read. New books are added all the time and I plan on posting reviews/reflections in the coming weeks.
The Anglican Rosary Resource Page--This page was created to educate Anglicans about the Anglican Rosary. Included on this page are links to the history of prayer beads, tutorials, blogs, and resources on where to find Anglican prayer beads. A link has also been added on the Marian Rosary. Anglicans are a people of prayer and of a prayer book, it is my hope that the Anglican and Marian Rosaries continue to take root in Anglican/Episcopal parishes around the world and, especially, in the United States.
God Bless!
Anglican/Episcopal Book Shelf--This page was created as a way to educate Anglicans on some of the most important books that all Anglicans should read. New books are added all the time and I plan on posting reviews/reflections in the coming weeks.
The Anglican Rosary Resource Page--This page was created to educate Anglicans about the Anglican Rosary. Included on this page are links to the history of prayer beads, tutorials, blogs, and resources on where to find Anglican prayer beads. A link has also been added on the Marian Rosary. Anglicans are a people of prayer and of a prayer book, it is my hope that the Anglican and Marian Rosaries continue to take root in Anglican/Episcopal parishes around the world and, especially, in the United States.
God Bless!
Saturday, April 6, 2013
A message to Jehovah's Witnesses from Anti-Watchtower Activists
Amazing new organization dedicated to exposing the lies of the Watchtower Society and helping to inform Jehovah's Witnesses of the dangers of being a part of the Watchtower Society. God Bless these people and this organization.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HmCGtjMrZ7A
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HmCGtjMrZ7A
Monday, March 25, 2013
Why Constant Involvement In Secular Politics Damages the Body of Christ
Secular politics is not the reason I created this blog and it is not something I look to talk about very much within this blog. However, I've noticed a disturbing trend not only within the leadership of the Episcopal Church, but also within the greater body of Christianity.
Firstly, it should be said that there is absolutely nothing wrong with Christians being involved in secular politics and holding various opinions when it comes to the political issues of the day. There is also nothing wrong with Christian leaders holding a wide-array of opinions when it comes to secular politics.
All of this being said, the problem is when the leaders of Christian churches state their political opinions as being the opinion of the whole church. There is not one Christian denomination that exists where all members hold the exact same opinions on politics and the issues of the day. Heck, there is not even a single parish where you can find people who hold the exact same opinions on politics. People that are required to hold the exact same opinions on all issues can often be found in religious cults, like the Jehovah's Witnesses. Thus, when the leadership of a church makes these claims that "we think this way" on a certain issue, it becomes a source of strain between those who share those opinions and those who do not share those opinions. It becomes even more problematic when the leadership of the church calls on all of their flock to lobby politicians in support of a controversial political cause.
In the Episcopal Church, in particular, there is now a push that calls on all Episcopalians to support stricter gun control. The issue of gun control is extremely emotional and controversial for many Americans. It is an issue that needs to be discussed and rational debate and discussion should be at the forefront of all discussion. That said, it seems that the Episcopal Church leadership has already decided that they support gun control and there hasn't been any discussion about the issue between those that agree with gun control and those who do not agree with more gun control. What about those who disagree with stronger gun control? Are their opinions of no value to the church? What is to be gained by taking such divisive stances? I have no problem with bishops and church leaders making their opinions known on gun control, whether they are for or against, but we should not be in the business of calling on all the flock to support or not support these controversial issues. It should be noted that those who do not support stronger gun control do not face punishment of any kind by those in leadership positions, but there are sure to feel alienated that the church doesn't seem to value their opinion on the issue. Therefore, I think that it is quite easy to see how taking such controversial stands harms the church faithful. Why can't the leadership and bishops stand against gun violence, but allow that there are many opinions and views on how we reduce gun violence and crime and that they encourage the faithful to follow their own consciences on such matters. After all, we are not a cult.
Also, such lobbying is sure to expose the hypocrisy of those in leadership positions. There seems to be much concern about innocent American children being gunned down by lunatics with guns, yet there has been no statements of about innocent Muslim children being killed by US drone strikes in the Middle-East. These kind of things exposes the partisanship of the leaders of the church and makes the entire denomination look bad.
