In today's Gospel reading from John 15:26-27 and John 16:4-15, Jesus promises that the Holy Spirit will be with the disciples. The word used for the Holy Spirit here is translated as Advocate, but it can also mean Helper or Comforter. God doesn't leave us alone — the Advocate is always with us to comfort, guide, and help us in all things.
We can't take anything with us where we're going after the end of this life. All that will be left is the legacy of love, forgiveness, and mercy we showed to others.
You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. 🌟 We warmly invite women who are exploring their gender journey and those seeking to understand the depth of God's love to join us. Our community is a safe and inclusive space where you will be embraced with open hearts and minds. Experience the profound love and acceptance that awaits you. 💖 Contact us free scheduled counseling: Register: Anne Ranes: +63 921 547 9381 https://l1nq.com/WLivingfree #InclusiveCommunity #GodsLove #TruthAndFreedom #SupportAndLove 🌟 #LifeHealingChoices #HopeChoice #RickWarren #GenderEquality #GenderIdentity #InclusiveFaith #FaithJourney #SpiritualGuidance #LoveAndAcceptance #FaithInclusion #LGBTQFaith #TransInclusion #LoveIsLove #FaithAndIdentity #EmbraceDiversity #InclusiveSpirituality #LoveWithoutJudgment #SpiritualGrowth #HopeAndHealing #FaithCommunity
Self-compassion means releasing ourselves from unreasonable standards of perfection and accepting ourselves in all our Beloved humanness. As Dr. Kristin Neff writes, "With self-compassion, we give ourselves the same kindness and support we’d give to a good friend."
Lord, Let my life be translucent. Let your light shine through my fragility so the world might see your beauty. Let my flaws become frames of hope so that others might know that failure is not fatal. Give me an honest soul, where uncertainty is not hidden but acknowledged. May my scars speak of your healing. Let me value vulnerability above facade. Help me trust you with my ‘what ifs’. Help me live in the beauty of the next breath, given to me as a gift rather than as a right. My life is not perfect, but you are, so remind me that you do not seek perfection, you seek humility and honesty. Grace me with humility and honesty, Lord. Mark my life with holiness, faithfulness and obedience. Trace your grace on the fabric of my life with your gentle, tender touch. Amen. #Niteblessings
Today is International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia, a day dedicated to raising awareness about the discrimination faced by 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals worldwide. In many Christian contexts, this challenge can be particularly profound. Many 2SLGBTQIA+ Christians experience alienation and rejection from their faith communities, places that should embody love, affirmation, and solidarity. The pain of being marginalized by one’s own spiritual family is deep, affecting both faith and identity. At The Rainbow Well, we are committed to the work of addressing religious-based harm to 2SLGBTQIA+ people, as well as equipping people through resources & support to embrace a truly affirming faith. We believe in the inherent dignity and worth of all individuals, grounded in the love and teachings of Jesus Christ. Our mission is to foster an environment of understanding, support, and inclusivity within the Christian community. Join us in our dedication to dismantling prejudice and building bridges of love and acceptance. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we can embody the true spirit of Christ’s message: love one another as I have loved you. #IDAHOTB #LoveIsLove #InclusiveFaith #RainbowWell
Our words can tear down, or they can build up. Choose to be encouraging and supportive of others as they grow into the people God made them to be!
