Weekly Mutterings

April 15, 2012

The authors of Scripture weren’t historians, and not at all interested in preserving the past. They wrote to set hearts on fire, and challenge minds, and compel action. The Bible is a toolbox, or a backpack in which we keep the things we truly need on hand, every day.

That’s one reason why “Christ Renews His Parish” is so important for St. Barnabas, and why it has a prominent place in our parish's history. Yes, CRHP renews excitement in our faith, bring strangers together in friendship, and gives new life to our parish ministries and mission. But perhaps the most important gift that CRHP offers is to bring the Scriptures to life. It is an “aha!” moment when someone begins to realize that this passage, or that story, has something to say to me! In fact, it seems as if the Bible was written just for me, with my fears, my needs, my questions, my journey at the root of everything it says. And, in fact, it was!

That approach to Scripture is called “lectio divina” -- God speaking to me through the words of Scripture. It would be wonderful if that eye-opening, life-changing insight were to happen to everyone. It is the heart of what happens during a “Christ Renews His Parish” weekend.

I urge you to participate in the next CRHP weekend. Teams of fellow parishioners are now in preparation for retreats for women and men to take place in the fall. Talk to someone who has already come to a CRHP weekend, and ask questions. And then make plans to join us! I truly believe it will be a blessing in your life, and most certainly it will be a blessing for St. Barnabas Parish.