Freedom in Tension - PROTESTANT AND CATHOLIC

Ahh, finally an expression of Christianity which I'm at home in. Seriously, I have traversed many a tradition within the Christian Church in my life (Methodist, Nazarene, Lutheran/Charasmatic, Mennonite, Non-denom., Presbyterian, Anglican and a good shoulder rub with Catholicism), but for all it's lifelessness at times, the Church of Ireland has felt the most like home. It's a strange animal, occupying the 'Via Media' in Christian expression, and I feel a sense of affinity for it. I'm sure much of it has to do with the process of maturation in my life (some could say it's another phase), but I do love this Church. It is part of a larger body within the Anglican Communion which is 70 million strong and which has so much diversity. From lethargic to charismatic, liturgical to 'dance revolution', reflective to shouts of praise - it's beautiful. Given, there are bound to be heresies as well (and there are in my humble opinion), but that is no reason to 'jump ship' - rather, a 'truth in love' engagement is required. I am also quite partial to the early Irish (Celtic) roots from which this church springs. The older I become the more I sense that there is salvation in tension, in the area between extremes known as balance (which, coincidentally is so elusive). God has big plans yet for His Church in this little island on the edge of the world . . . May we all know our deep, deep hunger for Him who is Life to the full! Click here for more - very interesting info - on the Church of Ireland (some of which you may have never imagined before!) and scroll down to the topical links.

Labels: Anglican Communion, celtic christianity, church of Ireland, journey

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A Friend to Artists

For the last two years I have had the privilege of getting to know a man called Michael Guido. 'Guido' as he's better known, has been a friend to those in the Arts & Entertainment industry for over 20+ years. He's a pastor of sorts and a spiritual companion. Guido is a pioneer in the 'road pastor' tradition - supporting groups like Jars of Clay , dc Talk , POD , Michael W. Smith , Switchfoot and others. He, his wife Celeste and indeed his entire family have given so much for the calling on their lives to support, challenge and encourage artists and their families in their relationship with Christ. Please pray for the Guidos if you're the praying type. Pray for protection, financial support, joy and an overriding sense of God's clear calling on their ministry - PR Ministries . The PR stands for 'Persuing Relationships'. Every time we speak, Guido challenges me with his intense love for God and his knowledge of the Scriptures. H

Travels across the Emerald Isle

Hello to anyone who may be reading this! I thought it might be 'schwing' to put Ireland up on the blog show you where my travels take me. Here's the key: Green house - where we currently live in N. Ireland / Red house - where we hope to move to in Co. Tipperary in January '06 / Yellow asterix - places I'll be making stops for work or play / Red line - my route on the way (note: houses not shown to scale). This weekend (in fact, in 30 minutes!) I'm heading to the town of Portlaoise in Co. Laois ( 1st asterix ) for a get-together with the area Youth Council tonight. Tomorrow morning CIYD is hosting a training session for all those who wish to attend Anois as a youth leader. Later tomorrow night I'll be delivering a training session in Fermoy, Co. Cork ( 2nd asterix) for a group of leaders who are planning on running the Quest course to reach teens in the diocese. I'll leave the Cork area on Sunday morning and make my way home to my

Make shift Drive-In Theatre

I had it on my mind for months. I wanted to fully take advantage of the summer months here in Ireland and do something the local young people would enjoy . . a make shift drive-in theatre. I had to wait until the timing was right for weather, holidays ( vacations ), work schedule and family schedule before I could proceed. I thought I had planned it on a good night ( although Christy says otherwise! ). The weather had been perfect - sunny, very warm and no gale-force winds. So in my back garden ( yard ), I used a bed sheet, some dynamic hiking cord, my laptop, projector and a borrowed portable stereo - it was amazing. The night was clear and starry, the wind was minimal and more importantly - it was dry. I had so much fun! From the printing of the invitations to the set-up . . how great! We showed The Incredibles ( for free of course! ) and it was well worth it. I'll defintely do it again, although next time it'll have to be in County Tipperary .

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