The web has finally come to First Parish Federated Church. With determination and generosity four folks have worked together to prepare our web site which will soon go public. The literature is very clear that the internet is the best source of information for people who are looking for anything...including a church.
Of course, our web site will always be a work in progress because we have to keep up with the acitivities, missions, and ministries here. Life changes from day to day. I came to this blog today having thought of lots of exciting things to say as I pondered this moment for the past few weeks. I sat down this afternoon and ... blank. I drew a blank. I don't know if perhaps it is blogfright--little known cousin of "stage fright."
What shall I say that a first-time reader or a church researcher might find intriquing, helpful or curious enough to come on down here for one of our suppers or worship or perhaps even a Bible study.
One of the biggest events that is on my mind these days is our upcoming Lenten series on William Paul Young's fiction bestseller, The Shack.
Someone said to me the other night, "I think it's really gutsy that we're doing this book!" I think it is, too. The Shack is not a stranger to controversy in religious circles. Some pastors have forbidden their parishioners to read it, others have said, "read it atyour own peril." Others have a great admiration for the book and what Young has tried to do with his story.
I find that the text could very well be the place where those who are suspicious of or strangers to God feel invited to come in. Those well-versed in doctrine and tradition also have some thought-provoking questions and attempts to answer to the profound mysteries of God and the Trinity.
The text addresses in a fictional (though seemingly all too real) format, the question of "Where is God in the midst of unspeakable pain?" The answer to this question has sent many a believer back to the forest to commune with nature, giving up on any kind of higher power.
Higher power is a mystery that no human being can understand fully; yet, I think this book takes an evocative approach to helping seekers and believers alike to approach God in a relationship of unconditional belovedness.
The answers given by "Papa" (God) will prompt the deepest discussions and perhaps even some of the rawest emotions. I have no doubt, however, that every one of us who engages this book and one another will be far richer for the experience of being in fellowship with one another while sharing in the midst of Holy Presence.
Join us at the Simple Supper, beginning 5:30 pm on March 4. You don't want to miss this one.
Peace,
Rev Donna