“Can you have more than one feeling at a time? Is it possible to be loving and confused at the same time?" "Yes! You can love God and feel confused too" — overheard at #riverkids #JesusandPeter #rivernyc #spirituality #therivernyc #faithcommunity #Jesuscentered #inclusivechurch #newyorkchurch #nycchurches #lgbtqchurch #lgbtqchristians #affirmingchurch #inclusivefaith #progressivechurches #progressivechildrenministry #progressivechristianity #womenpastors #diversechurch #affirmingchurch #womenleaders #newyorkchurches #affirmingchurches #postevangelical #nondenominational
Come join us this Sunday as the birth of church is celebrated around the world! #progressivechristianity #inclusivefaith #radicalwelcome #radicallove #allarewelcome #everyonebelongs #communityofchrist #nojusticenofaith #nolovenojustice #toronto #torontochurch #jesus #jesuswasnotwhite #nojusticenopeace #peaceofchrist #honourtreaties #indigenoussolidarity #lgbqt #safespace #affirmingcongregation #transsafespace #faithjusticearts #queerchurch
At home, Silas can be whoever they want to be--a movie star, an astronaut, a ballerina, or a baker! But Silas doesn't like Sundays, when they have to dress nice and sit still in church. Join Silas on a journey to find a way to be who they want to be every day of the week! Out June 4! . . . #bookstagram #kidsbooks #picturebook #lgbtqia #lgbt #inclusivebooks #lgbtquiabooks #lgbtbooks #inclusivechurch #inclusivefaith #gender #genderidentity @magicianactor
🌈 Join us for the captivating conclusion of our two-part webinar series, "Inherent Infinite Dignity of our Tran(s)iblings: A Response to Dignitas Infinita," hosted by the GNRC Contemplative Spiritual Formation Committee! 🌟 Don't miss this extraordinary opportunity. Let's come together to affirm our commitment to diversity and inclusion within our faith. 🗓 Date: Saturday, May 18, 2024 ⏰ 10 AM Toronto/New York ⏰ 3 PM London 🎤 Featuring Inspiring Speakers: Latrell Felix, activist and sociology scholar. Gene Tan, trailblazer and rights advocate. 🌐 How to Join: Choose your preferred way to participate! Meet us via Zoom or live at the Meditation Chapel (Gaia Chapel). Register and follow the simple steps to join our vibrant community. 🔗 All event details and registration options can be found via the link in our bio. #RainbowCatholics #TransRightsAreHumanRights #InclusiveFaith #SpiritualWebinar #LGBTQ
"In a world that constantly asks us to make up our minds about other people, a nonjudgmental presence seems nearly impossible. But it is one of the most beautiful fruits of a deep spiritual life and will be easily recognized by those who long for reconciliation." —Henri Nouwen
Thanks for worshiping with us last Sunday. Hope to see you this Sunday! #LastSundayWorship #rivernyc #spirituality #therivernyc #faithcommunity #Jesuscentered #inclusivechurch #newyorkchurch #nycchurches #lgbtqchurch #lgbtqchristians #affirmingchurch #inclusivefaith #progressivechurches #progressivechildrenministry #progressivechristianity #womenpastors #diversechurch #affirmingchurch #womenleaders #newyorkchurches #affirmingchurches #postevangelical #nondenominational
This Sunday! The birth of the church!! #progressivechristianity #inclusivefaith #radicalwelcome #radicallove #allarewelcome #everyonebelongs #communityofchrist #nojusticenofaith #nolovenojustice #toronto #torontochurch #jesus #jesuswasnotwhite #nojusticenopeace #peaceofchrist #honourtreaties #indigenoussolidarity #lgbqt #safespace #affirmingcongregation #transsafespace #faithjusticearts #queerchurch #pentecost
"I bless you with the rising of the sun upon the crest of your hill. I bless the snow to melt where bulbs know the time has arrived. I bless the encrusted rivers of soul to succumb to spring's thaw. I bless the tired in you to be cosy in blankets by the fire. I bless you to breathe in the scent of the preparations of change and the sound of your most loved ones to fill the passages of your mind. I bless you with the rest that arrives when you least expect it and fills you with wellness of being mixed with lavender and herbs and prayers. I bless you to know what it is that takes place when you are aligned with a time of beginnings." —Jenneth Graser, A Blessing on Your Days