Further, since the 1960s, mainline Christianity has suffered massive decline in membership and church attendance, the Episcopal Church has seen massive losses since the 1960s. You would think that there would be more concern about how we get people in the pews than taking controversial stands on the "flavor of the month" political issue of the day.
The Episcopal Church and mainline Christianity is not alone, the evangelical Southern Baptist Convention has recently been seeing decline over the last several years. The statements of justified wars in Iraq and the Middle-East and the strong lobbying against gay marriage has not been something that has been of help to evangelicals as of late. People are searching for God and have a strong thirst for the Gospel message, but many are turned off by the constant political lobbying and involvement in secular politics. Young people are so turned off by this kind of politicking, that they call themselves "spiritual" but not "religious" and seem to have no interest in involving themselves in organized religion.
If we are truly a welcoming and accepting church, then we as Episcopalians need to find ways to make ALL feel welcome at our parishes and in the Anglican faith. Differences of opinion should be valued and respected and the leadership should be wary of involving the church in issues that are sure to be divisive, especially when very little is to be gained by such lobbying and involvement. Anything else, in my opinion, runs dangerously close to being exclusive and even cult-like in mentality.
Please feel free to comment!!
Firstly, it should be said that there is absolutely nothing wrong with Christians being involved in secular politics and holding various opinions when it comes to the political issues of the day. There is also nothing wrong with Christian leaders holding a wide-array of opinions when it comes to secular politics.
All of this being said, the problem is when the leaders of Christian churches state their political opinions as being the opinion of the whole church. There is not one Christian denomination that exists where all members hold the exact same opinions on politics and the issues of the day. Heck, there is not even a single parish where you can find people who hold the exact same opinions on politics. People that are required to hold the exact same opinions on all issues can often be found in religious cults, like the Jehovah's Witnesses. Thus, when the leadership of a church makes these claims that "we think this way" on a certain issue, it becomes a source of strain between those who share those opinions and those who do not share those opinions. It becomes even more problematic when the leadership of the church calls on all of their flock to lobby politicians in support of a controversial political cause.
In the Episcopal Church, in particular, there is now a push that calls on all Episcopalians to support stricter gun control. The issue of gun control is extremely emotional and controversial for many Americans. It is an issue that needs to be discussed and rational debate and discussion should be at the forefront of all discussion. That said, it seems that the Episcopal Church leadership has already decided that they support gun control and there hasn't been any discussion about the issue between those that agree with gun control and those who do not agree with more gun control. What about those who disagree with stronger gun control? Are their opinions of no value to the church? What is to be gained by taking such divisive stances? I have no problem with bishops and church leaders making their opinions known on gun control, whether they are for or against, but we should not be in the business of calling on all the flock to support or not support these controversial issues. It should be noted that those who do not support stronger gun control do not face punishment of any kind by those in leadership positions, but there are sure to feel alienated that the church doesn't seem to value their opinion on the issue. Therefore, I think that it is quite easy to see how taking such controversial stands harms the church faithful. Why can't the leadership and bishops stand against gun violence, but allow that there are many opinions and views on how we reduce gun violence and crime and that they encourage the faithful to follow their own consciences on such matters. After all, we are not a cult.
Also, such lobbying is sure to expose the hypocrisy of those in leadership positions. There seems to be much concern about innocent American children being gunned down by lunatics with guns, yet there has been no statements of about innocent Muslim children being killed by US drone strikes in the Middle-East. These kind of things exposes the partisanship of the leaders of the church and makes the entire denomination look bad.
Further, since the 1960s, mainline Christianity has suffered massive decline in membership and church attendance, the Episcopal Church has seen massive losses since the 1960s. You would think that there would be more concern about how we get people in the pews than taking controversial stands on the "flavor of the month" political issue of the day.
The Episcopal Church and mainline Christianity is not alone, the evangelical Southern Baptist Convention has recently been seeing decline over the last several years. The statements of justified wars in Iraq and the Middle-East and the strong lobbying against gay marriage has not been something that has been of help to evangelicals as of late. People are searching for God and have a strong thirst for the Gospel message, but many are turned off by the constant political lobbying and involvement in secular politics. Young people are so turned off by this kind of politicking, that they call themselves "spiritual" but not "religious" and seem to have no interest in involving themselves in organized religion.
