Pulpit To Pew

In this episode, Rev. Gibson and Johnny Gwin dive deep into the Book of Ruth. This short book but long story details the lives, hardships, and redemption of Ruth, Naomi, Boaz, and the early lineage of King David and eventually Jesus. Within its narrative and lessons, we learn of Ruth as a powerful and resilient woman who represents the threshold of grief and hope. Ruth is the biblical gold standard of loyalty and self-sacrifice. Her story is one of hope, faith, and the power of love overcoming fear and violence to make all things new. Her self-giving and loyal actions have been an inspiration to millions of Christians, Jews, writers, and artists. You should really get to know Ruth. Readings: Ruth 3:1-5; 4:13-17Hebrews 9:24-28Mark 12:38-44 About Pulpit To Pew Pulpit to Pew is a conversation between priest and parishioner, to understand how the message translates and to explore further the weekly Sunday sermon and lessons within the Episcopal tradition and daily life. Learn more about Christ Church Cathedral. Please come and worship with us every Sunday at 10 am (central) Pulpit To Pew is a Christ Church Cathedral and Deep Fried Studios collaboration.

  There are so many secular views of what Heaven may be. Most are child-like, non-theological and created with comforting imagination. No one knows the real Heaven, but God's Kingdom is described in many ways throughout the Old and New Testament. In this episode, Rev. Gibson and Johnny discuss the secular and sacred nature of Heaven and the New Jerusalem. Where is Heaven? When is Heaven? Heaven is a real place created by God for his People, and Its ultimate end is not floating in the ether but is made new and fully here in the present. Plus, Rev. Gibson explains the Church's view of the Saints, the dearly departed, and their connection to us and the presence of God. Key Takeaways > Heaven described in Isaiah and Revelation is a goal and vision. A vision that shapes us in this broken world to have hope so we can participate with God to work to heal it, recreate it, and make it new and whole. > All the things and people that have been created by God continue in Him. > Prayers to the Saints and to our loved ones in the Cloud of Witnesses lift us up and unify us to the Divine and strengthens our unity as a community gathered in Christ. > We do not come to God, he comes to us. > New life comes from God's power over death. Readings: Isaiah 25:6-9 Revelation 21:1-6aJohn 11:32-44 About Pulpit To Pew Pulpit to Pew is a conversation between priest and parishioner, to understand how the message translates and to explore further the weekly Sunday sermon and lessons within the Episcopal tradition and daily life. Learn more about Christ Church Cathedral. Please come and worship with us every Sunday at 10 am (central) Pulpit To Pew is a Christ Church Cathedral and Deep Fried Studios collaboration.

In this episode, Rev. Gibson and Johnny discuss the Disciples and their constant and almost comical chronic misunderstanding of Jesus's teachings of humility and prophecy of his tragic suffering and crucifixion. Jesus preached a message of extreme service and sacrifice for others. Yet, just like us, the Disciples frequently fell to ego, earthly desires and pride. This week's show focuses on defeating the ego, never forgetting your mission, a lifetime of learning, embracing the mindset of the eternal student, and silencing the talk, talk, talk in our heads. Rev. Gibson shares the insights of Ryan Holiday, and his book Ego Is The Enemy and the many lessons within its covers. Metallic, Megadeath, Gilda Radner and Marlon Brando are all discussed, and Johnny can't quit talking about Season 3 of Netflix's Daredevil series. The key takeaway from this installment of Pulpit to Pew: silencing our ego and embracing this "silence" creates a space for God's work to be done within us and in the world. This silence starts by accepting the reality of the present, exercising humility, following the acts of Jesus, and putting our calling before our being. Enjoy the show! Resources: Ego Is The Enemy - by Ryan Holiday CLICK HERE TO BUY THE BOOK   Readings: Job 38:1-7, (34-41)Hebrews 5:1-10Mark 10:35-45 About Pulpit To Pew Pulpit to Pew is a conversation between priest and parishioner, to understand how the message translates and to explore further the weekly Sunday sermon and lessons within the Episcopal tradition and daily life. Learn more about Christ Church Cathedral. Please come and worship with us every Sunday at 10 am (central) Pulpit To Pew is a Christ Church Cathedral and Deep Fried Studios collaboration.

No one prays to God to be "tested"? Usually, we pray to be shielded from such trying times. Does God test us? Rev. Beverly Gibson discusses her belief that God does, and why asking to be tested can be a blessing. Johnny Gwin inquires about the life of Job and the lessons that his example can teach us. Also, Rev. Gibson talks about the Church's, society's, and her views on the tragedy and trauma of divorce. There is growth in suffering. Relationships and bonds are tried and forged in the hardest of times. How can we create positive outcomes from pain and tragedy? Lastly, Jesus (in his constant testing by the Pharisees) shows us how to expect the law but to dig deeper into its meaning and purpose. Be more than followers of the rules. Recognize the suffering of others, be compassionate, humble, and do not fall into the trap of the hardness of heart.   Readings: Job 1:1; 2:1-10Psalm 26 Hebrews 1:1-4; 2:5-12Mark 10:2-16 About Pulpit To Pew Pulpit to Pew is a conversation between priest and parishioner, to understand how the message translates and to explore further the weekly Sunday sermon and lessons within the Episcopal tradition and daily life. Learn more about Christ Church Cathedral. Please come and worship with us every Sunday at 10 am (central) Pulpit To Pew is a Christ Church Cathedral and Deep Fried Studios collaboration.  

In this episode, Rev. Beverly Gibson and Johnny Gwin discuss the weekly lectionary lessons and Rev. Marshal Craver's beautiful sermon on how we can be set free of our addictions. Jesus loves us regardless of our faults, sins, and fixations (good and bad). He wants us to be free of the servitude of unhealthy obsessions, and our devotion to the wrong things. Assigning too much attachment to "things" erodes our freedom and harms our relationship with God, others who depend on you, our neighbors, and our community. Truth, humility, compassion, and the ability to ask for help are the holy multitool for cutting out the habit of assigning too much devotion to the things that can become a barrier to becoming the person who we want to be, and who God made us to be. We all have our golden calf or banana in a coconut. We hold on to those things very tight. However, for real transformation, we must work to strike our addictions with a sword, dig deeper, and do more than stop our actions. We must change our hearts. Readings: Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22James 5:13-20Mark 9:38-50 About Pulpit To Pew Pulpit to Pew is a conversation between priest and parishioner, to understand how the message translates and to explore further the weekly Sunday sermon and lessons within the Episcopal tradition and daily life. Learn more about Christ Church Cathedral. Please come and worship with us every Sunday at 10 am (central) Pulpit To Pew is a Christ Church Cathedral and Deep Fried Studios collaboration.

In this episode, Rev. Beverly Gibson and Johnny Gwin talk about the nature and identity of "the wicked" and the creation and summoning of Death. Who is The Righteous Man from the Wisdom of Solomon, and why is he reviled as "inconvenient"? What does the 1982 Disney film, Something Wicked This Way Comes, have to teach us about humility, courage, facing our shadow selves, and drawing closer to God? Drawing closer to God starts with us inviting God to be present more in our lives and practicing this purposeful action will bring more light and peace into our dark and shadowy world. Key Takeaways: The Wisdom Literature of the Bible is an excellent guide for the faithful to explore the nature of righteous living. Our arch-enemies are not always external. Most of our biggest struggles and conflicts stem from the darkest (and unknown) parts of ourselves. Look inward to find our true selves that can fully participate in a life with God. Drawing closer to God can start by bringing our "Sunday Selves" to our Monday morning lives. Embracing righteousness, humility and sharing God's light repels the "the wicked" around us that is summoned by the World. Readings: Wisdom of Solomon 1:16-2:1, 12-22 James 3:13-4:3, 7-8aMark 9:30-37   Resources: Something Wicked This Way Comes - Film (1982) Ray Bradbury Waiting For My Real Life - Colin Hay Documentary    About Pulpit To Pew Pulpit to Pew is a conversation between priest and parishioner, to understand how the message translates and to explore further the weekly Sunday sermon and lessons within the Episcopal tradition and daily life. Click here to learn more about Christ Church Cathedral. Please come and worship with us every Sunday at 10 am (central) Pulpit To Pew is a Christ Church Cathedral and Deep Fried Studios collaboration.  

It is said that last week's lesson can be fearful for the Priest and send them into fits of trembling. Plus, according to Rev. Gibson, most of the ears in the pews don't want to hear the hard lessons of Mark 8:27-38. How does the world see Jesus? How did the disciples see Jesus? How do we see Jesus? Jesus's story and mission pivot at this point of Mark's Gospel and he has to deliver a hard message of what is going to happen to him. What is going to happen to anyone that picks up their cross and follows him? Ridicule, suffering, and death. Not the message his entourage wanted to hear, especially Peter. Then like now, spreading the message of Jesus is hard when the lessons focus on self-denial and sacrifice instead of success and abundance. Truly following Jesus as a disciple in this world is hard, uncomfortable, deep, and dangerous. If we choose to walk with Jesus on his mission the first step is assessing how we see and experience him. How do we see Church and its place in our life? What is truly important in life and what worldly things must we deny ourselves for spiritual growth?   Readings: Isaiah 50:4-9aPsalm 116:1-8James 3:1-12Mark 8:27-38 Resources: Of Gods and Men - Film   About Pulpit To Pew Pulpit to Pew is a conversation between priest and parishioner, to understand how the message translates and to explore further the weekly Sunday sermon and lessons within the Episcopal tradition and daily life. Click here to learn more about Christ Church Cathedral. Please come and worship with us every Sunday at 10 am (central) Pulpit To Pew is a Christ Church Cathedral and Deep Fried Studios collaboration.