"We all need each other and are dependent upon each other's work...we are all interconnected and all of our contributions impact each other's ability to flourish." (Alison Noll, 5/12/24) Watch our full sermon on our Youtube channel: RiverNYCChurch #rivernyc #spirituality #therivernyc #faithcommunity #Jesuscentered #inclusivechurch #newyorkchurch #nycchurches #lgbtqchurch #lgbtqchristians #affirmingchurch #inclusivefaith #progressivechurches #progressivechildrenministry #progressivechristianity #femaleleaders #womenpastors #diversechurch #affirmingchurch #womenleaders #newyorkchurches #affirmingchurches #postevangelical #nondenominational #tribeca
Come celebrate and help support our future as we remember our past!! #progressivechristianity #inclusivefaith #radicalwelcome #radicallove #allarewelcome #everyonebelongs #communityofchrist #nojusticenofaith #nolovenojustice #toronto #torontochurch #jesus #jesuswasnotwhite #nojusticenopeace #peaceofchrist #honourtreaties #indigenoussolidarity #lgbqt #safespace #affirmingcongregation #transsafespace #faithjusticearts #queerchurch
We have come to the end of the journey that is ‘Sanctuary’. Check out our website to read The Poet’s full blog about this poem. This final poem is a response to questions we may all have asked ourselves at some point in our lives: where is the presence of God? And the answer may be closer than you think. What do you take away from this poem as it relates to communing with and dwelling with God? Tell us in the comments as you reflect on and share this poem! #brighton #onechurch #onechurchbrighton #christianity #faith #inclusivefaith #poetry #poem
Missed our service on Sunday, May 12th? You can still experience worship and hear the sermon delivered by Rev. Hillary, who has just returned from Parental Leave. Focusing on the Day Against the Phobias and drawing from Genesis 1:27 and Psalm 139, Rev. Hillary's message offers profound insights into understanding and acceptance. It's a must-see for anyone looking to deepen their faith and broaden their perspective. Watch the replay here (https://www.youtube.com/live/l-0-e-J38NE?si=BayKAMDyT3kJrdzx) #SymonsValleyUnited #DayAgainstPhobias #InclusiveFaith
"Some keep the Sabbath going to Church" by Emily Dickinson Some keep the Sabbath going to Church – I keep it, staying at Home – With a Bobolink for a Chorister – And an Orchard, for a Dome – Some keep the Sabbath in Surplice – I, just wear my Wings – And instead of tolling the Bell, for Church, Our little Sexton – sings. God preaches, a noted Clergyman – And the sermon is never long, So instead of getting to Heaven, at last – I’m going, all along.
Archbishop Oscar Romero was a vocal advocate for social justice and an end to political violence in El Salvador who was assassinated in 1980. He called people to love as God loves — with a radically inclusive love that disrupts all our preconceived notions of who's in and who's out. As he said, it is the force that will overcome the world.
What an honour for us to host this! #progressivechristianity #inclusivefaith #radicalwelcome #radicallove #allarewelcome #everyonebelongs #communityofchrist #nojusticenofaith #nolovenojustice #toronto #torontochurch #jesus #jesuswasnotwhite #nojusticenopeace #peaceofchrist #honourtreaties #indigenoussolidarity #lgbqt #safespace #affirmingcongregation #transsafespace #faithjusticearts #queerchurch
Weekend Reflections 1. Thinking of you all. Remembering the strength of mothers, seen and unseen. Cherish those who support and bring joy into your life. 2. Holding on tight in tough times. Grief and trauma may linger, but they also teach resilience. 3. Visited Renaissance Church, a diverse and welcoming space. Reflecting on spirituality and the power of worship. 4. Embrace honesty, learn from mistakes, and keep moving forward. #CelebrateMothers #Gratitude #StrengthInAdversity #InclusiveFaith #PersonalGrowth
Mark your calendar for our next hybrid mini-retreat on Saturday, June 1st! Join us online via Zoom or in-person at St. Peter's Episcopal Church in Del Mar as we explore how we can navigate emotionally-charged conversations and divisive topics "Through the Eyes of Compassion. Tap the link in our bio to RSVP and let us know you'll be there.
In today's Gospel reading from John 17:6-19, Jesus prays for the disciples, that God would protect, guide, and "sanctify them in the truth" of God's word. "As you have sent me into the world," Jesus prays to the Father, "so I have sent them into the world."