If we are truly a welcoming and accepting church, then we as Episcopalians need to find ways to make ALL feel welcome at our parishes and in the Anglican faith. Differences of opinion should be valued and respected and the leadership should be wary of involving the church in issues that are sure to be divisive, especially when very little is to be gained by such lobbying and involvement. Anything else, in my opinion, runs dangerously close to being exclusive and even cult-like in mentality.
Please feel free to comment!!
Monday, February 25, 2013
So You Are New To The Episcopal Church? Check Out These Fine Books!!
Being new to the Anglican/Episcopal tradition can be a bit intimidating, especially if you are coming from a non-liturgical church background. If you have questions, I would strongly suggest speaking with the parish priest first, however, there are many resources and books that can help you along the way! Keep in mind that the books I am suggesting are introductory and quite basic in their nature.
1. Episcopal Church Handbook. This is probably my favorite introductory book to the Episcopal Church. Many questions are answered in this book, including when to kneel, how to take Communion, and why we do many of the things we do. The books offers a basic introduction to the Sacraments and other worship practices. The books is chalk full of history and fun-filled facts. Highly recommended!!
Episcopal Handbook
2. Your Faith, Your Life: An Invitation to the Episcopal Church. Another basic introductory book that comes highly recommended.
Description: "An everything-you-need-to-know guide for newcomers to engage deeply in the Christian life in the tradition of the Episcopal Church, written in an accessible, conversational style. This book will carefully present the Episcopal Church's language of worship theology church structure and sacraments so newcomers will have the vocabulary to share their beliefs and practices, explore the Bible, understand prayer and discern their own ministry within the church. Similar in format to the earlier book for teens, this new book will draw on the success of the teen book by retaining its broad content areas as well as its clear and simple language, while inviting readers to consider their relationship with God and the church community as an ongoing process of transformation and providing a way to engage in that process."
Your Faith, Your Life
3. Welcome to the Book of Common Prayer. Another introductory book, however, this one focuses on the Book of Common Prayer. This guide and a hard copy of the 1979 Book of Common prayer go great together!
Welcome to the Book of Common Prayer
1979 Book of Common Prayer, Pew Edition
These books should be a good start in learning about Episcopal worship, church history, and basic theology. If you have found a book that is helpful for new Episcopalians that is not mentioned here, please tell me about it in the comments section!
1. Episcopal Church Handbook. This is probably my favorite introductory book to the Episcopal Church. Many questions are answered in this book, including when to kneel, how to take Communion, and why we do many of the things we do. The books offers a basic introduction to the Sacraments and other worship practices. The books is chalk full of history and fun-filled facts. Highly recommended!!
Episcopal Handbook
2. Your Faith, Your Life: An Invitation to the Episcopal Church. Another basic introductory book that comes highly recommended.
Description: "An everything-you-need-to-know guide for newcomers to engage deeply in the Christian life in the tradition of the Episcopal Church, written in an accessible, conversational style. This book will carefully present the Episcopal Church's language of worship theology church structure and sacraments so newcomers will have the vocabulary to share their beliefs and practices, explore the Bible, understand prayer and discern their own ministry within the church. Similar in format to the earlier book for teens, this new book will draw on the success of the teen book by retaining its broad content areas as well as its clear and simple language, while inviting readers to consider their relationship with God and the church community as an ongoing process of transformation and providing a way to engage in that process."
Your Faith, Your Life
3. Welcome to the Book of Common Prayer. Another introductory book, however, this one focuses on the Book of Common Prayer. This guide and a hard copy of the 1979 Book of Common prayer go great together!
Welcome to the Book of Common Prayer
1979 Book of Common Prayer, Pew Edition
These books should be a good start in learning about Episcopal worship, church history, and basic theology. If you have found a book that is helpful for new Episcopalians that is not mentioned here, please tell me about it in the comments section!
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Why Become Anglican/Episcopalian? Part 1
After being out of the Jehovah's Witness cult for over 8 years, why did I become Episcopalian? This is a valid question, considering the plethora of church options available in America. Therefore, I will create a list of what I appreciate about the Anglican tradition and why the Episcopal Church makes sense for me:
1. Weekly celebration of the Eucharist. Growing up a Jehovah's Witness, only the 144,000 heaven-bound Jehovah's Witnesses could receive communion. I have always had a strong desire for taking part in the Eucharist and the Episcopal Church celebrates that heavenly feast of the body and blood of Christ at least once a week.