All desires are not the same. There are the personal wants and desires, and then there is God's desire for us. God longs for us and wants us to be connected to him and those around us. Are your and God's desires aligned? How would you know? When our hopes and wants align with God's calling that is called the "heart's desire". Jesus healed the deaf and mute man in Tyre so that he could hear and speak clearly. Are we clearly listening to what God wants from us? And when we have unearthed our "heart's desire" are we expressing that with genuine "heart" in our words and actions? In this episode, Rev. Gibson and Johnny Gwin discuss the nature of delighting in the Lord, faith, longing, transformation, and getting the most out of Church.  Resources: Psalm 37:4 As Kingfishers Catch Fire - By Gerard Manley Hopkins Readings: Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23James 2:1-10, [11-13], 14-17Mark 7:24-37 About Pulpit To Pew Pulpit to Pew is a conversation between priest and parishioner, to understand how the message translates and to explore further the weekly Sunday sermon and lessons within the Episcopal tradition and daily life. Click here to learn more about Christ Church Cathedral. Please come and worship with us every Sunday at 10 am (central) Pulpit To Pew is a Christ Church Cathedral and Deep Fried Studios collaboration.

Hello my fellow Pew People, it's FOOTBALL SEASON in the South and tis' the season to wear our favorite team apparel, avoid our rival team neighbors and family members and LIKE me last Sunday - miss Sunday Service. So, my playing hooky from Church as well as Rev. Gibson having a bye week from the Pulpit this weekend and the need for a PuIpit To Pew show I dug thru the P2P vaults of unused show tape and found some relevant instant replays. Bonus: a tape with a personal confession, or personal foul (OK...last football pun!) dealing with my struggles of prioritizing the bigger things in life and allowing uncontrollable, external and small things to get in the way of me best the best version of myself. The self that that doesn't just talk like a person in the Way of Christ but acts that way as well. Especially one that doesn't embarrass himself in front of my sweet and wonderful Grandmother. Again, I am so sorry about last Iron Bowl Grandma Clayton. I hope you enjoy this candid conversation between parishioner and priest...actually it's more than that. Rev. Gibson has been my co-host of Pulpit To Pew now for 2 1/2 years and we have developed an off the mic friendship. Well, I think so, it's hard to tell because Beverly is such a very nice person in general. Anyway...I consider her a trusted friend and steady voice - not just my spiritual sherpa. I mention this because most of my favorite podcasts are more than interviews and information. Great podcasts feel like personal and interesting conversations not in a studio but over a meal or wine. Conversations I want to eavesdrop on when I am sitting next to an animated couple or table full of rowdy friends next to me at a restaurant - or even better a BAR. I think this episode really nails this type of podcast format. The title of this podcast - College Football Vs. Church is a bit cheeky but Beverly and I touch on some very big issues about Scripture, the role of the Church, dealing with our neighbors (good and not-so-good), and walking the Christian talk. Have a great football season and let's all try to remember that some things are bigger than mascots, school ties, team slogans, and bitter rivalries. Saturday is for team colors and fun but we should all recognize that we are on the same team on Sunday. Enjoy the show! - Johnny Gwin  

In this episode, Rev. Gibson concludes the final hard lessons of the Bread Of Life Discourse (John 6:56-69) and delves into Paul's Armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-20) letter to the Ephesians. Jesus's words and ideas challenged, confused and ran off many of his early disciples. What would it take for you to walk away from Jesus? Or, your Church? What about eternal life confuses and makes others uncomfortable? What are the rulers, authorities, and roaming spirits of evil are you letting into the interior of your life? Rev. Gibson suggests that we all need to try to break away from daily negative influences, take time, and create a quiet space to contemplate higher thoughts and things that challenge our beliefs, habits, and mindset. Spiritual growth comes from being aware of what we take in mentally and spiritually, continuous learning, listening not just hearing, and silencing negative voices and powers that can knock you off your path.   Resources: Marcus Aurelius Earl Nightingale - The Strangest Secret Readings: 1 Kings 8:[1, 6, 10-11], 22-30, 41-43Psalm 84Ephesians 6:10-20John 6:56-69 About Pulpit To Pew Pulpit to Pew is a conversation between priest and parishioner, to understand how the message translates and to explore further the weekly Sunday sermon and lessons within the Episcopal tradition and daily life. Click here to learn more about Christ Church Cathedral. Please come and worship with us every Sunday at 10 am (central) Pulpit To Pew is a Christ Church Cathedral and Deep Fried Studios collaboration. Engineered, edited, and produced by Johnny Gwin

In moments of difficulty, most people will cling to their past, become apathetic, disoriented, and cease to stop going forward in life, goals, and projects. Meriwether Lewis (of Lewis and Clark) ran into mountains on his canoe expedition to the Pacific Ocean in 1805. A heartbroken Lewis shook off his frustration, regrouped, led his team out of their canoes, reframed his vision, trusted his training and found a way to fulfill his mission. In the Bread of Life Discourse, Jesus asked the audience to see a new way to understand God. Many listening rejected this radical message but many were open to Jesus' shocking message of a loving God and eternal life through accepting him as a new "Bread of Life." Most things in life rarely turn out like it was planned and predicted. Ideas and new information challenge our views, perceptions, and beliefs. When reality stands in the way of our hopes, completing important work or reaching a final destination we have 2 choices. One, we can quit! Or, we can shake off the disappointment, evaluate the situation, relook at the intended plan, and be open to learning new ways of moving forward into uncharted territory. Instead of certain disappointment from falling short of your intended mission, when chosing a new path, you might be surprised by the outcomes and revelations that come from your courage and discovery.   Key Takeaways: > When your plans, hopes, and beliefs are crushed by reality and things seem out of your control you need to reframe your mission, let go of the past, be open to learning something new and have the courage to "figure it out as you go". > Define your mission and core values. For Christians, it's having a loving relationship with God that is alive and ever expanding. Plus, we are to share that joy and love with others. > The Church is rich in history, traditions, and time-honored forms but if The Church (or it's people) is not open to new ways of learning, growing, and connecting with others then we will see moments of difficulty. Resources: Canoeing The Mountains: Christian Leadership in Uncharted Territory  - by Tod Bolsinger Readings: 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14Psalm 111Ephesians 5:15-20John 6:51-58 About Pulpit To Pew Pulpit to Pew is a conversation between priest and parishioner, to understand how the message translates and to explore further the weekly Sunday sermon and lessons within the Episcopal tradition and daily life. Click here to learn more about Christ Church Cathedral. Please come and worship with us every Sunday at 10 am (central) Pulpit To Pew is a Christ Church Cathedral and Deep Fried Studios collaboration.

Most of us know a Bible is revered, sacred and important but is it alive to you and a part of your daily life? In this episode, Rev. Gibson and parishioner Johnny Gwin explore Keri Smith's Wreck This Journal, Eugene Peterson's Eat This Book, John The Divine's eating of a sacred scroll, Jesus's Bread of Life Discourse and discusses meditating, consuming, and metabolizing the Word of God. From cover to cover The Bible's teachings, words and actions offer a lifetime all-you-can-eat buffet of spiritual nourishment that can expand our faith, reveal the endless world of God's love, and enrich our lives. Let's take our Bible's off our dusty shelves, devour it's teaching, and share its strength with others.   Readings: 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33Ephesians 4:25-5:2John 6:35, 41-51 Resources: Wreck This Journal - by Keri Smith Eat This Book - by Eugene Peterson   About Pulpit To Pew Pulpit to Pew is a conversation between priest and parishioner, to understand how the message translates and to explore further the weekly Sunday sermon and lessons within the Episcopal tradition and daily life. Click here to learn more about Christ Church Cathedral. Please come and worship with us every Sunday at 10 am (central) Pulpit To Pew is a Christ Church Cathedral and Deep Fried Studios collaboration.  

Download | Subscribe  In this episode, Rev. Gibson discusses her lifelong love of reading, her admiration of educator and author Samuel Holt Monk, Nathan confronting King David, Midrash, and the lessons from the Bread of Life Discourse. Kind David needed the intervention of Nathan's Rich Man/Poor Man story of the Ewe to be enlightened about his abuse of power and sinful acts concerning Bathsheba and Uriah. Jesus taught his high concepts and holy ideas to his followers in simple stories and parables so they would be able to grasp his promise of "something more" with Him and the Bread of Life. Reading and hearing stories allows us a way to see ourselves in the mirror of narrative, events, and characters. This "seeing yourself" can aid us in the awareness of understanding our true selves and how we interact with the world around us. Am I the rich man, or the poor man? Am I the hero, or the villain? This reciprocal internal and external self-examination (and realization) from literature, more specifically scripture, has a name - Midrash. Midrash is not some "new age" spiritual trend; it's an age-old rabbinical teaching method of interpreting and learning from the people, context, and lessons found in Scripture. Midrash asks us to look deeper into our shared stories to find a personal connection from the written word to our modern daily lives. Rev. Gibson points out that Midrash is not just used with spiritual texts, educators like Samual Holt Monk also reveal this type of learning in their critical analysis and works of secular literature and satire. Knowing ourselves, uncovering our blind spots, or answering a spiritual question can come in many forms, but we must be open to hearing the truth. Are you listening and looking for these revelations in Scripture or any other literature? Seeing ourselves in the life of Jesus and imitating his actions are some big steps in walking in the Way of Christ. Realizing our actions that aren't like Christ are even bigger. Readings: 2 Samuel 11:26-12:13aPsalm 51:1-13Ephesians 4:1-16John 6:24-35 About Pulpit To Pew Pulpit to Pew is a conversation between priest and parishioner, to understand how the message translates and to explore further the weekly Sunday sermon and lessons within the Episcopal tradition and daily life. Click here to learn more about Christ Church Cathedral. Please come and worship with us every Sunday at 10 am (central) Pulpit To Pew is a Christ Church Cathedral and Deep Fried Studios collaboration.

