Call to Silence and Opening Meditation
"The Paradox of Good and Evil"
Imagine taking a lamp into a place which has been dark for a thousand years; that lamp will instantly pierce the darkness, and dispel it. In the same way a single spark of wisdom can dispel ignorance that has lasted for aeons.
Do not worry about the past; the past is over, and cannot be recovered. Concentrate on the future; in particular, concentrate on the next moment, dispelling all darkness from your mind.
To the ignorant mind good and evil are opposites. To the wise mind there can be no duality, only unity. True unity cannot be polluted by evil, nor can it be cleansed by goodness. Yet one evil thought can spoil the merit accumulated over many lives, and one good thought can expiate the sins of many lives. So watch over the mind, ensuring that only good thoughts pass through it; by this means you will move towards enlightenment, in which there is neither good nor evil.
Hui-neng 6 --from The Global Spirit Library:366 Readings from Buddhism ed. Robert Van de Weyer (Cleveland, Ohio: THe Pilgrim Press, 2000)
READINGS:
About Mahayana and Zen Buddhism, compiled from various sources as noted.
THe Bodhisattva Path
What followers of teh Mahayana sought abovaae all through their religious practice was to follow the bodhisattva path. Over the course of several centuries the various stages in the "career" of a bodhisattva were worked out in some detail. The crucial initial stage is the arising of what is known as the "thought of enlightenment" or bodhicitta. This might be likened to a conversion experience, and is the point at which the initial motivation to become a bodhisattva in order to save others arises. The individual then seeks initiation as a bodhisattva, in the course of which he takes a vos (pranidhana) to save all beings by leading them to nirvana, regardless of how long it takes.
Bodhisattvas who had reached the higher stages of their careers were visualized as enormously powerful beings, virtually identical to the Buddha in his heavenly form. Indeed, the distinction between a Buddha and an advancead bodhisattva becomes extremely blurred. [One] of the most important in the ranks of these 'celestial' bodhisattvas [is] Avalokitesvara, 'The Lord who Looks Down (in compassion)'. . .
--from Damien Keown, Buddhism: A Very Short Introduction (Oxford, Oxford University Press, 1996), 63-64
Kuan-yin
Kuan-yin originated as an Indo-Tibetan divinity and was introduced into China by the Mahayana school about the fifth century c.e. Kumerajiva, who entered China in the fifth century, was the first to render the Hindu name Avalokitesvara (Sanskrit) by its Chinese equivalent "Kuan-yin". The name Kuan-yin is a bad Chinese translation of the Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara...Her name means "She who hears the sounds (prayers) of mortals; she who looks down upon the world and hears its cries.".
Kuan-yin was said to be so concerned for humanity that, upon receiving enlightenment, she chose to retain human form rather than transcend it as pure energy. She wanted to stay until every living creature attained enlightenment. For centuries, as a result, she has been the chief symbol of human compassion.
--from Grace Ji-Sun Kim, The Grace of Sophia (Cleveland, Ohio: The Pilgrim Press, 2002), 90-93
Zazen
Usually religion develops itself in the realm of consciousness, seeking to perfect its organization, building beautiful buildings, creating music, evolving a philosophy, and so forth. These are religious activities in the conscious world.
But Buddhism emphasizes the world of unconsciousness. The best way to develop Buddhism is to sit in zazen-just to sit, with a firm conviction in our true nature. This way is much better than to read books or study the philosopohy of Buddhism. Of course it is necessary to study the philosophy--it will strengthen your conviction. Buddhist philosophy is so universal and logical that it is not just the philosophy of Buddhism, but of life itself. The purpose of Buddhist teachings is to point to life itself existing beyond consciousness in our pure original mind.
I am very glad to be here on the day Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bo tree. When he attained enlightenment under the Bo tree, he said, "It is wonderful to see Buddha nature in everything and in each individual!" What he meant was that when we practice zazen we have Buddha nature, and each of us is Buddha himself. By practice he did not mean just to sit under the Bo tyree, or to sit in the cross-legged posture. It is true that this posture is the basic one or original way for us, but actually what Buddha meant was that mountains, trees, flowing water, flowers, and plants-everything as it is-is the way Buddha is. It means everything is taking Buddha's activity, each thing in its own way.
If you continue this simple practice every day, you will obtain some wonderful power. Before you attain it, it is something wonderful, but after you attain it, it is nothing special.
Buddha nature is our original nature; we have it before we practice zazen and before we acknowledge it in terms of consciousness. So in this sense, whatever we do is Buddha's activity. If you want to understand it, you cannot understand it. When you give up trying to understand it, true understanding is always there.
-from Shunryu Suzuki, Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind: Informal Talks on Zen Meditation and Practicea (Boston: Weatherhill/Shambala, 1970, reprint 2005), 130,131,46
An excerpt from "Perfect wisdom for a moment"
Those who think that perfect wisdom can be realized by believing certain doctrines, will never realize perfect wisdom. Those who think that perfect wisdom can be realized by studying external objects, will never realize perfect wisdom. Only those who look within themselves for perfect wisdom, will realize it.
Hui-neng 10
-from The Global Spirit LIbrary:366 Readings from Buddhism ed. Robert Van dea Weyer (Cleveland, Ohio: The Pilgrim Press, 2000).