2. Traditional worship and liturgy. There is something very peaceful about worshipping in a liturgical church. Sharing a common liturgical tradition with our Catholic brothers and sisters and a worship tradition that can be traced back to the very early church is reassuring.
3. Apostolic succession. Our bishops and priests have an apostolic line that can be traced back to the Church of England and back through the Roman Catholic Church and back to the apostles.
4. We are a sacramental church. We have the 7 sacraments that assures us of God's grace and forgiveness for our sins.
5. The Book of Common Prayer. Everything that one needs to know about what Anglican's believe can be found in our prayer book. The prayer book contains all of our rites and ceremonies, as well as, our theology and beliefs.
6. The Episcopal Church is an open and welcoming church. All are truly welcome to the Episcopal Church, whether you are liberal, conservative, or moderate, you have a place in our church. We appreciate having open and honest conversations and debate. Growing Jehovah's Witness, the idea of having open and honest debate, as well as, diversity of belief, is a welcome change!
7. One's private devotions are up to you. Private devotions are up to the individual believer. Some pray the Rosary and some do not. Some believe in private confession and some do not. Nobody will force something upon you that goes against you conscience.
This is part 1 of this entry, as there are many more reasons as to why I chose the Anglican church. I hope you enjoyed this entry, feel free to leave any comments or ask questions!!
1. Weekly celebration of the Eucharist. Growing up a Jehovah's Witness, only the 144,000 heaven-bound Jehovah's Witnesses could receive communion. I have always had a strong desire for taking part in the Eucharist and the Episcopal Church celebrates that heavenly feast of the body and blood of Christ at least once a week.
2. Traditional worship and liturgy. There is something very peaceful about worshipping in a liturgical church. Sharing a common liturgical tradition with our Catholic brothers and sisters and a worship tradition that can be traced back to the very early church is reassuring.
3. Apostolic succession. Our bishops and priests have an apostolic line that can be traced back to the Church of England and back through the Roman Catholic Church and back to the apostles.
4. We are a sacramental church. We have the 7 sacraments that assures us of God's grace and forgiveness for our sins.
5. The Book of Common Prayer. Everything that one needs to know about what Anglican's believe can be found in our prayer book. The prayer book contains all of our rites and ceremonies, as well as, our theology and beliefs.
6. The Episcopal Church is an open and welcoming church. All are truly welcome to the Episcopal Church, whether you are liberal, conservative, or moderate, you have a place in our church. We appreciate having open and honest conversations and debate. Growing Jehovah's Witness, the idea of having open and honest debate, as well as, diversity of belief, is a welcome change!
7. One's private devotions are up to you. Private devotions are up to the individual believer. Some pray the Rosary and some do not. Some believe in private confession and some do not. Nobody will force something upon you that goes against you conscience.
This is part 1 of this entry, as there are many more reasons as to why I chose the Anglican church. I hope you enjoyed this entry, feel free to leave any comments or ask questions!!
Friday, February 15, 2013
My Journey out of the Jehovah's Witness cult
Before I get to my story about life growing up as a Jehovah's Witness, it's important to understand the basics about what Jehovah's Witnesses believe. Jehovah's Witness believe in these key doctrines and practices:
1. There is no trinity, but only the father (Jehovah is the name they give him).
2. Jesus was the Archangel Michael in heaven and lived as a perfect and sinless man while on earth as Jesus Christ.
3. Nobody goes to heaven except the 144,000 chosen Jehovah's Witnesses.
4. All will be destroyed in the apocalypse, except faithful Jehovah's Witnesses.
5. The surviving Jehovah's Witnesses will live on a paradise earth for eternity and will be immortal.
6. Any Jehovah's Witness who breaks their rules, questions their theology, or leaves is "disfellowshipped" from the congregation and must be "shunned" by all Jehovah's Witnesses, including family and friends.
7. Reading the material of any ex-Jehovah's Witness is strictly forbidden.
8. Jehovah's Witnesses worship in a church building called a "Kingdom Hall" and worship and bible studies are termed "meetings." These "meetings" are held three times a week and attendance is very very strongly encouraged.
