Churches from every nation and persuasion have responded quickly to the pandemic precautions. It’s inspiring. It’s powerful. It’s a witness to the truth that the church will never die. And it testifies to the dictum that the church is reformed and continues to do so. Many churches which are doing things differently have been sharing their practices … Read more
“Pragmatism or principle” was the duelling dynamic for commissioners as we wrestled with how we would rank the four pathways proposed by the Special Committee of Former Moderators. For many who hold onto classical theology, only two pathways – ‘A’ (tradition) and ‘C’ (three streams) – were seriously considered. ‘B’ (inclusion) and ‘D’ (accommodation) were non starters. … Read More
Requiem (noun) — 1) A Mass for the repose of the souls of the dead. 2) A musical composition setting parts of a requiem Mass, or of a similar character. 3) An act or token of remembrance. It’s the third definition which fits Rev. Don MacLeod’s latest published writing. An almost-legendary figure in the PCC … Read more
It is the work of the Spirit to create faith. Faith is confidence and trust that the benefits of Christ are mine, that what happened back on the cross and at the empty tomb achieved salvation and that it applies to me here and now. The Holy Spirit is the means by which this salvation reaches even us. … Read More
A recent survey from Renewal Fellowship asked readers where their minds were at four months after the historic change in doctrine of the Presbyterian Church in Canada (PCC). It was hardly a scientific survey, but the responses mirrored what we’ve been hearing in conversations: In general, “We are staying in the PCC for now, while … Read more
A review of “Canoeing the Mountains – Christian Leadership in Uncharted Territory” by Tod Bolsinger. Canoeing the Mountains Truth be told, I dismissed this book without reading a single page. It was a freebie, handed out at the PCC Pastor’s Conference back in 2019, which screamed “remainder bin.” And the title — way too cute. … Read more
Human sexuality issues are front and centre for the Presbyterian Church in Canada. There will be study and dialogue at every level of the church and eventually decisions made concerning the numerous overtures forwarded to our General Assembly this past June. There will be votes by commissioners in the coming years together with votes in … Read more
In recent weeks, many Canadian provinces have ended their mask mandates. For the first time in almost two years, we see each other’s faces in grocery stores and perhaps also in church. And yet for the most part there is no feeling of liberation or great cry of joy. To be sure, we like it. … Read more
Millennials and the church today. Why aren’t millennials going to church? Where are all of the young adults? How is the church going to survive in the coming years with a missing generation? Many have tackled these questions, including pastors, sociologists, and research study groups. Some argue that millennials view the church as hypocritical and … Read more
In fellowship and prayer. I had the privilege of attending General Assembly last month as a visitor in my role with the Renewal Fellowship. Let me share some highlights of my time there. I experienced General Assembly in WORSHIP. General Assembly 141 was kicked off with wonderful opening worship that included uplifting singing and an … Read more