A Reading from The Gospel of Mary (trans. Karen King)
When the Blessed One had said these things, he greeted them all, "Peace be with you!" he said. "Acquire my peace within yourselves!"
"Be on your guard so that no one deceives you by saying, 'Look over here!' or 'Look over there!' For the child of true Humanity exists within you. Follow it! Those who search for it will find it.
"Go then, preac[h] the good news about the Realm. [Do] not lay down any rule beyond what I determined for you, nor promulgate law like the lawgiver, or else you might be dominated by it."
After he had said these things, he departed from them.
-from Karen King, The Gospel of Mary of Magdala: Jesus and the First Woman Apostle http://www.maryofmagdala.com/GMary_Text/gmary_text.html
Call to Conversation
Closing Meditation
Bodhisattva Vows (changed in unison)
Beings are numberless
I vow to save them
Delusions are inexhaustible
I vow to end them
Dharma gates are boundless
I vow to enter them
Buddha's way is unsurpassable
I vow to become it.
We ask for your thoughts/comments to continue our conversation.
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
Sunday, July 22, 2007
Call to Silence and Opening Meditation
Music: Kari Perkins
Hodu L'Adonai (Psalm 118)
Hodu L'Adonai ki tov
Ki l'olam chasdo
Yomar na Yisrael
Ki l'olam chasdo
Yom'ru na Beit Aharon
Ki l'olan chasdo
Yom'ru yir'ei Adonai
Ki l'olam chasdo
Give praises to God for God is good.
God's steadfast love is eternal.
May Israel declare it.
May the house of Aaron declare it.
May those who fear God declare it.
Readings
About Judaism, compiled from various sources
(each paragraph read by a different person)
As we discussed last week, the Torah, which is comprised of the first five books of the Hebrew Bible: Genesis, Deuteronomu, Nmbers, Leviticus, and Exodus: is the most holy book for the Jews. It is housed in a box or container called the ARK. The TOrah is usually a scroll and is only touched with a special pointer or Yad, as it is too holy for human touch. The Torah is kept in the synagogue, which is the place of worship. Interestingly, the Jewish spiritual leader, or Rabbi, which means teacher, has no special religious status, unlike leaders in many other faiths.
There are different levels of orthodoxy in the Jewish religion: orthodox, conservative reformed, and a newly formed branch called progressive. For all Jews, the most important day of the week is the Sabbath or Shabbat, which is a day made holy by refraining from weekday work while eating with family, praying, and attending Synagogue. The Sabbath begins at sunset on Friday and ends at sunset on Saturday.
Many Jews wear a skullcap called a Kippah. Some wear it all the time, some just at Synagogue. An orthodox Jew must keep his head covered at all times and may even wear a skullcap under a larger hat for security. Head covers for women are optional. A prayer shawl or Tallit can be worn during prayer, the fringe on the shawl to remind him of the many commandments of the Torah. A tefilin, a small leather box with long leather straps, can be affixed to the forearm or head during prayer, a reminder to keep God's laws in the wearer's heart and mind.
Jewish boys become adults after a period of study in a ceremony called Bar Mitzvah, which means son of the Commandments. Reformed and conservative American Jewish girls can become daughters in a similar ceremony called a Bat Mitzvah.
Lastly, Jews marry in a service called Kiddushin, which is Hebrew for Holy or special. The couple marries under a huppah or canopy and write a contract or Ketubah. A glass is broken to remind the couple that sadness is always just around the corner for Jews. It is also a reminder of the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem as well as a reminder of the permanence of marriage.
It is customary at the beginning of Shabbat for the family to light candles and join in prayer:
As these Shabbat candles give light to all who behold them,
so may we, by our lives, give light to all who behold us.
As their brightness reminds us of the generations of Israel who
have kindled light, so may we, in our own day, be among
those who kindle light.
The parents now bless the children saying:
May God bless you and guide you. Be strong for the truth, charitable
in your words, just and loving in your deeds. A noble heritage has
been entrusted to you; guard it well.
Music: Kari Perkins
Shalon Rav
Shalom rav al Yisrael am'cha tasim l'olam
Ki atah hu Melech Adon l'chol ha shalom
V'tov b'einacha l'vareich et am'cha Yisrael
B'chol et uv'chol sha'ah bishlomecha
Baruch atah Adonai ham;vorach et amo Yisrael ha'hashalom.
Bestow peace upon Your people Israel forever,
For You are King, Master of all Peace.
May it be good in Your eyes to bless Your people Israel,
At every time and every hour, with Your peace.
Blessed are You, Lord, who blesses His people Israel with peace.
A poem for Home or Synagogue (from Gates of the House)
Something is very gently, invisibly, silently, pulling
at me - a thread or net of threads finer than cobweb
and as elastic. I haven't tried the strength of it. No
barbed hook pierced and tore me. Was it not long ago
this thread began to draw me? Or way back? Was I born
with its knot about my neck, a bridle? Not fear but a
stirring or wonder makes me catch my breath when I
feel the tug of it when I though it had loosed itself
and gone.
A Reading from the Gospel of Mary Magdalene
"Impose no law other than that which I have witnessed. Do not add more laws to those give in the Torah, lest you become bound by them." Having said all this, he departed.
Call to Conversation
Closing Meditation
No Snake, by Annie Finch
Inside my Eden, I can find no snake.
There's not one I could look to and believe,
obey and then be ruined by and leave
because of, bearing children and an ache.