2 Verses Centered around Family and Motherhood Happy Mother's Day!! . . #InclusiveFaith #DiscoverFaith #SpiritualGuidance #DivineDirection #BelieveInChrist #HeavenlyWisdom #NonDenominational #GracefulLiving #WalkInFaith #JesusSays #BiblicalWisdom #injesusname #ChristianTips #DivinePresence #GodlyLiving #HopeInChrist #christianfaith #biblequotes #tithing
Recently, our Editor-In-Chief, Dr. Vicki Otaruyina had the privilege of connecting with the team behind her.Bible at the US Christian Chamber of Commerce's Global Conference, and I was deeply moved by their passion and commitment to diversity and inclusion in faith. Theirs is a story of hope, resilience, and the transformative power of a single idea. In a world where representation matters, her.Bible stands as a beacon of inclusivity and empowerment. This innovative app, born out of a simple yet profound longing, is revolutionizing the way we engage with God's Word. Picture this: rush hour traffic, a familiar scene for many, becomes a sacred space for reflection and connection. It was during these moments of stillness amidst the chaos that the founder of her.Bible recognized a need that echoed in the hearts of countless women worldwide. In her quest for a more diverse and inclusive experience with audio Bibles, she found herself confronted with a glaring disparity – the lack of women's voices. Determined to fill this void, she embarked on a journey to create something truly remarkable: a modern English-language Bible narrated by women from diverse backgrounds. But her vision didn't stop there. Recognizing the power of technology to break down barriers, she sought to make this invaluable resource accessible to all, free of charge. Through her tireless efforts and unwavering dedication, her.Bible has become a catalyst for change, inspiring women leaders and reaching audiences across the globe. As we journey together towards a more inclusive future, let us draw inspiration from her.Bible and continue to amplify women's voices in all aspects of our faith. Together, we can build a world where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. Join the movement. Download her.Bible today and experience the beauty of Scripture through the voices of women who are changing the narrative, one word at a time. #herBIBLE #InclusiveFaith #EmpowerWomen #RepresentationMatters
Did you know @angelicaross has been pushing boundaries in the tech world? 🌱 She’s doing groundbreaking work with @transtechsocial, empowering trans, gender non-conforming, and non-binary individuals by providing skills and training in tech. A community where members can thrive in authenticity and mutual support. 🌈 Learn more about Angelica Ross in S2, E2 on #SecondSundayPodcast. #PRXBigQuestions #PRXPodcast #InclusiveTech #InclusiveFaith #LGBTQFaith
But I am like a green olive tree in the house of God. I trust in the steadfast love of God forever and ever. I will thank you forever because of what you have done. In the presence of the faithful I will proclaim your name, for it is good. —Psalm 52:8-9
Why do you follow Jesus? Why is the Jesus story, out of all the spiritual and religious traditions of the world, so compelling to you? As Rachel Held Evans wrote, "I am a Christian because the story of Jesus is the story I'm willing to risk being wrong about."
The ‘Sanctuary’ collection continues with the penultimate poem ‘5001’, through which The Poet brings us into the environment of One Church’s Community Meal. Check out our website to read The Poet’s full blog about this poem. Every third Sunday of the month, volunteers from the congregation gather every third to cook and serve hot meals to vulnerable people in Brighton’s local community, ensuring that they too can experience some sanctuary from life’s hardships. It is in this space of care, unconditional compassion and relief, sanctuary is made and shared, just as God shares the same with us when we need rest. Can you remember a time when you received help that seemed to come out of nowhere? What did receiving that kindness feel like? Where can you show that compassion to someone else this week? Tell us in the comments as you reflect on and share this poem! #brighton #onechurch #onechurchbrighton #christianity #faith #inclusivefaith #poetry #poem
John O’Donohue was an Irish priest and writer who connected Celtic and Christian traditions, especially through his reflections on the mystery and beauty of nature. He also wrote about the idea of "thresholds" — the space that marks a before and after, your old life and your new life, a past season and a new one. These moments can be daunting and full of uncertainty, but as John wrote, they are also moments to trust in the unfolding of God's plan.
Press pause and take time to reflect on the relationships in our lives with a pilina meditation led by Harvard clinical psychology fellow Jo Qina'au. Pilina is an indigenous Hawaiian concept that can describe the interconnectedness we share with others, woven together into something bigger than our individual selves. Tap the link in our bio to try it out now.