9. The organization's theology is decided by a group called the "governing body" of Jehovah's Witnesses. These men are said to be spirit directed and they alone speak for Jehovah. This governing body is the head of the Watchtower Society, the producers of all Jehovah's Witness material.
10. Any extra activities that involve associating with those who are not Jehovah's Witnesses must be limited.
11. Jehovah's Witnesses do not celebrate any Christian Holidays because they are considered to be pagan in origin. Also, JWs do not stand up for the Pledge of Allegiance or National Anthem.
12. A Jehovah's Witness must never have a blood transfusion, even when faced with death.
13. Demons can attack you if you choose to watch bad movies, listen to bad music, engage in any sort of pagan rituals, talk bad about Jehovah, or have bad thoughts about Jehovah or his organization (Watchtower Society).
There is much more to the Jehovah's Witness cult than this, but understanding these basic principles will help those who read my story to understand what is going on and just how hard it is to be a Jehovah's Witness.
My story:
I've been out of the Jehovah's Witness cult for over ten years now. I got out when both of my parents got divorced and, subsequently, disfellowshipped. All this happened when I was about 17 years old. Both of my parents just up and left the religion and I had no real time to detox. I grew up never thinking that I was good enough to serve Jehovah, so I never got baptized, but for all intents and purposes, I was a Jehovah's Witness nearly my entire childhood. After my parents were disfellowshipped it took some time for me to accept that the JWs were not correct about many things.
Like many Jehovah's Witness youth, I couldn't "hang out" with any of my friends at school, everything I listened to, read, or watched was strictly monitored. I could not play in any sports or join any after school activities. I couldn't go to any of the school dances or sporting events. I had to go to all of the meetings and study all of the materials before hand on top of all the homework I had to do. I lived in a state of near constant fear that Jehovah would destroy me on Judgement Day because I wasn't good enough. I worried almost every night that demons might try to harm me because I had "bad" thoughts about Jehovah and the Watchtower Society. I'm always amused at those who call all organized religion "cults," I would have given anything to have been raised in the "Methodist" or "Lutheran" cults that many of my school friends were raised in!! It amazes me just how many of us kids who were raised in this cult have the same story of our childhood. Thankfully, none of the kids I grew up with and went to school with were not that bad to deal with. That said, having to sit down during the Pledge of Allegiance and National Anthem was terribly embarrassing. Also humiliating was the fact that when the other children sang Christmas songs in music class, I had to sit at a table, sometimes by myself, while the other kids sang these songs. I could not participate in any holiday parties or any of the school plays. It's still painful to this day to think of all the experiences that I missed that the average kid takes for granted.
After a few years of "detoxing" most of my JW beliefs and having realized that most of it was nonsense, I spent the next 2 years or so as a "hardcore" atheist. I was very angry at my childhood and what the Witness cult took away from me. I was angry at God and religion and never passed up the chance to point out how ridiculous the whole idea of "organized" religion and belief in God was to me at this time. However, I never really could "shake off" this idea of deity no matter how much atheist stuff I studied or no matter how angry I got. This was a dark period of my life, it was so hard to socialize with my fellow college age youth and the dating game was near impossible for a child raised in a cult where no dating and very little socializing with kids my age, of any kind, was allowed. Eventually, this angry atheism stuff started leaving a bad taste in my mouth. I realized that I was acting no different than the angry fundamentalist-type Christians acted. The only difference between me and them was that they had God and a Bible and I had none. The attitude and the self-righteousness was exactly the same, I felt like a total fool! The fact is, many many ex-Jehovah's Witnesses become atheists.
I spent the next few years as what I would call "deist" or nominally spiritual. I accepted that there was a God, but I wasn't going to do anything about it. Eventually, after starting a career in sales, I was able to repair my social skills that I never really got to develop as a child and met my future wife.