I circle down on Eden from above,
searching the fields in solitude and love
like a high hawk. She would never forsake
this place that's made again of memory;
she'd wait in that tree below me, spring
out towards my growing shadow, let it bring
a sudden hope that she could coil free;
but she's not here. Only mountains that curve,
and dip around the valley when I swerve,
settle with dark heights, as I near the tree.
Music: Kari Perkins
Modim Anachnu Lach
Modim anachnu lach she'atah hu Adonai Eloheinu
Elohei avoteinu l'olam va'ed
Tzur chayeinu magen ish'enu
Atah hu l'dor vador
We gratefully thank You, for You are the Lord our God,
And God of our ancestors, forever and ever.
Rock of our lives, shield of our salvation,
You are the One, from generation to generation.
The Mary Magdalene Community kindly asks for your comments/thoughts to continue our conversation.
Music: Kari Perkins
Hodu L'Adonai (Psalm 118)
Hodu L'Adonai ki tov
Ki l'olam chasdo
Yomar na Yisrael
Ki l'olam chasdo
Yom'ru na Beit Aharon
Ki l'olan chasdo
Yom'ru yir'ei Adonai
Ki l'olam chasdo
Give praises to God for God is good.
God's steadfast love is eternal.
May Israel declare it.
May the house of Aaron declare it.
May those who fear God declare it.
Readings
About Judaism, compiled from various sources
(each paragraph read by a different person)
As we discussed last week, the Torah, which is comprised of the first five books of the Hebrew Bible: Genesis, Deuteronomu, Nmbers, Leviticus, and Exodus: is the most holy book for the Jews. It is housed in a box or container called the ARK. The TOrah is usually a scroll and is only touched with a special pointer or Yad, as it is too holy for human touch. The Torah is kept in the synagogue, which is the place of worship. Interestingly, the Jewish spiritual leader, or Rabbi, which means teacher, has no special religious status, unlike leaders in many other faiths.
There are different levels of orthodoxy in the Jewish religion: orthodox, conservative reformed, and a newly formed branch called progressive. For all Jews, the most important day of the week is the Sabbath or Shabbat, which is a day made holy by refraining from weekday work while eating with family, praying, and attending Synagogue. The Sabbath begins at sunset on Friday and ends at sunset on Saturday.
Many Jews wear a skullcap called a Kippah. Some wear it all the time, some just at Synagogue. An orthodox Jew must keep his head covered at all times and may even wear a skullcap under a larger hat for security. Head covers for women are optional. A prayer shawl or Tallit can be worn during prayer, the fringe on the shawl to remind him of the many commandments of the Torah. A tefilin, a small leather box with long leather straps, can be affixed to the forearm or head during prayer, a reminder to keep God's laws in the wearer's heart and mind.
Jewish boys become adults after a period of study in a ceremony called Bar Mitzvah, which means son of the Commandments. Reformed and conservative American Jewish girls can become daughters in a similar ceremony called a Bat Mitzvah.
Lastly, Jews marry in a service called Kiddushin, which is Hebrew for Holy or special. The couple marries under a huppah or canopy and write a contract or Ketubah. A glass is broken to remind the couple that sadness is always just around the corner for Jews. It is also a reminder of the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem as well as a reminder of the permanence of marriage.
It is customary at the beginning of Shabbat for the family to light candles and join in prayer:
As these Shabbat candles give light to all who behold them,
so may we, by our lives, give light to all who behold us.
As their brightness reminds us of the generations of Israel who
have kindled light, so may we, in our own day, be among
those who kindle light.
The parents now bless the children saying:
May God bless you and guide you. Be strong for the truth, charitable
in your words, just and loving in your deeds. A noble heritage has
been entrusted to you; guard it well.
Music: Kari Perkins
Shalon Rav
Shalom rav al Yisrael am'cha tasim l'olam
Ki atah hu Melech Adon l'chol ha shalom
V'tov b'einacha l'vareich et am'cha Yisrael
B'chol et uv'chol sha'ah bishlomecha
Baruch atah Adonai ham;vorach et amo Yisrael ha'hashalom.
Bestow peace upon Your people Israel forever,
For You are King, Master of all Peace.
May it be good in Your eyes to bless Your people Israel,
At every time and every hour, with Your peace.
Blessed are You, Lord, who blesses His people Israel with peace.
A poem for Home or Synagogue (from Gates of the House)
Something is very gently, invisibly, silently, pulling
at me - a thread or net of threads finer than cobweb
and as elastic. I haven't tried the strength of it. No
barbed hook pierced and tore me. Was it not long ago
this thread began to draw me? Or way back? Was I born
with its knot about my neck, a bridle? Not fear but a
stirring or wonder makes me catch my breath when I
feel the tug of it when I though it had loosed itself
and gone.
A Reading from the Gospel of Mary Magdalene
"Impose no law other than that which I have witnessed. Do not add more laws to those give in the Torah, lest you become bound by them." Having said all this, he departed.
Call to Conversation
Closing Meditation
No Snake, by Annie Finch
Inside my Eden, I can find no snake.
There's not one I could look to and believe,
obey and then be ruined by and leave
because of, bearing children and an ache.
