Categories: uncategorized
Date: 12 June 2012 15:18:28
Today hasn't been the easiest in the world to be a Christian. The CofE response to the government consultation was wordy, cold and complex - in many ways a complete contrast to the Methodist response although some of the conclusions and responses to specific questions raised in the consultation were similar. The world of Twitter and FB has been giving hurt, angry and bitter responses to the CofE in return.
I for my part did something I don't do - lumbered into Durham Cathedral part way through the lunch time service (deciding I could resist the kick up the backside I was getting inside my head no more) and took communion there. For me doing that was a way reminding myself and engaging in a symbolic act that said, "I don't like the language they used, I don't agree with their conclusions but I am still part of the wider body of the church and I am called to love them." It sort of helped.....but I was still in a place where whilst loving God I was not over positive about being part of that body today.
Then I got home and opened the post. There was a card with a beautiful picture of a church door open with the outside showing - the text within it was from Revelation chapter 3 verse 8: "Behold I have opened a door before you which no-one can close." The picture is taken from the perspective of being within the church but not being trapped by it. It was the same card as my presbyter had given me whilst I was at candidates committee and has become a powerful symbol for me of the journey I am on. Today it was a picture I really needed to see.
This was a goodbye card from the church I have been a member of in Durham during my time here. It was signed by loads of people and overwhelmed me to tears. This card was about love and good wishes and in the mist of the nonsense was overwhelming in its message of love and acceptance.