In Quest of the Holy Grail
The church has established all kinds of rules and regulations and then declared them sacred and infallible. The church has kidnaped and perverted the meal of grace and restoration - - in the name of God.
"The God Box"
“God Box” people can be found in every faith group. There are mega and mini churches taking in big bucks by telling their congregations that they have God in a box and here is what God looks like, says and does, and that is that and there is nothing further you need to know!
“A Calling from God”
Once you have been called out and set aside by the church and assumed the pedestal of leadership - - Hold tight to the pebble and do not drop it! Can we trust you to do that?
The Judicial Council Turns Right
It its current ruling the Council said: "In our considered opinion, it is time for the issues addressed in Decision 1032 to now be debated by The United Methodist Church as is occurring" The wagons are beginning to circle, yet again, as we hunker down and prepare for the 2008 General Conference. The fabric and fibre, of the movement of a people called Methodist, have survived the ravages of conflict before - - and, by the Grace of God, will again!
Will the Fires Burn - - Again?
This big old ship we call The United Methodist Church will be hard to turn around. But turn it around we must. The need for younger clergy and younger members will be met or we will run ashore - - looking for a lifeline! Yes we are a graying church. And we are a dying church. And we will be until the gospel fires burn again in our heart and in our places of worship
Read Jim Lane's UMC.org article |