So, maybe you are somewhat new (or not and just confused - it's ok, we are, too , sometimes) to the "fuss" currently occurring in the Episcopal Church and the wider Anglican Communion (of which the Episcopal Church is a branch). There are some at my own church, where education about this very issue has been a core issue, who remain somehow "in the dark" about the history of these issues and the depth of these issues...and the implications of these issues.
I'd like to share some of the articles I've read lately that I feel are low on anglican jargon, which frankly confuses me, and help explain the issues at hand. I'll be sharing them as they pass across my "desk" in the coming weeks. The time is getting very near that major decisions will be made and chips will fall where they may.
You may think, "So what? I'm not Anglican or Episcopalian." That may be true, these troubles aren't yours....yet. However, let me just remind you that the Anglican church decided to approve birth control for married couples in 1933...there are very few (especially mainline) denominations that have not fallen into lock-step with that decision. (That may be a biased example, but it is what it is.) I pray that the decisions currently made by our mother church (ECUSA now known as TEC) will never affect your churches...and maybe they won't.
But in the meantime, perhaps you'll pray for those of us standing for biblical authority. We are facing losing our beloved churches (only buildings, yes - but some of these have been attended by families for generations), being personally sued by our denomination, and our congregations being splintered as we search for new church homes. Have no doubt, we know all this can be born for Christ! But it is painful....
Perhaps you'll take a moment or two to read the first article I'd like to share - a revealing personal history of a fellow Episcopalian and her activity in the denomination. You'll know better how to pray for your fellow Christians. Thank you for going to the throne room for us!
If you are praying for us, I'd love for you to leave a comment. Sometimes we feel like our struggle goes unnoticed, so it would be encouraging beyond words to know that you care enough to pray and comment. Thank you.
Friday, August 10, 2007
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Posts
3 comments:
Your struggle has definitely not gone unnoticed. It is painful to see our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ suffering for the Truth. While I have followed some of this over the years, I will admit that I have not prayed as I should.
Praying for your struggles. Our church is no stranger to problems and we suffered a pretty serious blow about a year ago. I'm happy to report that, SLOWLY, we are healing and trying to keep our hearts and minds pure. It is a painful thing when these things happen. Just be enocuraged that you will recover, despite how deeply cut and bruised you may feel.
Praying for you and for all who, like you, have taken on the difficult task of standing against the tide. Never easy, but you do follow in the steps of the Lord. Blessings to you and yours.
Post a Comment