I circle down on Eden from above,
searching the fields in solitude and love
like a high hawk. She would never forsake
this place that's made again of memory;
she'd wait in that tree below me, spring
out towards my growing shadow, let it bring
a sudden hope that she could coil free;
but she's not here. Only mountains that curve,
and dip around the valley when I swerve,
settle with dark heights, as I near the tree.
Music: Kari Perkins
Modim Anachnu Lach
Modim anachnu lach she'atah hu Adonai Eloheinu
Elohei avoteinu l'olam va'ed
Tzur chayeinu magen ish'enu
Atah hu l'dor vador
We gratefully thank You, for You are the Lord our God,
And God of our ancestors, forever and ever.
Rock of our lives, shield of our salvation,
You are the One, from generation to generation.
The Mary Magdalene Community kindly asks for your comments/thoughts to continue our conversation.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
FEAST OF MARY MAGDALENE
EVENT
Join Brigid's Place for our annual celebration of the Feast Day of Mary Magdalene on Sunday, July 22, 2007. Our festive worship in the Cathedral at 6 p.m. will include songs from the Taizé Community, blessing of the new icon of Mary Magdalene by the Rev. Mary Green, and Eucharist.
A Lecture and reception follows in the Great Hall. Cost is $20 for lecture/reception.
The Cathedral Bookstore will be open and stocked with books about Mary Magdalene!
Mary Magdalene Feast Day
Join us this Sunday and hear our featured lecturer on Mary Magdalene, April DeConick.
"Where Were the Women? What the Gospel of Mary Tells Us"
Who was Mary Magdalene, really? A prostitute? A loyal disciple? Jesus' wife? Dr. DeConick's lecture will explore these themes and more as it unpacks the theology of the Gospel of Mary, a Gnostic "midrash" gospel. Mary emerges from the text as an early Gnostic church leader administering the eucharist and presenting a homily on its benefits, which include a mystical transfiguration and ascent to God.
Featured Speaker April DeConick recently joined the Rice University Religious Studies faculty as Isla Carroll and Percy E. Turner Professor of Biblical Studies. Dr. DeConick is an historian of early Jewish and Christian thought, fascinated by the many ways the Jesus tradition emerges across the literature. She has a deep love for exploring the various expressions of early mysticism, including the spirituality of classic Gnostic thinkers. She is the author of Seek to See Him: Ascent and Vision Mysticism in the Gospel of Thomas; Voices of the Mystics: Early Christian Discourse in the Gospel of John, Thomas and Other Ancient Christian Literature and other books, articles and papers.
A Special Note: Trebbe Johnson has been a featured Brigid's Place lecturer and retreat leader. She is offering a Beloved retreat this month at the Omega Institute July 29-August 3rd. Click here for more information.
Brigid's Place
www.brigidsplace.org713-590-3333
Forward email
Join Brigid's Place for our annual celebration of the Feast Day of Mary Magdalene on Sunday, July 22, 2007. Our festive worship in the Cathedral at 6 p.m. will include songs from the Taizé Community, blessing of the new icon of Mary Magdalene by the Rev. Mary Green, and Eucharist.
A Lecture and reception follows in the Great Hall. Cost is $20 for lecture/reception.
The Cathedral Bookstore will be open and stocked with books about Mary Magdalene!
Mary Magdalene Feast Day
Join us this Sunday and hear our featured lecturer on Mary Magdalene, April DeConick.
"Where Were the Women? What the Gospel of Mary Tells Us"
Who was Mary Magdalene, really? A prostitute? A loyal disciple? Jesus' wife? Dr. DeConick's lecture will explore these themes and more as it unpacks the theology of the Gospel of Mary, a Gnostic "midrash" gospel. Mary emerges from the text as an early Gnostic church leader administering the eucharist and presenting a homily on its benefits, which include a mystical transfiguration and ascent to God.
Featured Speaker April DeConick recently joined the Rice University Religious Studies faculty as Isla Carroll and Percy E. Turner Professor of Biblical Studies. Dr. DeConick is an historian of early Jewish and Christian thought, fascinated by the many ways the Jesus tradition emerges across the literature. She has a deep love for exploring the various expressions of early mysticism, including the spirituality of classic Gnostic thinkers. She is the author of Seek to See Him: Ascent and Vision Mysticism in the Gospel of Thomas; Voices of the Mystics: Early Christian Discourse in the Gospel of John, Thomas and Other Ancient Christian Literature and other books, articles and papers.
A Special Note: Trebbe Johnson has been a featured Brigid's Place lecturer and retreat leader. She is offering a Beloved retreat this month at the Omega Institute July 29-August 3rd. Click here for more information.
Brigid's Place
www.brigidsplace.org713-590-3333
Forward email
Monday, July 16, 2007
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Today we begin a two-week exploration of Judaism with the help of the Episcopal Diocese's "Peace Village" kit.