In John's Gospel of the loaves and fish feeding the multitudes (John 6:1-14) Jesus felt the need to feed the 5000 followers waiting to hear him speak because he knew they were hungry. Transforming 5 loaves of bread and 2 fish into a horde of food fed those followers physically but also spiritually. His loving gesture and service filled their bellies but it also nourished the belief, faith, and commitment. The bounty and scarcity of food have always been so important our BC and AD human existence and evolution. Today, and a little closer to our own lives - the passion for making and serving others genuine food might be engrained in our Southern DNA. Heck, it's practically another religion in these parts. John T. Edge explores this shared Southern food culture and history with his research and southern food stories in his book The Potlikker Papers. Food is a common thread and a powerful force in our lives and community. It's one of life's necessities but it can also be symbolic, unifying, and a kindness (watch neighbors start cooking when news of a tragedy or death befalls their community.) Jesus knew the power of nourishment and sharing a meal to communicate and connect with others, he did it quite often throughout the New Testament. On that mountain next to the Sea of Galilee his actions and role of cook and server to nourish his 5000 followers is no small miracle or lesson. With little resources, so much abundance was created that salvage needed to be carefully collected so nothing went to waste. All in attendance were invited to that table and everyone had their fill. Jesus fed his flock in the same life-giving way that God fed the Israelites in the desert. Are we preparing and serving healthy nourishment to multitudes of others? Are we properly feeding the shared lives of ourselves, family, church, and community? Are you the cook, the server, the guest, or the stranger that feels left out? As Southerners, we pride ourselves on our genuine hospitality, but is it genuine? Are we equally open and welcoming to all and is everyone invited to our bountiful table? In our fast food world of spirituality, if we want to follow the Way of Christ and consciously nourish the lives of others, then we must create a culture that values preparing and offering a welcoming table of love, faith and real connection to anyone who seeks to be fed. Do you know your role in this powerful and sacred act? Resources: The Potlikker Papers: A Food History of the Modern South - By John T. Edge  The Bitter Southerner   Readings: 2 Samuel 11:1-15Ephesians 3:14-21John 6:1-21   About Pulpit To Pew Pulpit to Pew is a conversation between priest and parishioner, to understand how the message translates and to explore further the weekly Sunday sermon and lessons within the Episcopal tradition and daily life. Click here to learn more about Christ Church Cathedral. Please come and worship with us every Sunday at 10 am (central) Pulpit To Pew is a Christ Church Cathedral and Deep Fried Studios collaboration

In this episode, Rev. Gibson and Johnny talk about seeking refuge, making a place to dream and pray, and how we must make ourselves a dwelling place for the Lord. Johnny goes on his own Indiana Jones search for the location of the Ark of the Covenant and Beverly shares her vacation stories and insights from Arkansas, Christ of the Ozarks, and Thorncrown Chapel. Rev. Gibson's sermon this weekend focuses heavily on the inspiration of the safe and purposeful space of Thorncrown Chapel. This beautiful and peaceful sacred tourist destination that offers travelers and guests tranquility and inspiration for a guest to worship, look inward, rest and dream. Who are monuments and buildings of worship like Thorncrown Chapel and Christ of the Ozarks built for, God or his us? Beverly and Johnny explore the nature and our need for these architectural and spiritual havens, portals, and locations. To round out this show Rev. Gibson discusses the universal quest many have to find shelter and peace in this noisy and disruptive world. For Christians, many of us seek a closer relationship with Christ for this sense of wholeness, refuge, and peace. Are we honoring this mission by purposely acknowledging that the architecture of our faith is built on the foundation of the Saints with Christ is our cornerstone? Christ unifies us into a new humanity and Kingdom. If we can create the right environment to feel safe, dream, and be open to transformation we can cease becoming aliens and strangers and find our rightful place as a full citizen of Christ. Readings: 2 Samuel 7:1-14aEphesians 2:11-22Mark 6:30-34, 53-56 Resources: Thorncrown Chapel The Poetics of Space by Gaston Bachelard Shelter From The Storm by Bob Dylan In the Land of Sheba: A Pilgrimage to Ethiopia by Eliza Griswold   About Pulpit To Pew Pulpit to Pew is a conversation between priest and parishioner, to understand how the message translates and to explore further the weekly Sunday sermon and lessons within the Episcopal tradition and daily life. Click here to learn more about Christ Church Cathedral. Please come and worship with us every Sunday at 10 am (central) Pulpit To Pew is a Christ Church Cathedral and Deep Fried Studios collaboration

In this episode, inspired by Groucho Marx (and Rev. Gibson being on vacation), we have pulled audio out of the well-guarded archive vaults of Pulpit To Pew and Deep Fried Studios. Rev. Gibson and Johnny Gwin discuss the intriguing Old Testament scripture, ancient archeology, and spiritual mystery of Moses' death and disputed location of his tomb. We hope you enjoy this short Pulpit To Pew episode and after listening to this podcast if someone tries to quiz you on the whereabouts of Moses' tomb you can smartly say, "God only knows." Resources: The Unknown yet Known Place of Moses’ Burial Why are the circumstances of the death of Moses so mysterious?   About Pulpit To Pew Pulpit to Pew is a conversation between priest and parishioner, to understand how the message translates and to explore further the weekly Sunday sermon and lessons within the Episcopal tradition and daily life. Click here to learn more about Christ Church Cathedral. Please come and worship with us every Sunday at 10 am (central) Pulpit To Pew is a Christ Church Cathedral and Deep Fried Studios collaboration  

Inspired by David's Song of the Bow written in the throes of grief due to the death of King Saul and Jonathon, in this episode Rev. Gibson and Johnny discuss the nature of grief and it's power on artists as a spark of creativity. From Milton to Donne, to David Bowie and Warren Zevon artists throughout history have created some of their greatest works by venting their sorrow or deciphering their feelings about death in poems, song, painting, and literature. Can death be defeated? What does our understanding of Jesus's life and death show us about our perspective of death and grief? Resources: 2 Samuel 1:17-27 Two recent nonfiction books: Nina Riggs - The Bright Hour (2018) Paul Kalanithi - When Breath Becomes Air (2016) Poems: John Milton “Lycidas” (1638) Alfred Lord Tennyson - In Memoriam (1849) Ben Jonson, “On my first son” (1603) William Wordsworth, “Surprised by joy” (1815) John Donne “Divine Meditations” sonnet #10, “Death be not proud” (1635) Donne’s poem references 1 Corinthians 15:26, 54. Music: David Bowie - Blackstar Warren Zevon - The Wind Eric Clapton - Tears In Heaven  

This episode is centered on just some kids, their lives, times, struggles, creations and significant influences on the world. Rev. Gibson (struggling thru a summer head cold) discusses her theological connectivity of a young King David, Jesus, his disciples, and punk-poet Patti Smith. All these luminaries found themselves (voluntarily and involuntarily) in a new world of suffering, pain, fear, and violence and on their journey, they all endured and eventually created something important, transformative and beautiful out of the mess all around them. On a boat tossing and turning in a storm Jesus saved his friends and questioned them, "Why are you afraid? Have you no faith?". With what all that these young Disciples had seen how did they not have the conviction to be brave in the storm and trust Jesus and their divine mission? Why did wanna be artist, poet, and musician Patti Smith know that to follow her dream she had to courageously leave the comfort of her small hometown and stick with her plan in the big, scary, dangerous, and gritty city of New York City in 1967? These stories and lessons remind us to look at our desires, values, faith, grit, and convictions needed to propel us forward to follow the unseen path that God has set out for us. It's said that God acts in the chaos and his plans for us is one of slow change. If this is the case, for us to be one of his collaborators we must be patient, open to opportunity, trusting, committed and have a willingness to get our hands deep, down and dirty in the mess and chaos.   Readings 1 Samuel 17: (1a, 4-11, 19-23), 32-49 2 Corinthians 6:1-13 Mark 4:35-41   Resources: Patti Smith - Just Kids (Autobiography) Eugene Peterson Pierre Teilhard de Chardin - Trust In The Slow Work of God    About Pulpit To Pew Pulpit to Pew is a conversation between priest and parishioner, to understand how the message translates and to explore further the weekly Sunday sermon and lessons within the Episcopal tradition and daily life. Click here to learn more about Christ Church Cathedral. Please come and worship with us every Sunday at 10 am (central) Pulpit To Pew is a Christ Church Cathedral and Deep Fried Studios collaboration

