Via Media at St. John's Episcopal Church FAQ Have you ever found youself wishing for a spiritual home? One in which community matters, intellectual inquiry is honored, and diversity is valued? Do you seek a place where worship is meaningful and beautiful and does not require you to "check your mind" at the door? If so, the Episcopal Church may be something you want to know more about. The Episcopal Church is a member of the worldwide Anglican Communion, the confederation of churches that descend from the missionary activity of the Church of England. ("Anglican" means "English.") Classical Anglicanism teaches an "All may, some should, none must" philosophy that centers our life as a church together in worship, community and outreach rather than rigid confessional statements or strict moral codes. The "Via Media", or "Middle Way," has been a hallmark of Anglican theology, spirituality and worship for centuries and holds that choosing the broad middle path between extremes is a deliberate choice to further God's purposes in the world. Scripture, Tradition and Reason are all valued in the Anglican tradition and are used as counter-balancing sources of authority. Whether you are a Christian looking for a different church, an agnostic wanting to know more and discuss spiritual matters, a Unitarian looking for a place to "put down roots" or if you are none of the above, The Episcopal Church welcomes you where you are, and St. John's invites you to a series of informal presentations and discussions on the Via Media of Classical Anglicanism.
So what is the Via Media Program? The Via Media program is an eight-week series of meetings that explores the basics of Christian faith and specific aspects of the Anglican way. Each session includes a meal, a video presentation that features a round table discussion on the subject of the night by noted Anglican pastors, theologians and lay people with a wide diveristy of ethnicity and backgrounds, and small-group time where questions are welcomed and discussed.
So what are the topics discussed and when?
What if I can't make them all? Come to whatever portion you can. Each unit is somewhat self-contained. I'm concerned - I don't know much about church or the Bible or Jesus. That's fine! The program is designed to let you experience what the Episcopal Church has to offer in a non-threatening, educational and entertaining way. Will I be pressured to "Convert?" The Anglican ethos is one that emphasizes the work of the Holy Spirit over our own work. If you are drawn to join us, we are glad to have you. If not, we hope that this program will strengthen you in whatever faith journey you decide upon. Absolutely no pressure will be applied - you can participate at whatever level you are comfortable with. There are no "Altar Calls." What does it cost? It's absolutely FREE! Where is this going to be held? The parish hall of St. John's Episcopal Church, 1620 W. Main St. within easy walking distance from the MSU campus. You can get a map from MapQuest by clicking here. I have other questions.... That's great. You are welcome to e-mail me questions at david@askthepriest.org. You can also call our church office at (270) 753-6908. In addition, there are a few web sites below that might have the answers you are looking for. I hope to see you at Via Media at St. John's Episcopal Church!
St. John's Episcopal Church website - http://www.stjohnsmurray.org MSU Canterbury Club Website - http://msu.askthepriest.org Murray Theology on Tap - http://tot.askthepriest.org National Episcopal Church Web Site - http://ecusa.anglican.org Anglican Communion Web Site - http://www.anglicancommunion.org/ Anglicans Online - http://anglicansonline.org/ EveryVoice network - http://www.everyvoice.net Peek through the window of the Episcopal Church - http://www.pttw.org/
|
David
Simmons, Vicar & College Chaplain
Free web counter provided by: http://www.digits.com/