We are SO EXCITED that this beautiful, kind, inclusive, and heartwarming children's book, Silas on Sundays, releases in less than a month!!! Pre-order from @bobzbay bookstore for a signed copy (link in comment). . . . #bookstagram #kidsbooks #picturebook #lgbtqia #lgbt #inclusivebooks #lgbtquiabooks #lgbtbooks #inclusive #inclusivechurch #inclusivefaith #gender #genderidentity @magicianactor
🎙️Meet our second guest of S2, @angelicaross! A trailblazer in the LGBTQ+ community advocating on behalf of our trans sibliings 🌟 Angelica brings a powerful voice to the #SecondSundayPodcast. We promised you stories that transcend traditional boundaries—Angelica’s story does just that. She relives her journey with Buddhism and how it’s intricately linked to her understanding of identity and connection. 🌈✨ What are you waiting for family? Go tune in to S2, E2 found on any platform you can find podcasts. #PRXBigQuestions #PRXPodcast #InclusiveFaith #SpiritualJourney #QueerFaithStories
“There was a box in the middle of the table and inside it was FRIENDSHIP" — overheard at #riverkids #parableofthegreatfeast #imaginativeprayer #rivernyc #spirituality #therivernyc #faithcommunity #Jesuscentered #inclusivechurch #newyorkchurch #nycchurches #lgbtqchurch #lgbtqchristians #affirmingchurch #inclusivefaith #progressivechurches #progressivechildrenministry #progressivechristianity #womenpastors #diversechurch #affirmingchurch #womenleaders #newyorkchurches #affirmingchurches #postevangelical #nondenominational
"There are no ‘mistakes’ when it comes to God’s creation! Your Miracle 139 disability ministry will teach children with disabilities to love God, live with purpose and walk within their unique gifts and strengths" ~ Miracle 139 International #Miracle139 #DisabilityMinistry #GodsCreation #UniqueGifts #PurposeDriven #StrengthsBased #InclusiveFaith #EmpowermentForAll #nonprofit #LoveAndAcceptance #SpecialNeedsMinistry #InclusionQuotes #DisabilityAwareness #EqualityMatters #DiverseAbilities #EmpowerThroughInclusion #InclusiveCommunity #CelebrateDifferences #UnityInDiversity #InclusiveSociety #BreakBarriers
"We're all assigned a piece of garden, a corner of the universe that is ours to transform. Our corner of the universe is our own life—our relationships, our homes, our work, our current circumstances—exactly as they are. Every situation we find ourselves in is an opportunity, perfectly planned by the Holy Spirit, to teach love instead of fear." —Marianne Williamson
And a happy Ascension Day to all! #theskyisthelimit #progressivechristianity #inclusivefaith #radicalwelcome #radicallove #allarewelcome #everyonebelongs #communityofchrist #nojusticenofaith #nolovenojustice #toronto #torontochurch #jesus #jesuswasnotwhite #nojusticenopeace #peaceofchrist #honourtreaties #indigenoussolidarity #lgbqt #safespace #affirmingcongregation #transsafespace #faithjusticearts #queerchurch
“Ehyeh Asher Ehyeh: God is Becoming and So Are We” We are excited to invite you to a special virtual meditation sit next Wednesday, created specifically by and for the LGBTQ+ community and co-sponsored by @keshetlgbtqjews. This event will be a unique opportunity to honor, witness, and appreciate our queer bodies and minds just as they are. During this session, you’ll be guided by Rabbi Myriam Klotz and Rabbi Ari Lev Fornari, a senior rabbi at Kol Tzedek Congregation and a faculty member at SVARA: A Traditionally Radical Yeshiva. Rabbi Fornari, a white, queer, trans person of Ashkenazi and Italian descent, brings a rich background in meditative practices that calm the mind and warm the heart. What to Expect: Practice gentle awareness and release judgment Celebrate our shared humanity and the diversity within our community Engage in meditative practices that foster presence This session promises to be a transformative experience, providing a safe, welcoming space for those who identify as LGBTQ+ to connect and find solace in shared mindfulness. Secure Your Spot: RSVP for the free Zoom session at the link in our bio. Date: Next Wednesday, May 15 Time: 3 pm ET #lgbtq #lgbt #pride #transgender #queerjews #LGBTQSpirituality #MindfulTogether #TransJews #QueerJewishMindfulness #InclusiveFaith #LGBTQJews #TransTheology #QueerMeditation
Of all the gifts we can give to each other, perhaps the most precious is our understanding compassion. #compassion #humancompassion🙏 #compassionforallbeings #compassionforall #kindness #love #understanding #understandingcompassion #human #humansmatter #humanrights #UnitarianUniversalism #UU #Unitarian #Universalist #UUA (Unitarian Universalist Association) #Interfaith #Spirituality #ProgressiveFaith #SocialJustice #InclusiveFaith
#mayaangelou #diversity #beautyinstrength #beautyindiversity #love #justice #community #justicework #UnitarianUniversalism #UU #Unitarian #Universalist #UUA (Unitarian Universalist Association) #Interfaith #Spirituality #ProgressiveFaith #SocialJustice #InclusiveFaith
Justice has long been a key value for Unitarian Universalists, and our congregation in particular. How is our justice work rooted in love, and how does it help us to create community? #love #justice #community #justicework #UnitarianUniversalism #UU #Unitarian #Universalist #UUA (Unitarian Universalist Association) #Interfaith #Spirituality #ProgressiveFaith #SocialJustice #InclusiveFaith
#UnitarianUniversalism #UU #Unitarian #Universalist #UUA (Unitarian Universalist Association) #Interfaith #Spirituality #ProgressiveFaith #SocialJustice #InclusiveFaith
Join the San Diego American Indian Health Center for the 36th Annual Balboa Park Pow Wow this weekend! This event is a special cultural celebration open to all and will include dancing, singing, socializing, crafts, arts, and food. Details here: https://www.sdaihc.org/powwow/
Sometimes the best way to share the Good News of God's great love is through our actions — the way we love, forgive, and include others.