Paul writes in last week's epistle "we walk by faith, and not by sight", what does this mean for those where faith is their point of view? Rev. Beverly Gibson and Johnny discuss Divine vision and how humans can not see the hearts of others or beyond the limited vision of the "right now." While we may not be able to see the hearts of others, we can learn to evaluate our own and then discern the real values and things that matter to us in our past, present and future. This examination along with simply living, humility, compassion, and love of neighbor are the proverbial "mustard seeds" that must take root in ways seen and unseen to help our polarized world adopt the "New Creation", the Kingdom of Heaven point of view. This core of a life in faith can be found in Scripture and all of Jesus's teachings, but we have to be open and able to hear it.   Readings: 1 Samuel 15:34-16:132 Corinthians 5:6-10,[11-13],14-17Mark 4:26-34  Resources: Richard Rohr   About Pulpit To Pew Pulpit to Pew is a conversation between priest and parishioner, to understand how the message translates and to explore further the weekly Sunday sermon and lessons within the Episcopal tradition and daily life. Click here to learn more about Christ Church Cathedral. Please come and worship with us every Sunday at 10 am (central) Pulpit To Pew is a Christ Church Cathedral and Deep Fried Studios collaboration

In this episode, Johnny Gwin asks Rev. Gibson to discuss the meaning of "hearing God" and how modern society views this prevalent, misunderstood and ridiculed phenomenon. Historically, many have spoken of hearing God. Hearing the words and actual voice of God are well documented throughout the Bible. Anecdotally and culturally many have said that God's voice and presence can be heard in unique, personal and creative ways such as music, nature, earthquakes, deep space and even simple vibrations. Beethoven once said that "music was a fuller way to God." Samuel Taylor Coleridge waxed poetically about the sound of the divine in nature and God's presence in the wind across the string of a beautiful harp. The writer Tilden Edwards in his book Living in the Presence: Disciplines for the Spiritual Heart focuses on the awareness of God all around us especially in the dimension of sound and silence. Shared stories across many religious traditions have mentioned hearing and experiencing the Godhead through common things such as bells, drums, horns, and chants. Hearing God is a more common human experience than many believe and can arrive in a plethora of unique and beautiful forms. So, the next time someone speaks of "hearing God," Rev. Gibson advises we would be well not to judge so quickly or take that person's words too literally. Resources: The Eolian Harp by Samual Taylor Coleridge Living in the Presence: Spiritual Exercises to Open Our Lives to the Awareness of God by Tilden Edwards   About Pulpit To Pew Pulpit to Pew is a conversation between priest and parishioner, to understand how the message translates and to explore further the weekly Sunday sermon and lessons within the Episcopal tradition and daily life. Click here learn more about Christ Church Cathedral. Please come and worship with us every Sunday at 10 am (central) Pulpit To Pew is a Christ Church Cathedral and Deep Fried Studios collaboration.

You would think that honoring the Sabbath would be engrained into the human DNA. It's been a part of our existence since God took the 7th day off after creating the universe. Even though God made "Keep Holy The Sabbath" the 4th of his Ten Commandments it still seems humankind has a hard time honoring this gift of a day of rest, peace and reflection. The cultural phenomenon of constant hustle and radical distraction seems to creep into almost all of our quiet and introspective time, and that includes all of our Sabbaths. This perpetual busyness and ignoring of the Lord's day of rest is a pattern that can be decaying our relationship with God, each other and ourselves. Maybe it's time we all took a step back and relooked at what the Sabbath is meant to be. This "day of rest" was given to humankind not as a rule but as a gift from God for us to have a protective time and space for us to open to new things and hear the small voices and inner wisdom. The Sabbath is more than a day on the calendar; it can be a powerful tool for deep listening, inner peace, rest, rejuvenation, and active worship that cultivates what is precious in our life and guides our fruitful work with wisdom. Resetting our Sabbath rhythms and allowing it to come to us come can be a transformative beginning to a stronger connection to the Divine and a whole new way of being. Readings: 1 Samuel 3:1-10(11-20)2 Corinthians 4:5-12Mark 2:23-3:6 Resources: Jane Kenyan - Let Evening Come Wayne Muller - Sabbath Thomas Merton - Conjectures of a Guilty Bystander   About Pulpit To Pew Pulpit to Pew is a conversation between priest and parishioner, to understand how the message translates and to explore further the weekly Sunday sermon and lessons within the Episcopal tradition and daily life. Click here learn more about Christ Church Cathedral. Please come and worship with us every Sunday at 10 am (central) Pulpit To Pew is a Christ Church Cathedral and Deep Fried Studios collaboration.  

In this episode, Rev. Beverly Gibson expounds on the main points of Rev. Craver's Trinity Sunday Sermon dealing with the nature and the mystery of the Holy Trinity. St. Augustine is quoted saying “If you try to understand the Trinity, you will lose your mind. But if you deny the Trinity, you will lose your soul.” If this grand theological thinker feels this way it seems we all must be in the dark concerning this powerful foundation of our faith. Why are all the common descriptive metaphoric examples of the Trinity flawed? Why is the Holy Trinity so important to our faith? How does this mystical element of our faith affect our daily lives? Leaning heavily on the work of Episcopal Priest and Spiritual Writer Cynthia Bourgeault, Rev. Gibson shares a unique Trinity description of "a process" and "a drivetrain" from the book The Holy Trinity and the Law of Three: Discovering the Radical Truth at the Heart of Christianity. Join us as we dive into this fascinating, unthinkable but knowable divine mystical force in our faith and life. Resources: Rev. Dr. Cynthia Bourgeault The Holy Trinity and the Law of Three: Discovering the Radical Truth at the Heart of Christianity   About Pulpit To Pew Pulpit to Pew is a conversation between priest and parishioner, to understand how the message translates and to explore further the weekly Sunday sermon and lessons within the Episcopal tradition and daily life. Click here learn more about Christ Church Cathedral. Please come and worship with us every Sunday at 10 am (central) Pulpit To Pew is a Christ Church Cathedral and Deep Fried Studios collaboration.  

In this episode, Reverend Beverly Gibson and parishioner Johnny Gwin discusses the gospel of the first Pentecost and explain the nature and power of the Holy Spirit, then and now. This Advocate, or the Holy Spirit, inspires and ignites us to go out into the world to share our faith, love, compassion, and understanding with others. First, the spirit moves within us and then evolves to send us on our travels through the arches of the world and into the great unknown. God's "new wine" presence is constantly with us and among us helping us to pray, lifting us up and moving us forward in all truth, daily life, and our worship. This force is not a corporate religious action to get us to "get things done," it's more of a submission to the reality God has placed us in and the spiritual quest we have been set on. The Advocate is a comforter and at the same time a mighty spark that guides us to spread our love, words, and actions to others like fire and wind to transform the world. Yes, Beverly and Johnny discuss the show-stopping Royal Wedding sermon ‘There’s power in love’ by Bishop Micheal Curry. What did you think of this high profile message of love? Readings: Acts 2:1-21 Romans 8:22-27 John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15 Resources: Bishop Michael Curry's Sermon Thanks for listening. Pulpit to Pew is a conversation between priest and parishioner, to understand how the message translates and to explore further the weekly Sunday sermon and lessons within the Episcopal tradition and daily life. Pulpit To Pew is a Christ Church Cathedral and Deep Fried Studios collaboration.  

Due to some things outside of our control this week we decided to rebroadcast one of the most listener-requested shows from 2016. We hope you enjoy this vintage Pulpit To Pew. In this episode, Rev. Gibson discusses the nature of obedience, Paul’s prison letters to Timothy, and the service reading of Luke’s Gospel. Plus Johnny shares his thoughts on Jesus and Paul's management styles and his correlation with singing the Blues and the readings of the Book of Lamentations. Key Takeway: The Good News is that God is with us, always. When the challenges we meet in life appear bigger than we can handle, we are to remember that God is handling them. We are just the obedient workers. God will give us more than we can ever deserve. It is God who powers our faith, God who works through our small actions to accomplish his great things, God whose presence and action should never be forgotten. Readings: Lamentations 1:1-6 Lamentations 3:19-26 2 Timothy 1:1-14 Luke 17:5-10 What do you think about Pulpit To Pew? We would love to hear what you think, or maybe what you would like us to talk about on an upcoming podcast. Email producer Stacy Wellborn at stacywellborn@gmail.com and join in the conversation. Like Pulpit To Pew Podcast? Here’s how you can help the show: 1. Like our Facebook Page 2. Subscribe to Pulpit To Pew on Apple iTunes (or Overcast App) 3. Rate and review the show on Apple iTunes This one helps us a ton – seriously! Thanks for listening and have a great and peaceful week.

Prayer is a creative act because it can create something new that was not there before. It can be much more than memorized verses and taught prayers. Maybe prayer can be listening for the Word the Spirit speaks through another voice. This ambient awareness and "being attuned" to this divine encounter shapes us and is an authentic direction for us to do the work that God has planned for our lives. Living, listening and moving with the Spirit is not easy to do in the hustle of our busy lives. This creative interaction with God takes participation, discipline, and patience. Growth can be found in a changing heart, but we have to be willing to be transformed and actively seek out new ways to encounter God in the world. Rev. Gibson suggests praying the Word for a week and see where this takes you. Next, listen for the Word the spirit speaks and then listen for the Spirit speaking through the voices of others. She hopes that you find something there for you that was not there before. Main Points: Can prayer be a creative act? How do we grow out of the places where we get stuck? Are we missing messages and visions from God? How can we participate in God's ongoing creative work of life? Resources: Mission St. Clare   Pulpit to Pew is a conversation between priest and parishioner, to understand how the message translates and to explore further the weekly Sunday sermon and lessons within the Episcopal tradition and daily life. Pulpit To Pew is a Christ Church Cathedral and Deep Fried Studios collaboration.  