Call to Silence and Opening Meditation
Music: Cyd Baron, Cantorial Soloist--Esa Eina, composed by Laura Berkson
Readings:
About Judaism, compiled from various sources
Judaism is the religion of the Jewish people, based on principles and ethics embodied in the Bible ("Tanakh") and the Talmud, a record of rabbinic discussions pertaining to Jewish law, ethics, customs & history. According to Jewish tradition, the history of Judaism begins with the Covenant between God & Abraham (c.2000B.C.), the patriarch & progenitor of the Jewish people. Judaism is the first recorded monotheistic faith & among the oldest religious traditions still in practice today. Judaism differs from many religions in that central authority is not vested in a person or group, but in sacred texts & traditions. Throughout the ages, Judaism has clung to a number of religious principles, the most important of which is the belief in a single, omniscient, omnipotent, benevolent, transcendent God ("Yahweh"), who created the universe & continues to govern it. According to traditional Jewish belief, the God who created the world established a covenant with the Jewish people, & revealed His laws & commandments to Moses on Mount Sinai in the form of the Torah. The traditional practice of Judaism revolves around study & the observance of God's laws & commandments as written in the Torah & expounded in the Talmud. The Torah includes 613 commandments including the "Decalogue", also known as the Ten Commandmeants. Judaism nourishes a community-based form of spiritual practice & the two most important places for a Jew are the home & the synagogue.
The mezuzah is a small box fixed to the doorposts of homes which contain special prayers & passages from the Torah, thus signifying the importance of blessing one's home with God's love. The symbol for Judaism is the "Magen David", also known as the Star of David. The menorah is one of the oldest symbols of the Jewish faith, which symbolizes the burning bush as seen by Moses on Mt. Sinai when God proclaimed that Moses was divine. Jesus is not seen as the Messiah by the Jews.
The Shekhinah Shabbat by 16th century mystic, Rabbi Isaac Luria
I sing in hymns
to enter the gates
of the Field
of holy apples.
A new table
we prepare for Her,
a lovely candelabrum
sheds its light upon us.
Between right and left
the Bride approaches,
in holy jewels
and festive garments.
A Reading from the Gospel of Mary Magdalene
After saying this, the Blessed One greeted them all, saying: "Peace be with you-may my Peace arise and be fulfilled within you! Be vigilant, and allow no one to mislead you by saying: "Here it is!" or "There it is!" For it is within you that the Son of Man dwells. Go to him, for those who seek him, find him. Walk forth, and announce the gospel of the Kingdom."
"Impose no law other than that which I have witnessed. Do not add more laws to those given in the Torah, lest you become bound by them."
Having said all this, he departed.
L'Dor Vador (from Generation to Generation) by Josh Nelson
(NOTE: each line is to be read by a different person)
We are gifts, & we are blessings.
We are history in song.
We are hope, & we are healing,
We are learning to be strong.
We are words, & we are stories,
We are pictures of the past.
We are carriers of the wisdom.
Not the first & not the last.
From generation to generation,
These lips will praise your name.
Looking back on the journey that we carry in our heart,
From the shadow of the mountain to the waters that would part.
We are blessed and we are holy.
We are children of your way.
And the words that bring us meaning
We will have the strength to say:
From generation to generation
These lips will praise your name.
Call to Conversation:
An adaption of "Shalom Aleichem", a traditional Shabbat song sung on Fridays to mark the beginning of the Jewish Sabbath.
(To be read together)
Peace upon you, ministering angels, messengers of the Most High, of the Supreme King of Kings, the Holy One, blessed be All.
Come in peace, messengers of peace, messengers of the Most High, of the Supreme King of Kings, the Holy One, blessed be All.
Bless me with peace, messengers of peace, messengers of the Most High, of the Supreme King of Kings, the Holy One, blessed be All.
May your departure be in peace, messengers of peace, messengers of the Most High, of the Supreme King of Kings, the Holy One, blessed be All.
Closing:
Music: Cyd Baron - L'Dor Vador, composed by Josh Nelson
The community asks for your thoughts/comments to continue our Sunday conversation.
Call to Silence and Opening Meditation
Music: Cyd Baron, Cantorial Soloist--Esa Eina, composed by Laura Berkson
Readings:
About Judaism, compiled from various sources
Judaism is the religion of the Jewish people, based on principles and ethics embodied in the Bible ("Tanakh") and the Talmud, a record of rabbinic discussions pertaining to Jewish law, ethics, customs & history. According to Jewish tradition, the history of Judaism begins with the Covenant between God & Abraham (c.2000B.C.), the patriarch & progenitor of the Jewish people. Judaism is the first recorded monotheistic faith & among the oldest religious traditions still in practice today. Judaism differs from many religions in that central authority is not vested in a person or group, but in sacred texts & traditions. Throughout the ages, Judaism has clung to a number of religious principles, the most important of which is the belief in a single, omniscient, omnipotent, benevolent, transcendent God ("Yahweh"), who created the universe & continues to govern it. According to traditional Jewish belief, the God who created the world established a covenant with the Jewish people, & revealed His laws & commandments to Moses on Mount Sinai in the form of the Torah. The traditional practice of Judaism revolves around study & the observance of God's laws & commandments as written in the Torah & expounded in the Talmud. The Torah includes 613 commandments including the "Decalogue", also known as the Ten Commandmeants. Judaism nourishes a community-based form of spiritual practice & the two most important places for a Jew are the home & the synagogue.
The mezuzah is a small box fixed to the doorposts of homes which contain special prayers & passages from the Torah, thus signifying the importance of blessing one's home with God's love. The symbol for Judaism is the "Magen David", also known as the Star of David. The menorah is one of the oldest symbols of the Jewish faith, which symbolizes the burning bush as seen by Moses on Mt. Sinai when God proclaimed that Moses was divine. Jesus is not seen as the Messiah by the Jews.
The Shekhinah Shabbat by 16th century mystic, Rabbi Isaac Luria
I sing in hymns
to enter the gates
of the Field
of holy apples.