Thanks for worshiping with us last Sunday. Hope to see you this Sunday! #LastSundayWorship #rivernyc #spirituality #therivernyc #faithcommunity #Jesuscentered #inclusivechurch #newyorkchurch #nycchurches #lgbtqchurch #lgbtqchristians #affirmingchurch #inclusivefaith #progressivechurches #progressivechildrenministry #progressivechristianity #womenpastors #diversechurch #affirmingchurch #womenleaders #newyorkchurches #affirmingchurches #postevangelical #nondenominational
“Queer Religion Project”: A conversation and presentation with photographer Frances Marshall (@fmarshallphoto) and Quest trustee George White (@transcatholicteacher). The goal of this project is to force conversation between two of the greatest paradoxes that exist today: Queerness and Religion. As a queer atheist, Frances wanted to spotlight and celebrate prominent openly queer leaders in religion. These subjects risk so much personally in order to live in their truth and create positive change within the monotheistic religions. The subjects captured provide a safe space within institutions that historically have promoted queerphobia. To Register your interest in joining us for the event on Wednesday 22 May, 7pm (BST) time follow the link in our bio to our LinkTree which has a link to the registration page. #faithfullylgbt #queerreligion #allarewelcome #imagodei #inclusivefaith #coexist #faithfullyqueer
May 27, 2024: 135th Anniversary Fundraiser for Trinity-St. Paul's United Church! Your 20$ ticket gets you two wine tastings of top class Ontario wine, but more importantly, gives you access to a joyful evening of celebration, and a chance to take part in further fundraising. Ticket sales and auction receipts are going toward funding our Gospel-work at this church and will help secure our long term financial stability! Please come be a part of our vision! Ticket sales and further details can be found on our website. #progressivechristianity #inclusivefaith #radicalwelcome #radicallove #allarewelcome #everyonebelongs #communityofchrist #nojusticenofaith #nolovenojustice #toronto #torontochurch #jesus #jesuswasnotwhite #nojusticenopeace #peaceofchrist #honourtreaties #indigenoussolidarity #lgbqt #safespace #affirmingcongregation #transsafespace #faithjusticearts #queerchurch
"... nothing can seperate us from the love of God..." #progressivechristianity #inclusivefaith #radicalwelcome #radicallove #allarewelcome #everyonebelongs #communityofchrist #nojusticenofaith #nolovenojustice #toronto #torontochurch #jesus #jesuswasnotwhite #nojusticenopeace #peaceofchrist #honourtreaties #indigenoussolidarity #lgbqt #safespace #affirmingcongregation #transsafespace #faithjusticearts #queerchurch
Fittingly, the poem for the middle of this week is titled ‘Mid-Week Service’. Check out our website to read The Poet’s full blog about this poem. Throughout the week, One Church on Florence Road becomes Skylark Coffee café. In this space, The Poet encourages us to realise that sanctuary can be found in places we may often overlook as mundane. What are some seemingly ordinary places you visit often that give you a sense of relief? What can you learn about God’s rest and offer of retreat from those environments? Tell us in the comments as you reflect on and share this poem! #brighton #onechurch #onechurchbrighton #christianity #faith #inclusivefaith #poetry #poem
🕊️ Let's make love our defining characteristic! The church should be a beacon of love, welcoming everyone regardless of gender, race, or lifestyle. Together, let's spread love and acceptance in a world that needs it more than ever. #LoveAboveAll #InclusiveFaith #weareone #thealtar #joyce
Practicing forgiveness is one of the keys to living as Jesus did. Holding pain, resentment, and anger in our hearts will only lead to sin. How have you practiced forgiveness in your life lately? Comment below and let us know! . . . #InclusiveFaith #DiscoverFaith #SpiritualGuidance #DivineDirection #BelieveInChrist #HeavenlyWisdom #NonDenominational #GracefulLiving #WalkInFaith #JesusSays #BiblicalWisdom #injesusname #ChristianTips #DivinePresence #GodlyLiving #HopeInChrist #christianfaith #biblequotes #tithing