Rev. Marshall Craver (Christ Church Cathedral) asks us to start looking and listening for the divine in all the everyday things in life, especially the mundane and small emergencies. He calls these events his "Please God Incidences". These prayerfully pleading moments can become transformative in reminding us aware of our relationship with (and need for) God. Jesus is the vine, his father is the vine grower and we are the branches. The sermon and gospel lessons illustrate our mutual and organic relationship with the divine and how it flows from our "being" and not just our "doing". Are we fruit-bearing branches? And if so, are we perennials or annuals? In life, there are no chance things and God is the center of everyday life, even if we realize it or not. Are we taking time to abide love, God, and the Sabbath in our over-crowded lives? Are we "centering down" and finding rest in God not only on Sunday but a little bit on a daily basis? Readings: Acts 8:26-40 1 John 4:7-21 John 15:1-8 Psalm 22:24-30 Pulpit to Pew is a conversation between priest and parishioner, to understand how the message translates and to explore further the weekly Sunday sermon and lessons within the Episcopal tradition and daily life. Pulpit To Pew is a Christ Church Cathedral and Deep Fried Studios collaboration.

In this episode, Rev. Beverly Gibson and Johnny Gwin discuss Bishop Kendrick's sermon illustrating the power of the name of Jesus and all of the ways we do and do not honor him when we use it. Plus, they examine the weekly lessons, themes, and readings. This week covers the topics of the necessity of love in power, inviting everyone to know Christ, showing our faith through truth and action, and the courage of declaring "I am Christian." Lastly, Rev. Gibson gives a behind the pulpit view of the events and orchestration of a Cathedral Celebration Sunday, the arrival of the Bishop, 6 Confirmations, and 3 Baptisms. This Broadway-like production is not just known to Christ Church Cathedral; most churches have very similar circumstances. Rev. Gibson shares how she struggles and tries to stay present during the Mass and the day with all of the movie parts and orchestration. Acts 4:5-12 1 John 3:16-24 John 10:11-18 Psalm 23 Pulpit to Pew is a conversation between priest and parishioner, to understand how the message translates and to explore further the weekly Sunday sermon and lessons within the Episcopal tradition and daily life. Pulpit To Pew is a Christ Church Cathedral and Deep Fried Studios collaboration.

Welcome back! Not to this podcast but a place away from the edges of life. These edges are the mundane, chaotic, and distracting elements of life. The things that keep us away from what William Butler Yeats called "the center" in his poem "The Second Coming." Due to the dismal state of the world after WW1 Yeats saw a world of despair writing that "the center cannot hold." His fatalistic view seems as relevant today as it was in his lifetime. How do we, as Christians, avoid this hopeless and fearful view of life? This Easter sermon Rev. Gibson reminds us that the risen Christ is our solid center in the circling chaos and darkness of the world. The light from an empty tomb guides us to carry on and "keep going" with the stuff and muck of life. We are reminded to stop looking for Jesus among the dead and go and see him among the living - where he reigns. We need to go into the world to demonstrate our light to the rest of the world. Rev. Gibson ends her sermon with a list of ideas from author and artist Austin Kleon to keep moving forward in life and hacks them for aiding us to follow Jesus. Easter is not a single day. It is a season, beginning on Easter Day and continuing for seven full weeks. During this week of weeks work to bring lasting beauty into a world that sometimes feels like it is falling into chaos and darkness. Readings Acts 10:34-43 1 Corinthians 15:1-11 or Mark 16:1-8 Pulpit to Pew is a conversation between priest and parishioner, to understand how the message translates and to explore further the weekly Sunday sermon and lessons within the Episcopal tradition and daily life.

In this episode, Rev. Gibson and Johnny Gwin discuss themes of the resurrection of the physical human body, unity with God, fellowship with others, doubt, walking in the light and 2 lb. miracles. Miracle lives, like those of Mary Lindsley Golden, are a reminder of the gift of life and our connection to God and each other. Baptism of these miracle lives (well...all lives) is a beginning journey for one but it is also a recharging physical action for all that witness and publicly announce promises made to God to spiritually shepherd and care for the child baptized. Have you ever read what you are actually promising in the Baptismal Covenant? These oaths are substantial and significant. This call and response oral contract is a verbal and philosophical description of what we believe. Unlike "Doubting" Thomas, we state our belief in God and resurrection without physical proof or scientific method. Why do we do this? Are we foolish not to demand "proof"? The (occasional) Baptismal Covenant and The Nicene Creed (we recite each Sunday) is not just a part of the Mass, it's a declaration of who we are. Pulpit to Pew is a conversation between priest and parishioner, to understand how the message translates and to explore further the weekly Sunday sermon and lessons within the Episcopal tradition and daily life.

In this episode, Rev. Gibson & Johnny Gwin discusses the routines, rituals, and readings from Palm Sunday at Christ Church Cathedral. Starting in the garden, reenacting Mark's dramatic Passion Play, striking the Alter and leaving the church (not our Holy Week service) in silence. Palm Sunday's powerful reading covered the Passion from the Gospel of Mark with all the emotions and parts we have heard so many times. The borrowed colt, 3 denials before the cock crows twice, the arrest, the trial, the weight of the cross, and finally the human death of the "God-Man." Jesus, the God sent to Earth and instead of wielding his power emptied himself in the body of a man - a servant that was humble and obedient all the way to his own death. Our "God-Man" on the Cross - the "Tree of Life" is the bridge between life, our hell (sin), and the connection to heaven - the love and presence of God. The enduring eternal love of God in the person of Jesus Christ - The God-Man on the Tree - is offered for all, even when we sin and imprison ourselves (and others) in Hell. God offers us the door into heaven. Jesus stands with his lantern knocking at your door that only opens from the inside. Will you open the door to Christ during these final days of Holy Week? Additional Topics: > The description and nature of Hell? > Was Judas forgiven for betraying Jesus? > Where does the term "God-Man" come from? > What is the Norse Mythology of the "Tree of Life"? > Who was Barrabbas and what became of him? > Insights and ideas to make the most out of the final week of Lent and the Easter Sunday celebration.   Weekly Readings: Isaiah 50:4-9a Philippians 2:5-11 Mark 14:1-15:47   Resources: Holman Hunt - Light of the World Painting   Pulpit to Pew is a conversation between priest and parishioner, to understand how the message translates and to explore further the weekly Sunday sermon and lessons within the Episcopal tradition and daily life.  

The recent passing of scientist Stephen Hawking prompted Rev. Gibson (Christ Church Cathedral - Episcopal) and parishioner Johnny Gwin to discuss faith, science, the power of the human brain, the purpose and need for God, forgiveness, and God's divine law written on our hearts. Hawking frequently wrote that his life's work of math, quantum physics and looking into the fearful darkness of the nature of black holes led him to not be afraid of the dark and to a mindset that humanity no longer needs to believe in God and a fairytale afterlife. In all of Hawking's scientific accomplishments and his heroic story of the human spirit and genius many Christians also see a tragic tale of a great human that failed his biggest test. Dr. Hawking's life of struggle is an inspiration to millions and his death is a loss to the world of science, family, friends, and fans. His passing is also a reminder that we all will have a final sunset and a meeting with that dark "unknown." We all should be inspired by men like Stephen Hawking by turning suffering into something beautiful and having the courage to not fear the darkness. However, as Christians, we are compelled to do more. We should continually be working to evolve into a new way of being by being repentant, seeking forgiveness of changed hearts and embracing the unknown darkness of the universe with the faith of a loving God that promises he will never leave those who ask for his mercy and divine life. Readings: Jeremiah 31:31-34 Hebrews 5:5-10 John 12:20-33 Psalm 51:1-13 Pulpit to Pew is a conversation between priest and parishioner, to understand how the message translates and to explore further the weekly Sunday sermon and lessons within the Episcopal tradition and daily life.

Rev. Beverly Gibson & Johnny Gwin discuss the lessons and readings from Laetare Sunday (fourth Sunday of Lent) covering the meaning of the Bronze Serpent of Numbers, our web of spiritual and physical connections in our lives, cosmic struggles, Oscar speeches, and God's grace. Rev. Gibson describes the ever-present, ever merciful love of God. Even when we act out of impatience and disobedience (like the Isrealites in the wilderness), God's loving response is grace and healing. In a world of struggle and sin, God collaborates with his followers personally and universally to raise us above the darkness and sin of the world. God did this by sending us the source of his "light", Jesus Christ. Jesus is the source of the deeds done in God in a world full of poisonous sin. Sending his only Son to be sacrificed on The Cross was not to condemn us but to save us from the snakes of our flaws and the ubiquitous "ruler of the air." We are not alone in this world and this is Good News. Why? Because all of life is a collaboration and God's mercy is our binding force and saving grace. Readings Numbers 21:4-9 Ephesians 2:1-10 John 3:14-21 Pulpit to Pew is a conversation between priest and parishioner, to understand how the message translates and to explore further the weekly Sunday sermon and lessons within the Episcopal tradition and daily life.