A new table
we prepare for Her,
a lovely candelabrum
sheds its light upon us.
Between right and left
the Bride approaches,
in holy jewels
and festive garments.
A Reading from the Gospel of Mary Magdalene
After saying this, the Blessed One greeted them all, saying: "Peace be with you-may my Peace arise and be fulfilled within you! Be vigilant, and allow no one to mislead you by saying: "Here it is!" or "There it is!" For it is within you that the Son of Man dwells. Go to him, for those who seek him, find him. Walk forth, and announce the gospel of the Kingdom."
"Impose no law other than that which I have witnessed. Do not add more laws to those given in the Torah, lest you become bound by them."
Having said all this, he departed.
L'Dor Vador (from Generation to Generation) by Josh Nelson
(NOTE: each line is to be read by a different person)
We are gifts, & we are blessings.
We are history in song.
We are hope, & we are healing,
We are learning to be strong.
We are words, & we are stories,
We are pictures of the past.
We are carriers of the wisdom.
Not the first & not the last.
From generation to generation,
These lips will praise your name.
Looking back on the journey that we carry in our heart,
From the shadow of the mountain to the waters that would part.
We are blessed and we are holy.
We are children of your way.
And the words that bring us meaning
We will have the strength to say:
From generation to generation
These lips will praise your name.
Call to Conversation:
An adaption of "Shalom Aleichem", a traditional Shabbat song sung on Fridays to mark the beginning of the Jewish Sabbath.
(To be read together)
Peace upon you, ministering angels, messengers of the Most High, of the Supreme King of Kings, the Holy One, blessed be All.
Come in peace, messengers of peace, messengers of the Most High, of the Supreme King of Kings, the Holy One, blessed be All.
Bless me with peace, messengers of peace, messengers of the Most High, of the Supreme King of Kings, the Holy One, blessed be All.
May your departure be in peace, messengers of peace, messengers of the Most High, of the Supreme King of Kings, the Holy One, blessed be All.
Closing:
Music: Cyd Baron - L'Dor Vador, composed by Josh Nelson
The community asks for your thoughts/comments to continue our Sunday conversation.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Universalism & Near-Death Experiences on 20/20
This Friday evening, July 13, the ABC television> network show 20/20 has scheduled a broadcast about the> concept of hell. One segment of the show will deal>> with distressing or harrowing NDEs. Among those> interviewed for that segment were former IANDS> president and researcher Dr. Jan Holden from the>> University of North Texas , and near-death experiencer>> and author Matthew Dovel, who had a frightening NDE> (see www.mylastbreath.com).>>>> We are told that this show also will include views of>> hell throughout history and across cultures. IANDS has>> not seen the segment about NDEs and we cannot vouch>> for its accuracy, impartiality or what interview>> material may be left on the cutting room floor.>>>>
Sunday, July 8, 2007
SUNDAY, JULY 8, 2007
CALL TO SILENCE AND OPENING MEDITATION
Meditations - Nick Osborne
CALL TO CONVERSATION
A READING FROM THE GOSPEL OF MARY MAGDALENE
"What is matter? Will it last forever?"
The Teacher answered: "All that is born, all that is created, all the elements of nature are interwoven and united with each other. All that is composed shall be decomposed, everything returns to its roots; matter returns to the origins of matter. Those who have ears, let them hear."
Peter said to him: "Since you have become the interpreter of the elements and the events of the world, tell us: What is the sin of the world?"
The Teacher answered: "There is no sin. It is you who make sin exist, when you act according to the habits of your corrupted nature; this is where sin lies. This is why the Good has come into your midst. It acts together with the elements of your nature so as to reunite it with its roots." Then He continued: "This is why you become sick, and why you die: it is the result of your actions: what you do takes you further away. Those who have ears, let them hear."
CLOSING MEDITATION AND CALL TO REMEMBRANCE
We ask for your comments/thoughts to continue our Sunday conversation.
CALL TO SILENCE AND OPENING MEDITATION
Meditations - Nick Osborne
CALL TO CONVERSATION
A READING FROM THE GOSPEL OF MARY MAGDALENE
"What is matter? Will it last forever?"
The Teacher answered: "All that is born, all that is created, all the elements of nature are interwoven and united with each other. All that is composed shall be decomposed, everything returns to its roots; matter returns to the origins of matter. Those who have ears, let them hear."
Peter said to him: "Since you have become the interpreter of the elements and the events of the world, tell us: What is the sin of the world?"
The Teacher answered: "There is no sin. It is you who make sin exist, when you act according to the habits of your corrupted nature; this is where sin lies. This is why the Good has come into your midst. It acts together with the elements of your nature so as to reunite it with its roots." Then He continued: "This is why you become sick, and why you die: it is the result of your actions: what you do takes you further away. Those who have ears, let them hear."
CLOSING MEDITATION AND CALL TO REMEMBRANCE
We ask for your comments/thoughts to continue our Sunday conversation.
Tuesday, July 3, 2007
FYI:
Magdalene Community Newsletter, July 2007
Tomorrow, July 4, the Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church, Katherine Jefferts Schori, will speak at Christ Church Cathedral, 1117 Texas Ave., Houston, TX 77002 at 11 a.m. Jefferts Schori is the first woman to hold such a position. There will be a reception following the service.
