Beginning June 1, I will preach a series of six sermons on what's known as the Disciples Affirmation or the Preamble.We use this text in worship as an affirmation of faith, and I have wanted to spend a little more time with it for quite a while: I love how it breaks open the often misunderstood "I believe" into a colorful, multi-facetted "we confess, proclaim, accept, rejoice, celebrate, receive..." Every time I read it, I hear an invitation to join a conversation and a particular way of life.
This is not a statement of beliefs that declares, "This is how things are, and here is where you sign." It sounds a lot more like, "Allow us to introduce ourselves."
When we think about who we are, or talk about who we are to be, we find ourselves returning again and again to the practices and conversations outlined in these 171 words. This is how we strive to live in relationship with God, with other people, and with the world.
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i look forward to the series... any chance it'll be made available digitally since i'll miss the second sunday?
ReplyDeleteI'm thinking about posting the entire series online.
ReplyDeleteThomas: Thanks so much for offering your book version thru DCHS Polar Star Press. I hope you will seriously consider posting chapter audio podcasts as well at the DCHS site (and Vine Street at Ning, your blog, the Viine Street congregational site, as well). Also, please ask Nancy to look at the "Media Closet" at DCHS -- there is SO MUCH material there in analog audio format which could be made available at the DCHS site. As the world moves to cell phone (iPod, iPhone) delivery and more folks use CDs while commuting in rush hour and trips, there is a wonderful opportunity to distribute historical and theological materials. I think the Board will need to make this a priority in order for the budget to be directed there. Ed
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