We live in an age where everyone can be considered to be an expert in everything, and it is politically insensitive (at least) even to suggest that someone who has...
Denis McNamara
a new earth
This week-end's (6 August) feast of the Transfiguration of Jesus has got me thinking again about church building. Let me explain the connection. In recent weeks I have...
the liturgy guys
In a few weeks I will complete my studies at the Liturgical Institute of St Mary of the Lake University, Chicago. There are many new things happening at the institute,...
building beauty
One of my classes this morning with Denis McNamara got me thinking anew about beauty. It is commonly commented that beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but certainly...
church building 102
If you haven't yet had a chance to read the post "church building 101" you might like to take a few moments to do that before you savour the selection of video clips on...
church building 101
don't forget that you can leave a comment on this post at the bottom of this page In his letter to the priests of his diocese this week, Bishop Barry Jones (Bishop of...
church building
I was speaking to a Christchurch diocese parishioner a few weeks ago who is a part of her parish committee preparing to rebuild their parish church. I was surprised to...
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so simple
So simple that children who naturally and naively live with open eyes and ears get it, when we adults too often miss the point.
mountains & roofs
. The prevailing sense in the Old Testament was that God lived in the heavens (above). Therefore mountain-tops (where heaven and earth seem to intersect) were a logical place of encounter with the divine. We see this in Moses, the holy Old Testament leader of people,...
opportunity knocks
I find it very helpful to hear Jesus speaking directly to me, not as a fearsome threat but as an invitation to not miss the divine presence in the midst of the routines and demands, the ups and downs of my daily life.
the gardener
The question surprised me and the look in the young boy’s eyes let me know that he wanted more than a religious-cliche-response. I took a moment to think, pray, and think again and was surprised at the answer that came to me.
in the field
Such wise people have reflected on their life experience enough to know that while a peaceful and perfect day is welcome, we are most connected with others and therefore with God (we could also say most connected with God and therefore with others), when we live a struggle together.