In this week's Pulpit To Pew, we discuss radical kinship, understanding through bewilderment, second chances, unconditional love, abiding in faith and the foolishness of following God's wisdom and The Cross. Jesus frequently used confusion and bewilderment as a means of teaching and leading his disciples to repentance and to metanoia. Metanoia is redemption by going beyond the present mind, to get past our fear and disorientation of the "choir" (hint: the choir is us), turning the corner and running into something new. This inner journey of metanoia pushes us to reach a new and extreme kinship with God and those around us. God gave the "whining" and unfaithful Israelites a second chance with a new covenant and 10 words of "Holy" clarity with the 10 Commandments. Jesus's disruptive action of cleansing the temple was a profound reorientation to seeing the nature of God and a new way to worship. Present day Jesuit priest and author of Barking At The Choir - The Power of Radical Kinship, Father Gregory Boyle lives and gives rise to redemptive second chances with his LA Gang Outreach Mission, Homeboy Industries. His community's stories and found connections demonstrate a new model of Church as a community of inclusive kinship, tenderness, and redemption. In a broken and chaotic world, Father Boyle advises for us to focus on the awe of the incredible gifts God has given us and instead of the judgment of others and our existing situations. We should look for the surprising beauty of receiving and giving second chances. By being open to rethinking our status quo and being on the lookout for ways to confound and deconstruct our reality we can be the foolishness of God's wisdom and the weakness of God's power. Confused? It's OK, this is a good thing.   Lectionary: Exodus 20:1-17 1 Corinthians 1:18-25 John 2:13-22   Resources: Homeboy Industries Barking To The Choir Father Gregory Boyle  Dr. Brenee Brown Sermon    

In this episode, Rev. Gibson shares her recollection and thoughts on this Sunday’s gospel lessons and Rev. Marshall Craver’s sermon. Rev. Craver’s sermon focused on faithfully following God’s plan, reversal of Divine Power, and the true nature of Jesus The Christ. In Mark's gospel, Peter refused to believe what Jesus was telling him when he revealed the prediction of the Passion. Jesus’s impending death on the Cross and his loving service to others is the opposite of our culture’s perception of God's power. Instead of Jesus being God’s dynamite, Jesus's life, death, and mission of self-sacrifice over self-power and active love over control are true examples of God’s reversal of Divine Power. This “theology of the cross” (not “theology of glory”) is rooted in God’s ever-present mercy, serving others instead of being served, and giving not grabbing represents the difficulty and high stakes of discipleship. Self-protection and self-promotion have no value in the life spent following Jesus. Only in losing the life the world values and having faith in God’s plan for us can we find the true life given to us as children of God. Weekly Readings: Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16 Romans 4:13-25 Mark 8:31-38   Thanks for listening. Please rate and review our show on iTunes.   Pulpit to Pew, a podcast that features a conversation between priest and parishioner, to understand how the message translates and to further explore the weekly lessons within the Episcopal tradition and daily life. Sponsor: Christ Church Cathedral (Episcopal) Recorded at Deep Fried Studios ~ Mobile, Alabama Produced by: Johnny Gwin

In this episode, Rev. Gibson discusses a two-fold movement from the life of Jesus from the Gospel of Mark that will characterize our whole experience of Lent. First, at Jesus' baptism, God expressed pleasure at who Jesus is -"You are my Son, the Beloved; with you, I am well pleased." Then, "immediately," Jesus was driven into the wilderness to undergo testing by Satan for forty days, a ritual of prophetic self-knowledge. Our Lenten forty days begins the exact same way: we are God's well-loved children, in whom God takes great pleasure. Then we are called to take the time to look inward and ask the tough questions of self-awareness in order to become who God calls us to be. What is our "wilderness"? A place that is free of distractions and gives you space to ask "who am I?" Plus, Rev. Gibson and Johnny explore the concept of being tested instead of "tempted" by those dark voices of denial and fear that find us when we quiet ourselves while searching for meaning and purpose. This "testing" can be a positive act to help us to fully get to know ourselves. We may stumble along the way on our Lenten journey but learning along the way, instead of feeling defeated, keeps us moving forward instead of giving up. Lastly, Rev. Gibson shares the ideas of Dr. Jordan Peterson from his book 12 Rules For Life, An Antidote To Chaos. In his book, Dr. Peterson suggests that we need to consider his rule #4: "compare yourself with who you were yesterday, not with who someone else is today." As long as we stay focused on our own plans and personal work, strengthening our relationship with God and each other, and walking the world with purpose our Lenten journey will be well worth the effort. Readings: Genesis 9:8-17 1 Peter 3:18-22 Mark 1:9-15 Resources: 12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos by Dr. Jordan Peterson

In this episode, Rev. Gibson talks about the nature of true freedom and liberty found in our life in Christ. What is this freedom so graciously given to us and what obligations does this new freedom come with? Just like the "mother-in-law" that was healed in Mark's gospel, Jesus frees us from the barriers and maladies that get in the way of sharing our work and the good news with others. What are we doing personally, and as a church community, to choose to use our calling and gifts to serve ourselves, others and the people around us? Johnny asks Rev. Gibson about Jesus's true mission and who or what was he beholden to and obligated. Plus, he manages to sneak in the classic Twilight Zone episode "To Serve Man", where people are served by a visiting and polite alien race...for dinner.   Readings: Isaiah 40:21-31 1 Corinthians 9:16-23 Mark 1:29-39 Psalm 147:1-12, 21c

In this episode, Rev. Beverly Gibson reflects on Rev. Marshall Carver's sermon from the week's lessons and service at Christ Church Cathedral (Mobile, Alabama). She discusses the pros and cons of using popular music (and culture) in a sermon and how Rev. Craver did an excellent job of incorporating Simon & Garfunkel's Sound of Silence to deliver his message of managing the light and darkness in our lives. Do we close ourselves off to our family, world, and God when darkness arrives? Do we know how to communicate this uneasiness to those that can help us? Can we see that Jesus calls us to stand with him when evil and darkness arrives in our lives? Rev. Gibson explores the concept and meaning of Jesus's "authority" reflected in Mark 1:21-28, and Johnny tries his best to explain his understanding of Paul's 1 Corinthians 8:1-13. Lastly, William Blake's "The Lamb," "The Lion," his "Doors Of Perception" are examined to delve into the duality of the light and darkness in "this world" and "not of this world." Worship Notes From Rev. Beverly Gibson   Readings Deuteronomy 18:15-20 1 Corinthians 8:1-13 Mark 1:21-28 Psalm 111   The Sound of Silence by Simon & Garfunkel   Hello darkness, my old friendI've come to talk with you again Because a vision softly creeping Left its seeds while I was sleeping And the vision that was planted in my brain Still remains Within the sound of silence In restless dreams I walked alone Narrow streets of cobblestone'Neath the halo of a street lamp I turned my collar to the cold and damp When my eyes were stabbed by the flash of a neon light That split the night And touched the sound of silence And in the naked light I saw Ten thousand people maybe more People talking without speaking People hearing without listening People writing songs that voices never shared No one dared Disturb the sound of silence "Fools," said I, "you do not know Silence like a cancer growsHear my words that I might teach you Take my arms that I might reach you"But my words like silent raindrops fell And echoed in the wells of silence And the people bowed and prayed To the neon god they made And the sign flashed out its warning In the words that it was forming And the sign said "The words of the prophets are written on the subway walls And tenement halls And whispered in the sound of silence"

We can waste a lot of time and energy ignoring God's calling and following the whims and diversions of the false self created in our minds. Life is rushing by all of us and lays hold of the most important things in life in the time given to us. The lessons this week are filled with this theme of time, callings, and a sense of urgency to do the important work. Andrew and Simon, without hesitation, got up, left their nets, life, and families to follow Jesus's call. Are you owning the day, your precious time, and following God's calling? If not, you're in good company. The poster prophet of second chances, Jonah, did the same thing in this Sunday's first reading. He ran away from God and his very specific prophetic task. In the end, God's pursuit (and a big ole' whale) set Jonah straight which allowed him to make things right. The life God has given us in time is finite; every moment is precious. Our ownership of time is slippery and limited. Therefore those things important to us need to be done immediately and without distraction and if we do find ourselves trapped in the belly of a whale God wants us to ask for help to find our way out. To make the most of our time on this dry land use this biblical time management lifehack: come and see, follow Him, and get up and go. What nets are you still clinging to? Other Topics Covered: > Seneca and his stoic philosophy of time and productivity > Margaret Wise Brown's The Runaway Bunny correlation to Jonah > The Book Of Jonah - a book of conflict and irony > Rev. Gibson's story of putting down her nets > The Heroe's Tale and In The Belly of the Whale > Tide Pods are something that should not be eaten  Readings: Jonah 3:1-5, 10 1 Corinthians 7:29-31 Mark 1:14-20 Psalm 62:6-14 Resources: Greg Carey - Mark 1:14-20: A Call Worthy of Their Lives Seneca - The Shortness of Life: Seneca on Busyness and the Art of Living Wide Rather Than Living Long How To Be Stoic - Seneca to Lucilius: on saving time Margaret Wise Brown - The Runaway Bunny

