Sermons

 October 26, 2014

Twentienth Sunday after Pentecost

READING

Art speaks to the senses in ways that are too complex and subtle to be able to fully define in words. We respond physically and emotionally to the colors, shapes, textures, rhythms, timbres, pitch, or other aspects of a painting, a song, a film in ways that are difficult to describe, but still very real.

Deborah Sokolove, Sanctifying Art

INTRODUCTION

When the Sacred Conversations on Race and Diversity Planning Group organized our first joint worship service last year, we focused on a social justice issue that both of our faith communities found pressing and ripe for multiracial, multicultural social action—the myriad injustices surrounding our system and practice of mass incarceration.  This year we decided that our communities shared something else in common, the creation and appreciation of art.  So we thought we would lift the theme of creativity’s role in our spiritual journey.

Ooctober 19, 2014

Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost

Just a few minutes ago, we stood in a circle – so we could see each other – and celebrated recommitment as Seekers for the 39^th time. Recommitment to Seekers has happened on the third Sunday of October each year since 1976, as an opportunity to step into the circle of belonging, believing, knowing, that we are part of a living body of Christ.

 Most of us were not here in the beginning. Those who were have seen many changes. But at the core, there is still our call to be church.  And every year, we have a new understanding of what that means.

October 12, 2014

Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost

I want to start today by expressing our gratitude for all the ways that Seekers has supported our renewal efforts at The Potter’s House. At every step you have been with us, offering your wisdom and generosity. From bringing a reconciling spirit to the tough conversations at the Ecumenical Council, to offering guidance on how to provide for major renovations, to all the prayers and gifts given on our behalf, it is not hyperbole to say that this renewal would not be possible without you. As we prepare to re-open in the New Year, we give thanks to God for Seekers Church and the strong bond we feel with our sister community here on Carroll St. From all of us on Columbia Rd., thank you. We look forward to sharing more with you and doing some dreaming together in our discussion time following the service.

October 5, 2014

Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost

I have come to a place in my journey that seems to reflect Paul’s experience in this week’s Epistle reading: “Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.”

I find myself in a wondering how I can continue to mature (or grow old) in Seekers Church. What’s the question

          Can I still be a part of Seekers when I am no longer part of the SLT?  

     What can I do to find clearer understanding of my emerging place in Seeker

     How can I get some rest?

September 28, 2014

Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost

Complaining and Call

        I’m one of these folks that generally preach about once a year and celebration circle has been trying to get me to pony up to this place for a few months now. I am not sure where I built in that the preacher’s goal here at Seekers is to connect to the scripture, connect to your own personal story and connect to the life of Seekers. Oh, and during recommitment season is particularly helpful to talk about that somehow.  That is a lot to accomplish within 2500 words, but I will try.