***************************
Reminder -- the Friday study group has taken the summer off, and will reconvene the first Friday in September.
**************************
We will begin our study of the major world religions on July 15. The first 2 services will be about Judaism.
**************************
On Sunday, July 22, 2007, Brigid's Place is holding its annual celebration of the Feast Day of Mary Magdalene at Christ Church Cathedral. There will be a worship service in the Cathedral at 6:00 pm (admission is free to this service) with a lecture and reception in the Great Hall at 7 pm. The cost for the lecture/reception is $20. Dr. April DeConick, professor of Biblical studies at Rice University, is the homilist and lecturer.
***************************
Margie has begun putting the readings from the Sunday services on the Magdalene Community blog: http://magdalenecommunity.blogspot.com/
Also, the service leaflets are available in PDF at the Brigid's Place site: http://www.brigidsplace.org/Service-Leaflets.asp
All leaflets from our first service on September 11, 2005, through February 11, 2007, are available. The leaflets will eventually be brought up-to-date at this site. If there is a specific date for which you would like to have an electronic copy, just let me know, and I will be happy to email it to you.
**************************
Blessings to you all.
Bridgitt
**************************
Tomorrow, July 4, the Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church, Katherine Jefferts Schori, will speak at Christ Church Cathedral, 1117 Texas Ave., Houston, TX 77002 at 11 a.m. Jefferts Schori is the first woman to hold such a position. There will be a reception following the service.
***************************
Reminder -- the Friday study group has taken the summer off, and will reconvene the first Friday in September.
**************************
We will begin our study of the major world religions on July 15. The first 2 services will be about Judaism.
**************************
On Sunday, July 22, 2007, Brigid's Place is holding its annual celebration of the Feast Day of Mary Magdalene at Christ Church Cathedral. There will be a worship service in the Cathedral at 6:00 pm (admission is free to this service) with a lecture and reception in the Great Hall at 7 pm. The cost for the lecture/reception is $20. Dr. April DeConick, professor of Biblical studies at Rice University, is the homilist and lecturer.
***************************
Margie has begun putting the readings from the Sunday services on the Magdalene Community blog: http://magdalenecommunity.blogspot.com/
Also, the service leaflets are available in PDF at the Brigid's Place site: http://www.brigidsplace.org/Service-Leaflets.asp
All leaflets from our first service on September 11, 2005, through February 11, 2007, are available. The leaflets will eventually be brought up-to-date at this site. If there is a specific date for which you would like to have an electronic copy, just let me know, and I will be happy to email it to you.
**************************
Blessings to you all.
Bridgitt
**************************
Monday, July 2, 2007
Readings for Sunday, July 1, 2007
-- We kindly ask for your comments/thoughts to continue our conversation.
OPENING MEDITATION:
From you is born all ruling will,
the power and life to do, the song that beautifies all--
from age to age it renews.
To you belongs each fertile funciton:
ideals, energy, glorious harmony-
during every cosmic cycle.
Out of you, the queenship and kinship-
ruling principles, the "I can"
of the cosmos...
Out of you, the vital force
producing and sustaining all life,
every virtue...
Out of you the astonishing fire,
the birthing glory, returning light and sound
to the cosmos...
Again and again, from each universal gathering-
of creatures, nations, planets, time, and space-
to the next.
Truly-power to these statements-
may they be the ground from which all
my actions grow:
Sealed in trust and faith.
Amen.
(from Prayers of the Cosmos:Meditations on the Aramaic Words of Jesus,
Neil Douglas-Koltz, pg.37, HarperSanFrancisco, 1990. Retranslation from the
Aramaic of "For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen)
READINGS:
A READING FROM THE PIRKE AVOT 1:18
Rabban Shimon ben Gamliel said:
The world stands upon three things:
Upon truth.
Upon peace.
Upon justice.
"Speak truth each to the other, establish peace and render honest judgment in your gates" (Zech. 8:16)
A READING FROM THE PIRKE AVOT 2:4
Rabban Gamliel used to say:
Desire only that which has already been given.
Want only that which you already have.
As a river empties in the ocean,
empty yourself into Reality.
When you are emptied into Reality,
you are filled with compassion,
desiring only justice.
When you desire only justice,
the will of Reality becomes your will.
When you are filled with compassion,
there is no self to oppose another
and no other to stand against oneself.
(The Pirke Avot is a collection of rabbinic sayings compiled sometime between 250 and 275. Although little is known about these early rabbis, they speak of the necessity of enacting holiness, of letting go of the illusion of fragmentation and bringing things into harmony with each other.)
A READING FROM ABRAHAM ISAAC KOOK
The Song of Songs
There is one who sings the song of his soul, discovering in his soul everything--utter spiritual fulfillment.
There is one who sings the song of his people. Emerging from the private circle of his soul--not expansive enough, not yet tranquil--he strives for fierce heights, clinging to the entire community of Israel in tender love. Together with her, he sings her song, feels her anguish, delights in her hopes. He conceives profound insights into her past and her future, deftly probing the inwardness of her spirit with the wisdom of love.
Then there is one whose soul expands until it extends beyond the border of Israel, singing the song of humanity. In the glory of the entire human race, in the glory of the human form, his spirit spreads, aspiring to the goal of humankind, envisioning its consummation. From this spring of life, he draws all his deepest reflections, his searching, striving, and vision.