After my wife got pregnant with our son, my interest in religion and Christianity started to come back to me. After a childhood of getting brainwashed that "Christendom" is full of evil liars, who are only after my money and will condemn their followers to Jehovah's wrath, I found it very hard to shake off this propaganda. Eventually, I mustered up the courage to attend one of these "evil" churches that "Satan controlled" and found that almost all of the propaganda was totally false. It was so exciting exploring real Christianity for the first time and visiting the various different churches and learning about their beliefs. In my year of visiting churches and searching, I never once heard any pastor ask for money or asked those in the pews to give more. What I heard and saw was people who loved God and wanted to honor God by donating their time to charity and to helping out in the community. Of course, organized religion has their fair share of hypocrites, however, this can be said of almost any type of belief system, including atheism and everything in between.
Eventually, I decided to join a "high church" Anglican parish and I've been there for the past few years. It's about as far away from JW worship you can get. I must confess, that that is probably what attracted me to it!
In conclusion, I'm not trying to talk down to atheists or am I trying to convince anybody to come to Jesus. Basically, there are a ton of former and current JWs who have a very similar story to mine and if my story is helpful or inspires anybody in any way, then it's all good. It's so very hard to find any sort of spirituality after leaving the JW cult, the damage left to a person's faith is incredible. I wasted years being angry and bitter at the Watchtower Society, for someone who lost his whole childhood to the JWs, I feel like they took another several years of my young adulthood, but it doesn't have to be like that. Everybody is going to be angry after leaving the JW cult, but nobody has to spend years being angry. Whenever you are ready, remember that Jesus is there waiting for you.
Please feel free to add any comments or ask any questions. My next post will focus on my journey into Anglicanism.
1. There is no trinity, but only the father (Jehovah is the name they give him).
2. Jesus was the Archangel Michael in heaven and lived as a perfect and sinless man while on earth as Jesus Christ.
3. Nobody goes to heaven except the 144,000 chosen Jehovah's Witnesses.
4. All will be destroyed in the apocalypse, except faithful Jehovah's Witnesses.
5. The surviving Jehovah's Witnesses will live on a paradise earth for eternity and will be immortal.
6. Any Jehovah's Witness who breaks their rules, questions their theology, or leaves is "disfellowshipped" from the congregation and must be "shunned" by all Jehovah's Witnesses, including family and friends.
7. Reading the material of any ex-Jehovah's Witness is strictly forbidden.
8. Jehovah's Witnesses worship in a church building called a "Kingdom Hall" and worship and bible studies are termed "meetings." These "meetings" are held three times a week and attendance is very very strongly encouraged.
9. The organization's theology is decided by a group called the "governing body" of Jehovah's Witnesses. These men are said to be spirit directed and they alone speak for Jehovah. This governing body is the head of the Watchtower Society, the producers of all Jehovah's Witness material.
10. Any extra activities that involve associating with those who are not Jehovah's Witnesses must be limited.
11. Jehovah's Witnesses do not celebrate any Christian Holidays because they are considered to be pagan in origin. Also, JWs do not stand up for the Pledge of Allegiance or National Anthem.
12. A Jehovah's Witness must never have a blood transfusion, even when faced with death.
13. Demons can attack you if you choose to watch bad movies, listen to bad music, engage in any sort of pagan rituals, talk bad about Jehovah, or have bad thoughts about Jehovah or his organization (Watchtower Society).
There is much more to the Jehovah's Witness cult than this, but understanding these basic principles will help those who read my story to understand what is going on and just how hard it is to be a Jehovah's Witness.
My story:
I've been out of the Jehovah's Witness cult for over ten years now. I got out when both of my parents got divorced and, subsequently, disfellowshipped. All this happened when I was about 17 years old. Both of my parents just up and left the religion and I had no real time to detox. I grew up never thinking that I was good enough to serve Jehovah, so I never got baptized, but for all intents and purposes, I was a Jehovah's Witness nearly my entire childhood. After my parents were disfellowshipped it took some time for me to accept that the JWs were not correct about many things.