Keeping with the spirit of one of the messages of Sunday's sermon, Pulpit To Pew threw caution to the wind to experience performing an unrehearsed LIVE podcast in front of a lively parish audience. Thanks so much to all that stuck around for the maiden voyage and recording. Rev. Gibson and Johnny had such a good time and will be planning more in the near future. In this LIVE episode, Rev. Gibson makes us aware that learning and worshiping at Christ Church Cathedral can be more than just passively sitting and listening to the Mass. There is so much to visually absorb from the architecture, beautiful art, floral arrangements, woodwork and the stain glass windows to feel a connection to God. In fact, one of our Tiffany stain glass windows depicts the gospel lesson this week, Nathaniel meeting Jesus under a fig tree. In the Gospel, Phillip asks Nathanial to "come and see" this holy man from Nazareth and this skeptical seeker ventures out to meet Jesus. Eventually, he becomes one of Jesus's earliest believers, friends, and one of the twelve apostles. What if Nathaniel had not gone to see Jesus due to his pre-conceived notions, knowledge, and bias ("Can anything good come from Nazareth")? Do we close ourselves off because of our own biases from getting out of our comfort zone by exploring the world and being open to new experiences? Being open to exploration without purpose (and bias) can lead to personal transformation, spiritual growth, and new revelations about ourselves and our relationship with God. Is God calling to us to be open to seeing him like he sees us? Are we listening? Are we ignoring this divine invitation? Topics Covered: > Nathanial the skeptic, true Israelite, man with no agenda or guile, and apostle. > How did Jesus see and chose his disciples? > God's vision and how he sees us. > Listening and answering back to God's calling. > Can anything good come out of Nazareth? > The significance of the fig tree reference in the Bible and the Rabbinical tradition? > Who is John Stilgoe and what can his book Outside Lies Magic can teach us? > Learning to be more creative, create more ideas and respond to problems energetically? > Glorifying and spreading the word of God by purposely performing your job to the best of your ability.   Resources: John Stilgoe - Harvard Historian and Photographer  Outside Lies Magic: Regaining History and Awareness in Everyday Places by John Stilgoe

It's a new calendar year and a liturgical season and the lessons this week were all about beginnings. Reverend Gibson and Johnny Gwin discuss the Priestly Story of Divine Creation, Mark's Gospel of Jesus's baptism, the power of our own baptism, and how it's all connected. From God's breath across the water of the formless void all creation in life is continually coming into being. We are all a part of God's creation from our new life of baptism, to our daily actions and the role we play in God's ongoing story.

In this episode, Rev. Gibson & Johnny discuss the annual Christ Church Cathedral's Children's Christmas Pageant. The little shepherds, angels, bearded Joseph and Mary all did a wonderful job delivering the weekly Gospel this past weekend. In addition to the children's performance, three young parishioners shared their own Christmas Pageant moments and cherished memories with the congregation. This event is fun but also important to the growth of our Church family. Including all people, young and old, as active participants in the liturgy and weekly mass strengthens the connection to your faith and each other. Hearing Christmas story form Luke's gospel through the lens of children gives us a new perspective and can make us all recall those joyous times of our youth during the magical season of Christmas. To wrap up the show, Johnny manages to connect the new Star Wars film story and themes to the weekly lessons and the reflections of past and present Christmas Pageants. Merry Christmas from the Pulpit to Pew podcast. Thanks so much for sharing 2017 with us. Keep your lamps lit for the coming of the Baby Jesus and we will see you in 2018.

Modern day Christians tend to think of the Prophets as bearers of harsh warnings of present misbehavior and impending doom. Johnny always seems to draws them as frustrated, crazy, and wild-eyed characters with frazzled hair (e.g. Doc Brown from Back To The Future movies). This perception (and doodle) is not exactly accurate, in fact, the Prophets could be seen as the first "motivational speakers". Prophets, like modern day business gurus and Ted Talk internet superstars, inform and encourage their audiences to see the world different and to prepare for something that is coming. Which often, in the case of biblical witness, is the "Good News." Reverend Gibson examines the words and prophetic call of Isiah, Elijah, John The Baptist, and even 1960's AM radio broadcaster Earl Nightingale (considered to be the first motivational speaker) and how these "influencers" delivered messages of restoration and renewal to those longing for guidance and inspiration. Like the early Christians, we live in difficult times and are many are listening and longing for encouragement and motivation of action towards a brighter future. Isaiah and John The Baptist spoke of living in harmony with a loving God and understanding and preparing "The Way" for us to walk with Christ. Mr. Nightingale's "The Stranger Secret", while not exactly authorized biblical canon, it is a positive message of encouragement and has instructed many listeners on how-to work to become the person they long to be. Oh by the way, NIghtingale's "Secret" is this: be aware of what you think about; this is what you will become. It's not a complex insight, but it can be very prophetic. BONUS: Rev. Gibson shares Elinor Gibson's Christmas gift wish list. Questions To Consider: What do you think about the most when you are thinking? What or who are you listening to that influences your thoughts? Are you hearing and heading the good news of God's Prophets? Who do you want to become? How are you preparing "The Way" and a path for Christ to come to you? [caption id="attachment_500" align="aligncenter" width="700"] Readings: Isaiah 40:1-11 2 Peter 3:8-15a Mark 1:1-8   Resources: Earl Nightingale - The Strangest Secret

Reverend Gibson was inspired by a purpose statement from the poet and memoirist Mary Karr. Karr, the best-selling author who candidly shares the story of her life – from earthy Texas native, to teacher, to struggling addict, to eventually becoming fully alive – living a life of faith. Karr writes, “Having devoted the first half of my life to the dark, I feel obliged to revere any pinpoint of light now.” Her purpose statement sums up why people are drawn to her stories and gives us a connection to this week’s gospel lessons. This week’s lessons, being Jesus’ apocalyptic instructions and lessons to his disciples to patiently wait and stay awake in order to be vigilantly aware of finding the “light” in the darkness around them. Mary Karr’s re-telling of her earthly struggles and on-going redemption have inspired many fans and lifted them up emotionally and spiritually. This type of story-telling of our lives can be a powerful exercise in our own journey of faith. What stories do you have of God or someone else renewing and reviving you from a dark time or situation? What gifts or acts have you received which helped you overcome a barrier or tragedy? There is real power in the act of curation of our own stories chronicling the recurring pattern of God in our lives. The structure of our own stories is usually something like: • We awaken in darkness • We come into an awareness of our vulnerability and powerlessness • We arrive at an understanding o our need for the saving power of God • We find ourselves living in the light of God’s promises and living as God’s own people awaiting his return Perhaps the structure is formulaic, but it’s also a compelling narrative that can be a device to replenish our spiritual lamps, renew our faith, and remind us to stay awake to recognize the signs of God’s love and grace when he reveals himself to us in our daily lives. So, this Advent, hit the rewind and play buttons on your “stories,” share them with loved ones, and more importantly, share your heroic journey of darkness to light with someone else who might need the inspiration. Readings Isaiah 64:1-9 1 Corinthians 1:3-9 Mark 13:24-37  

Labeling and the cultural tendency of categorizing others narrowly and dismissively seems to have elevated to the level of entertainment, sport, and national pastime. Unfortunately, many (even those that are frequently labeled and marginalized) are drawn to this behavior that creates a barrier to understanding each other, our shared problems and the ability to work together to solve them. Labeling stifles the spirit of love and runs counter to the central Gospel imperative of the greatest commandment - to love God with all your heart and one another as you love yourself. In this episode, Rev. Beverly Gibson and Johnny Gwin discuss how labeling and a rigid mindset is at the center of Jesus' Parable of the Talents. How does this action become a barrier that keeps us from knowing the true nature of God, ourselves, and specifically those "others" that do not pass the litmus test of like-mindedness? The takeaway from this podcast is that daily, we should be engaging our God-given imagination and skills to create an environment that embraces working together with others to build the Kingdom of God. Topics covered > The lessons and writing of the man who taught and copywrited "love", Dr. Love, Leo Buscaglia > The 1970's Dr. Love "Hippy Love" talk on the surface is compatible to the core teaching of Christianity > Do fixed positive and negative mindsets of people, tasks and things pre-determine outcomes? > Knowing ourselves entails being open to knowing others as they really are. That means knowing God as God really is - not as human labels have made him. > Its lifelong work to inquire, decern, and unlearn the labels we have long established in our minds to know ourselves, others, and God in new, creative and generous ways. > Richard Rohr and his view of non-dualistic conceptions of God and of existence. > Is the Holy Spirit the energy and inspiration that creates the push for Christians to be open to new things, opportunities, and love? > The laziness of stereotyping limits the transcendent power of the Spirit > Strive to go outside of our homes, ourselves and comfort zones. This is how we learn about things have become what they are how they be improved and built stronger.

