Hello, fellow pilgrims.In the Episcopal Church (as part of the Anglican Communion), we follow a three-year calendar of readings called a Lectionary.This three-year cycle takes us through most of the Bible: 80-90% of the Old Testament, all of the Psalms, and most of the Epistles (letters) and Gospels (written by Mark, Matthew, Luke, & John).On top of that, our Book of Common Prayer was created using scripture and is considered “the Bible arranged for worship.” So, if you have been a regularly attending member of this church for three years, you’ve read most of the Bible, perhaps without even realizing it. Pretty cool, right?! If you would like to view the lectionary as a document, you may either view it online (https://lectionarypage.net) or in the Book of Common Prayer (pp887-1000 or https://bcponline.org).
All of that noted, this Fall, we will begin Bible Study again, but it will be in the form of theological reflection. What does this mean? Theological reflection is based on the idea that every Christian is a theologian. It is the intentional process of thinking critically and prayerfully about God, the Bible, and our Christian faith in order to discern God’s Will in our daily lives. It connects our faith and our lives, scripture and our actions.
It is both an educational and a formational tool that can help us explore life’s challenges, apply the wisdom of Scripture and tradition, and respond thoughtfully to cultural, pastoral, or personal issues within a communal context. It helps us as we help others for Christ’s sake and for the common good. And it is central to a healthy and faithful pilgrimage.
Stay tuned for Bible Study—Theological Reflection to begin on October 11th Sundays at 12noon.
I look forward to discerning scripture together.
Remember:
Every pilgrim arrives by a different road, and we all converge at Christ.
You are Beautiful and you are Beloved.
Angela+