Like many Jehovah's Witness youth, I couldn't "hang out" with any of my friends at school, everything I listened to, read, or watched was strictly monitored. I could not play in any sports or join any after school activities. I couldn't go to any of the school dances or sporting events. I had to go to all of the meetings and study all of the materials before hand on top of all the homework I had to do. I lived in a state of near constant fear that Jehovah would destroy me on Judgement Day because I wasn't good enough. I worried almost every night that demons might try to harm me because I had "bad" thoughts about Jehovah and the Watchtower Society. I'm always amused at those who call all organized religion "cults," I would have given anything to have been raised in the "Methodist" or "Lutheran" cults that many of my school friends were raised in!! It amazes me just how many of us kids who were raised in this cult have the same story of our childhood. Thankfully, none of the kids I grew up with and went to school with were not that bad to deal with. That said, having to sit down during the Pledge of Allegiance and National Anthem was terribly embarrassing. Also humiliating was the fact that when the other children sang Christmas songs in music class, I had to sit at a table, sometimes by myself, while the other kids sang these songs. I could not participate in any holiday parties or any of the school plays. It's still painful to this day to think of all the experiences that I missed that the average kid takes for granted.
After a few years of "detoxing" most of my JW beliefs and having realized that most of it was nonsense, I spent the next 2 years or so as a "hardcore" atheist. I was very angry at my childhood and what the Witness cult took away from me. I was angry at God and religion and never passed up the chance to point out how ridiculous the whole idea of "organized" religion and belief in God was to me at this time. However, I never really could "shake off" this idea of deity no matter how much atheist stuff I studied or no matter how angry I got. This was a dark period of my life, it was so hard to socialize with my fellow college age youth and the dating game was near impossible for a child raised in a cult where no dating and very little socializing with kids my age, of any kind, was allowed. Eventually, this angry atheism stuff started leaving a bad taste in my mouth. I realized that I was acting no different than the angry fundamentalist-type Christians acted. The only difference between me and them was that they had God and a Bible and I had none. The attitude and the self-righteousness was exactly the same, I felt like a total fool! The fact is, many many ex-Jehovah's Witnesses become atheists.
I spent the next few years as what I would call "deist" or nominally spiritual. I accepted that there was a God, but I wasn't going to do anything about it. Eventually, after starting a career in sales, I was able to repair my social skills that I never really got to develop as a child and met my future wife.
After my wife got pregnant with our son, my interest in religion and Christianity started to come back to me. After a childhood of getting brainwashed that "Christendom" is full of evil liars, who are only after my money and will condemn their followers to Jehovah's wrath, I found it very hard to shake off this propaganda. Eventually, I mustered up the courage to attend one of these "evil" churches that "Satan controlled" and found that almost all of the propaganda was totally false. It was so exciting exploring real Christianity for the first time and visiting the various different churches and learning about their beliefs. In my year of visiting churches and searching, I never once heard any pastor ask for money or asked those in the pews to give more. What I heard and saw was people who loved God and wanted to honor God by donating their time to charity and to helping out in the community. Of course, organized religion has their fair share of hypocrites, however, this can be said of almost any type of belief system, including atheism and everything in between.
Eventually, I decided to join a "high church" Anglican parish and I've been there for the past few years. It's about as far away from JW worship you can get. I must confess, that that is probably what attracted me to it!
In conclusion, I'm not trying to talk down to atheists or am I trying to convince anybody to come to Jesus. Basically, there are a ton of former and current JWs who have a very similar story to mine and if my story is helpful or inspires anybody in any way, then it's all good. It's so very hard to find any sort of spirituality after leaving the JW cult, the damage left to a person's faith is incredible. I wasted years being angry and bitter at the Watchtower Society, for someone who lost his whole childhood to the JWs, I feel like they took another several years of my young adulthood, but it doesn't have to be like that. Everybody is going to be angry after leaving the JW cult, but nobody has to spend years being angry. Whenever you are ready, remember that Jesus is there waiting for you.
Please feel free to add any comments or ask any questions. My next post will focus on my journey into Anglicanism.
Welcome to the Blog!
Hello, thanks for visiting my blog. The purpose of this blog is to explore and discuss all things Anglican. However, this blog is not just limited to Anglicanism, but to Christianity in general and reflecting on my journey out of the Jehovah's Witness cult and, eventually, into the Anglican Church (called the "Episcopal Church" here in the United States).
If you have any suggestions, questions, or ideas for topics that you'd like to see discussed, don't hesitate to send an email to anglican.reflections@gmail.com
Again, thank you for visiting this page and reading this blog!
If you have any suggestions, questions, or ideas for topics that you'd like to see discussed, don't hesitate to send an email to anglican.reflections@gmail.com
Again, thank you for visiting this page and reading this blog!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)