Then there is one who expands even further until he unites with all of existence, with all creatures, with all worlds, singing a song with them all.
There is one who ascends with all these songs in unison--the song of the soul, the song of the nation, the song of humanity, the song of the cosmos--resounding together, blending in harmony, circulating the sap of life, the sound of holy joy.
(All readings are from Chapter 5, "Judaism: The Way of Holiness," The Essential Mystics: The Soul's Journey Into Truth, HarperCollins, New York, 1996)
A READING FROM THE GOSPEL OF MARY MAGDALENE
"What is matter? Will it last forever?"
The Teacher answered: "All that is born, all that is created, all the elements of nature are interwoven and united with each other.
All that is composed shall be decomposed; everything returns to its roots; matter returns to the origins of matter.
Those who have ears, let them hear."
Peter said to him: "Since you have become the interpreter of the elements and the events of the world, tell us: What is the sin of the world?"
The Teacher answered: "There is no sin. It is you who make sin exists, when you act according to the habits of your corrupted nature; this is where sin lies.
This is why the Good has come into your midst. It acts together with the elements of your nature so as to reunite it with its roots."
Then he continued: "This is why you become sick, and why you die: it is the result of your actions; what you do takes you further away.
Those who have ears, let them hear."
CALL TO CONVERSATION
CLOSING MEDITATION AND REMEMBRANCE
OPENING MEDITATION:
From you is born all ruling will,
the power and life to do, the song that beautifies all--
from age to age it renews.
To you belongs each fertile funciton:
ideals, energy, glorious harmony-
during every cosmic cycle.
Out of you, the queenship and kinship-
ruling principles, the "I can"
of the cosmos...
Out of you, the vital force
producing and sustaining all life,
every virtue...
Out of you the astonishing fire,
the birthing glory, returning light and sound
to the cosmos...
Again and again, from each universal gathering-
of creatures, nations, planets, time, and space-
to the next.
Truly-power to these statements-
may they be the ground from which all
my actions grow:
Sealed in trust and faith.
Amen.
(from Prayers of the Cosmos:Meditations on the Aramaic Words of Jesus,
Neil Douglas-Koltz, pg.37, HarperSanFrancisco, 1990. Retranslation from the
Aramaic of "For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen)
READINGS:
A READING FROM THE PIRKE AVOT 1:18
Rabban Shimon ben Gamliel said:
The world stands upon three things:
Upon truth.
Upon peace.
Upon justice.
"Speak truth each to the other, establish peace and render honest judgment in your gates" (Zech. 8:16)
A READING FROM THE PIRKE AVOT 2:4
Rabban Gamliel used to say:
Desire only that which has already been given.
Want only that which you already have.
As a river empties in the ocean,
empty yourself into Reality.
When you are emptied into Reality,
you are filled with compassion,
desiring only justice.
When you desire only justice,
the will of Reality becomes your will.
When you are filled with compassion,
there is no self to oppose another
and no other to stand against oneself.
(The Pirke Avot is a collection of rabbinic sayings compiled sometime between 250 and 275. Although little is known about these early rabbis, they speak of the necessity of enacting holiness, of letting go of the illusion of fragmentation and bringing things into harmony with each other.)
A READING FROM ABRAHAM ISAAC KOOK
The Song of Songs
There is one who sings the song of his soul, discovering in his soul everything--utter spiritual fulfillment.
There is one who sings the song of his people. Emerging from the private circle of his soul--not expansive enough, not yet tranquil--he strives for fierce heights, clinging to the entire community of Israel in tender love. Together with her, he sings her song, feels her anguish, delights in her hopes. He conceives profound insights into her past and her future, deftly probing the inwardness of her spirit with the wisdom of love.
Then there is one whose soul expands until it extends beyond the border of Israel, singing the song of humanity. In the glory of the entire human race, in the glory of the human form, his spirit spreads, aspiring to the goal of humankind, envisioning its consummation. From this spring of life, he draws all his deepest reflections, his searching, striving, and vision.
Then there is one who expands even further until he unites with all of existence, with all creatures, with all worlds, singing a song with them all.
There is one who ascends with all these songs in unison--the song of the soul, the song of the nation, the song of humanity, the song of the cosmos--resounding together, blending in harmony, circulating the sap of life, the sound of holy joy.
(All readings are from Chapter 5, "Judaism: The Way of Holiness," The Essential Mystics: The Soul's Journey Into Truth, HarperCollins, New York, 1996)
A READING FROM THE GOSPEL OF MARY MAGDALENE
"What is matter? Will it last forever?"
The Teacher answered: "All that is born, all that is created, all the elements of nature are interwoven and united with each other.
All that is composed shall be decomposed; everything returns to its roots; matter returns to the origins of matter.
Those who have ears, let them hear."
Peter said to him: "Since you have become the interpreter of the elements and the events of the world, tell us: What is the sin of the world?"
The Teacher answered: "There is no sin. It is you who make sin exists, when you act according to the habits of your corrupted nature; this is where sin lies.
This is why the Good has come into your midst. It acts together with the elements of your nature so as to reunite it with its roots."
Then he continued: "This is why you become sick, and why you die: it is the result of your actions; what you do takes you further away.
Those who have ears, let them hear."
CALL TO CONVERSATION
CLOSING MEDITATION AND REMEMBRANCE
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