Clergy and laity dualism
In this article, we will look at the grounds, if any, for distinguishing two groups of Christians, a laity and a clergy. First of all, it is [...]
The meaning and benefits of blessing
The words “blessing” and “to bless” are used a lot in Church, and in a variety of meanings. But what is the essence of these concepts, and [...]
The unhappy marriage of 2 words
How two Greek words (for priest and elder) became confused and how this still affects us today. This subject is kind of controversial between Catholics and Protestants, [...]
On the ownership of mission
One morning, the day after Easter 2017, I suddenly remembered an Archdeanery Synod report about “Mission Shaped Church”. It had called the bishop “the chief missioner” and [...]
Priesthood – as it was in the beginning
Intrigued by the distinction between clergy and laity, I have started to investigate the backgrounds of the Christian priesthood / ordained ministry and other forms of ministry. [...]
Trinity: One God, now and forever
Some years ago, Revd. Sam van Leer, who is now our Area Dean, shared a video clip with a funny cartoon about St. Patrick. Two Irish brothers [...]
The appearance of the eternal church
It was in the middle of January 2016 and the ecumenical service in the RC Bavo Basilica was over. Two people were rushing into the vestry when [...]
Signs of hope in times of trouble
No, I am not going to do it. I am not going to ask you if you are prepared for Christmas. Why not? Well, many people would instantly feel [...]
Fighting the right battles – spiritual warfare
“For our struggle is not against enemies of blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against [...]
Recovery of sight and human dignity
“I just called to say I love you”, “you are the sunshine of my life”, “ebony and ivory”, “don’t you worry ‘bout a thing”. Do you know [...]
The Power and Pitfalls of the Heart
The human heart is a great mystery, don’t you think so? Without it we could not be inspired to make great works of arts and heavenly music, [...]
The treasure of knowing Christ
An old man lived on his own, deep in the mountains of Colorado. When he died, some relatives came from the city to collect his valuables. Upon [...]
This post is also available in: Dutch