THIS SATURDAY! BELOVED Compassion Network and the Center for Engaged Compassion present: The Pulse of Life. Discover the power of compassion in transforming our world with this hybrid experiential learning event featuring contributors from the book The Pulse of Life, including Frank Rogers, Jr., Aizaiah G. Yong, Natasha Huang, Nancy Fowler, and Alane Daugherty. They'll share their insights and experiences on how the Compassion Practice can truly change our lives and communities. Register at the link in our bio!
Being inclusive isn't something we do because it's popular or easy — in fact, oftentimes, it's neither of those! But it's our calling as a Christian community that walks in the way of Jesus, who showed us that God's love is big enough for every single one of us.
I’ve heard this phrase countless times during my years as a pastor in various church settings. Each time it was spoken, it left a strange, sour taste in my mouth. The original quote from Max Lucado goes, “God loves you just the way you are, but He refuses to leave you there. He wants to make you like Jesus.” But often, that second part about becoming like Jesus wasn’t mentioned. It seemed like they’d stop after “He refuses to leave you there,” and then pivot to ways people needed to change to be accepted. More and more, I’ve noticed phrases like this being used not just to guide, but to exclude and even abuse. This misuse in the Church has to stop. #ChurchLife #SpiritualAbuse #FaithJourney #ChristianLiving #InclusiveFaith #ReligiousHarm #ChurchCulture #SpiritualHealing #ReformTheChurch #FaithTransformation #therecoveringpastor
Writing for the Christian market is a challenge. It presents difficulties that few other genres do. One of my least favorite challenges is navigating the strictness and inflexibility some members of the Christian writing community hold to. As Christian fiction writers, we are putting Christ's name on our writing. Writing a story that doesn't seek first to honor God is a poor representation of our faith. This means holding the bar HIGH in terms of quality and the content and being very prayerfully intentional about everything we put out. This does not mean smothering authenticity in favor of prosperity gospel Christianity where nothing that bad happens, no real consequences are given, and, of course, anyone who isn't a Christian is an almost comically irredeemable villain. Truth and honesty are vital to writing fiction. But so is compassion. So is grace. Our stories should reflect the variety of human experiences, acknowledging struggles and doubts and sins while offering hope and redemption. I used to be a black and white person and therefore a black and white reader. But the reason I was like that is because I was dealing with sins and lies about myself ... so I lashed out by casting blame and placing my own feelings of unworthiness on the books I wrote. But as I grew in the Lord and accepted His grace for my life, I became less strict. Not that my standards for the big no-nos like smut lowered, but I stopped judging stories for simply discussing adult topics when they were, in fact, adult fiction. I'd rather write fiction with grace AND truth, honesty AND empathy. ✨ ✨ ✨ #ChristianFiction #WritingCommunity #AuthorsOfFaith #InclusiveFaith #CompassionateWriting #ChristianReaders #FaithAndLiterature #GraceAndTruth #SpiritualJourney #InspiringStories #EmbracingDiversity #WritingWithLove #HighStandards #CreativeExpression #ChristianAuthors #FaithInWriting #InclusiveNarratives #GraceAndCompassion #WritersOfFaith #EmpathyInArt #FaithfulWriting #ChristianCommunity #DiversePerspectives #UpliftingStories #RedemptionInFiction #WritingWithIntegrity #LoveAndAcceptance #InspireAndEncourage #FaithAndCreativity
"Enjoy the fruits of your labor today, stop stressing so much, the Bible asks why, even at night their minds do not rest. It’s because we put too much meaning into work. Stop measuring each other over work, it doesn’t last, it’s not that big of a deal. Don’t let worries rob you of the joy of life today. What’s important is you, not your job. So yes, work hard. Every work is sacred. But, don’t stress as if it determines our worth." (Charles Park, 5/5/24) #rivernyc #spirituality #therivernyc #faithcommunity #Jesuscentered #inclusivechurch #newyorkchurch #nycchurches #lgbtqchurch #lgbtqchristians #affirmingchurch #inclusivefaith #progressivechurches #progressivechildrenministry #progressivechristianity #femaleleaders #womenpastors #diversechurch #affirmingchurch #womenleaders #newyorkchurches #affirmingchurches #postevangelical #nondenominational #tribeca
