By Carol Barron Singing is one of our most ancient urges. It connects us to our tribal past and fills us with happiness. When we sing, our whole body is the instrument. Our ribcage vibrates, our airways hum, musical vibrations move through our body and alters our physical and emotional landscape and a light goes … Continued
Even though we may not all agree what prayer actually is, as a church community that doesn’t stop us from praying together – tolerant of each other’s understanding. Here is one person’s view, which also offers an interesting exploration of both the scientific and spiritual value of prayer and meditation. (And there are some fascinating … Continued
Photo credit: The Press In 2018 Rob Ferguson reflected on his time as Durham Street Methodists’ inaugural chaplain to the StreeTs, using the three Bible readings set for that Sunday. There have been times in the last two and a bit years of walking Christchurch’s often-munted streets when I’ve wondered what I ever thought I … Continued
Based on the writings of Dave Barnhart (www.saintjunia.org) What do Matthew, Mark, Luke, Paul, James and Peter all agree on? “If you were to ask most contemporary Christians, ‘What verse best sums up the message of the early church?”, they would have no problem telling you that it is John 3:16: “For God so loved … Continued
It’s a great feeling to be able to give – to make our contribution. And everyone should have the opportunity to give as they are able. But that is miles away from pressuring already-stretched people into giving or shaming people to go under or have to take out usurious loans just to survive. It is … Continued
Nathan Jennings used to be adamantly opposed to the ‘gay lifestyle’. He now considers himself LGBTQ-affirming, and an ally to the community. Why the change? Well, he blames Jesus. The more he studied the Bible and learned about Jesus and what it means to be truly human, the more he discovered that love is at … Continued
Have you ever sat in church and drifted off when the announcements seemed to go on for ever, or wished we could get started on the real stuff? I want to suggest something radical — that the announcements (at their best) are us creating church together. They need not be an intermission or an ad-break … Continued