Bev Smith said it was “Just a talk” but the Maunu congregation were most impressed by her first preaching effort. Having been asked by the Team to share her broad experience of work in this area, Bev prepared a thoughtful and stimulating address which challenged us to move beyond individualistic Christianity to being vitally connected to our communities. Here’s the sermon Social-Justice-Bev-Smith

After the service the Team (and Bev!) spent time with the new LSM guidelines for preachers, which Auckland Enablers have copies of for all preachers.

An interesting reflection emerged: when one has been immersed in a 21st century set of concerns, there is an odd experience of disjuncture when suddenly lurching into a recitation of the optional Nicene Creed with its 4th Century concerns. As one participant said, “It’s like, ‘Now back to the Rule Book'”. Or, as I have secretly thought on occasion “No need to think about that any further, just allow this soothing Creed to wash over you instead.”

Sometimes (often?) it’s better just to have a time of silent reflection. Of course, you could utilise the “Liturgical Affirmation” on p.481 with its more relevant statement: “You empower us to be your Gospel in the world.”

If you are creating liturgy to suit an occasion for highlighting Social Justice, I like this affirmation which includes the words

“We are called to be the Church:

to celebrate God’s presence,

to live with respect in Creation,

to love and serve others,

to seek justice and resist evil,

to proclaim Jesus, crucified and risen,

our judge and our hope.”

– Ian