Saint Clare of Assisi. #progressivechristianity #inclusivefaith #radicalwelcome #radicallove #allarewelcome #everyonebelongs #communityofchrist #nojusticenofaith #nolovenojustice #toronto #torontochurch #jesus #jesuswasnotwhite #nojusticenopeace #peaceofchrist #honourtreaties #indigenoussolidarity #lgbqt #safespace #affirmingcongregation #transsafespace #faithjusticearts #queerchurch
Sometimes God gives us a little moment of surprise, an expected awareness of God at work within us or in our lives. As Sr. Joan Chittister says, "The purpose of surprise is to give us the chance to rethink first impressions, recreate old ideas, and renew a well-worn faith."
Blessed are those whose families won’t accept them, for they will be welcomed in the family of God. Blessed are those who are afraid to come out, for they will be comforted by the God who knows their heart. Blessed are those who protest for equal rights, for they will show us how to be modern-day prophets. Blessed are those who don’t know what bathroom to go into, for they will know that God is greater than any box our human minds create. Blessed are those who change their names or pronouns, for they are living the baptismal life of dying to our old selves and rising anew. Blessed are those who know their heart, even when everyone else is telling them to be someone else, for they are made in the image of God.
Ever wondered what makes City of God Christian Fellowship stand out? 🌟 It's our heart for inclusion and our dedication to sharing Christ's love. 💒 Whether you're a long-time believer or just curious about faith, we're here for you. At City of God, you're not just another face in the crowd. You're part of a family that celebrates diversity and empowers each other through Christ's teachings. 🤝 We're all about real talk, real support, and real community. Ready to experience this warmth and fellowship? ✨ Join us for worship! 🙏 And if you're feeling this message, share it, comment, or tag a friend who needs a community like ours. #InclusiveFaith #SpiritualGrowth #CommunityLove
Kairos CANADA we did it!!! These are members of our community who wore white or the keffiyeh or both as signs of solidarity with the people in Gaza. Thank you to all who took part! #palestine🇵🇸 #progressivechristianity #inclusivefaith #radicalwelcome #radicallove #allarewelcome #everyonebelongs #communityofchrist #nojusticenofaith #nolovenojustice #toronto #torontochurch #jesus #jesuswasnotwhite #nojusticenopeace #peaceofchrist #honourtreaties #indigenoussolidarity #lgbqt #safespace #affirmingcongregation #transsafespace #faithjusticearts #queerchurch
In today's Gospel reading from John 15:9-17, Jesus gives us his commandment to love others as he loves us. He continues, "No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends." As Jesus gave himself for us, we, too, can give of ourselves for others. Whether it's a small thing like giving someone else the last cookie or something big like donating an organ to help a loved one, love is our calling.
📣Calling all writers — freedom fighters, and liberators! ✍🏾 Check out this opportunity to have your written work published! 📚 👇🏾😯 Posted @withregram • @neverthelessshepreached Know any writers who would be good for this project?? Tag them below! NSP is writing a book!!!! We are partnering with @tehomcenter Publishing to create a truly unique book experience for our community. ❤️ And we are inviting YOU to help author it! After all, what would a book on decolonizing faith be without a myriad of voices? Winners will receive publication in the book PLUS some fantastic prizes. See the slides above or our website for more information. #decolonizefaith #WomanistAuthor #WomanistWriters #womanism #liberationtheology #inclusivefaith #womanisttheology #TheGatheringExperience #NevertheLessShePreached #Inclusion #Publishing #anthologybook