It’s not news that we live a world of uncertainty, fear, and anxiety, but how can we improve our spiritual and mental lives in such uncertain and dangerous times and confidently carry ourselves forward? What guidance and wisdom can scripture and the teaching of Jesus provide us to prepare, handle and process the seemingly endless stream of bad news from media, culture and social media? In this episode, Rev. Beverly Gibson discusses the parable the lamp oil and the ten bridesmaids and how this lesson is directly related to dealing with impatience, fear, anxiety, and dealing with the unknown in today’s world. God wants us to be joyful, at peace and yes, resilient. Not just the ability to bounce back from hardship or a temporary set-back resilient but a courage filled and bold confidence to overcome fears and trauma. Many of us are seeking an on-going way of approaching life that we know will be filled with a seemingly endless series of challenges and problems. Maybe by wisely opening up to living a life of faith, grace, balance, vigilant resilience, and doing the work that God has called us to do we could prepare ourselves to adapt well in the face of adversity, threats, fear, and tragedy. Recently, the nature of resilience and dealing with uncertain times was discussed in a Wall Street Journal article by writer Meg Jay, The Secrets of Resilience. While this more of a guide to implementing resilience in our individual life, it can be seen equally relevant and beneficial for our Church family and spiritual life. Meg Jay's steps on learning to become resilient and conquering adversity: Take on long-term and long-form projects that can feel like challenges but not threats. Resist defeat by setting your mind on positive things. Reach out to others who care and work together. Make a realistic plan to improve your situation. Work plan day by day. Remember the ways you have been courageous and strong in the past. Life is a gift from God, and it should be lived as fully as we can live. We should do all things, including the path to resilience, in the light of Christ’s resurrection and his presence among us, even as we await his coming again. As Christians, our foundation is our baptism, it's nurtured and grown in a life of discipleship, and our lamp oil is the energy generated in doing the work we are called to do. We do these all things because they are what Christ he has told us to do in his teachings. In the doing so, we become stronger in our faith and more capable of proclaiming the good news that has been given to us. Readings This Week Joshua 24:1-3a, 14-25 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 Matthew 25:1-13  

What in the world does Netflix's suspenseful Stranger Things, have to do with All Saint's Day and it's biblical lessons? Rev. Beverly Gibson (Christ Church Cathedral) uses this wildly popular series plot of two seperate realms that are connecting and colliding as an analogy for understanding our spiritual realms of Earth and God's Heavenly Kingdom, and the unity of the living and the dead.   What you will hear: Are the two realms of Earth and God's Kingdom separate? How are they united? How do we leak more of God's Kingdom into our harsh reality? What role do the Beatitudes and Jesus' teachings play in this connection to this intertwining of these two worlds? What is mercy and how can it's energy bind us all closer to God and each other? Is there ever a quarrel between Man and God? Readings Revelation 7:9-171 John 3:1-3Matthew 5:1-12   Topics and discussions > Celebrating All Saints Day at Christ Church Cathedral > Unity of the living and the dead > The eternal presence of God for all people and all creatures > Looking back at those we have lost we experience the harsh realities of the reality of what we know and a realm in which we can only speculate. > The common thread of the town of Hawkins in Netflick's show Stranger Things and the reality of upside down which is decay and darkness and the right side up - things that seem light and full of mercy and light > The two realms of Hawkins is separate but intertwined and connected - much like our world and heaven. Separated but connected > All Saints Day described in the illustration of John's Cloud of Witnesses and the Temple Cult of Heaven in the Book of Revelations is the realm of light and mercy while the realm of earth can seem dark and scary > While Stranger Things is a TV entertainment experience and just an example of a correlation of two realms that collide, the experience of All Saints Sunday is different, and our connection to the Kingdom of God is a spiritual one > Separated but still connected > Jewish apocalyptic literature has a purpose of revealing a temple cult in heaven where God is worshiped eternally no matter what is happening on Earth. Even the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem. > Worship in the eternal temple goes on > We are to worship God from Earth with an eye to this other Temple of Heaven > We worship God on Earth by following the teachings of Jesus laid out in the Beatitudes > Beatitudes - another vision of the blessed who are a part of the eternal worship of God > Mercy is an action > Is a constant and unconditional living force that moves through all things that bind us all together in God > The energy of God's love that runs throughout the universe > Thoreau - aware of God's loving energy moving through all things > There are no quarrels with God. Only we, humans create quarrels with God in our own wilfulness and misunderstandings > All Saint's Sunday focus us on that uniting force through time and space in the eternal now > We live and move and have our being in mercy > To be merciful with ourselves, with others, and with our world is to receive that energy that runs through all creation and unites us > Learning things about ourselves, the world and spirituality can be learned in many modern stories that are all around us > Making something like Revelations accessible to others by using stories like Stranger Things as a metaphor > Bible references in many pop-culture stories and art > C.S. Lewis and the Chronicle of Narnia as an allegory > The universal and ancient stories that is passed down in our traditions and history of a species > These stories of universal existential mysteries combines us to our ancestors and helps us make sense of these big questions of existence and the darkness of our own time > Stranger Things did an excellent job of balancing the existence of the darkness of evil and the light of good > I Sing Of The Saints of God - Saints are everywhere and "I want to be one too" > The Cloud of Witnesses includes the living and the dead > Saints can be alive today by living mercifully and the teachings of the Beatitudes > The transformative power of studying and understanding the lives of Saints > Not hiding children from stories that have dark themes if there is a valuable lesson in the story > We must have eternal vigilance against evil because there is no such thing is real life that is happily ever after > The Bible is a historic and guide that can be used to learn to handle issues that we may not understand, much like the Stranger Things kids used Dungeons & Dragons to give them insight into something no one can explain. > Understanding apocalyptic visions like the Book of Revelations and how to see there are many interpretations of that reading > Talking about death with hope and in the vision of God's love and mercy helps us to ease our fear of death

Download  |  Subscribe (FREE) In this episode, Rev. Beverly Gibson and Johnny Gwin continue to discuss the issue of the nature (and confusion) of Jesus as both human and divine. Using Matthew's gospel of the account of the Pharisee's Lawyer trying to trap Jesus with the question of "What is the greatest commandment," Rev. Gibson reveals that there is more to the greatest commandments. Jesus answered "loving God with all your heart, soul and mind" is the greatest commandment but he also added a second part to his answer, the "Golden Rule." Loving your neighbor as yourself is the coat hanger in which all the rules and laws of God is shaped and formed. Is understanding the letter and the spirit of the "Golden Rule" the lynchpin that connects all the lessons, laws, and ideas in Christianity? What would the world be like if more of us asked the question "Am I being loving" in all of our deeds and relationships? In our present cultural moment, we have gone beyond uncomfortable silence with discourse. We have been actively resistant and hostile to silence and have been moved straight to outright rage and protest when we hear things that trigger internal opposition to ideas and theories. Thinking needs the head and the heart. When we quit listening to someone because they don't "see things like us" we might be doing ourselves a disservice to understanding something more or in a deeper way. Jesus had a way of using "silence" in his teachings. Not only is there wisdom and faith in his words but also in his "between the lines" delivery if his messages. Jesus left his detractors silenced when he was challenged. He gave those that wanted to destroy him the time and respect to at least hear them out, and then after a pause of powerful silence lovingly gave them the chance to hear and absorb the truth that he was freely teaching to everyone to turn people toward God. Takeaway: This week "Just Give 5 Minutes" to prayer, yourself and your neighbors. Especially those neighbors that think and see our world much different than you. Readings: Deuteronomy 34:1-12 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8 Matthew 22:34-46   Thanks for listening. Please rate and review our show on iTunes.  Pulpit to Pew, a podcast that features a conversation between priest and parishioner, to understand how the message translates and to further explore the weekly lessons within the Episcopal tradition and daily life.  

Download |  Subscribe (FREE) This week Rev. Beverly Gibson and Johnny Gwin look at the nature of allegiance. Most of us have heard and comprehended the meaning of "Render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar's," but what is our debt to God? The answer to this profound teaching, from the Gospel of Matthew, is found more in Jesus's unspoken parallel than what he said. What is God's image imprinted upon? God's image is upon "us." We are what is owed to our Heavenly Emperor. More specifically, giving our physical and spiritual presence to Him, ourselves and others is the true debt that is owed. Also discussed in this episode: > Jesus's handling of those that are conspiring against him > Jesus's rabbinical teaching method > Tithing > The human and divine nature of Jesus > God's greatest gift to the world and His followers. Pulpit To Pew wants to congratulate Christ Church Cathedral parishioner Carl Cunningham Jr. and the young men of the Kappa League of Mobile for earning their National Chapter of the Year Award. Your presence at Sunday services is always a gift, and thanks for sharing your achievements. Your diligence and accomplishments are an inspiration to our whole community. Weekly Readings Exodus 33:12-23 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 Matthew 22:15-22 Complete Show: > Carl Cunningham, Jr. and the young men Kappa League of Mobile and their success, 12 million in scholarships and the National Jay Crosby Award joined us at service > Rev. Marshall Craver as a new addition to the Christ Church Cathedral family and the adult education program > The Pharisees and Herodians laying a trap for Jesus in the gospel of Matthew > Is it lawful to pay taxes to the Emperor or not? > Jesus in true Rabbinical tradition answers a question with another question > The image on the emperor's coin > If the coin belongs to the emperor what does God own? > What does God have his image on? Us. > Tithing and "the more" that is asked of God > The sharing of each other's presence > Will you seek and serve Christ in all persons in ourselves and others? > How Rev. Gibson prepares for the podcast when she doesn't deliver a sermon > Rev. Craver's earthly father's advice of never to speak of politics, religion, and money in public > Facebook seems to break Rev. Craver's sound fatherly advice > How we are not too different from the Pharisees and the Herodians >Herodians and Pharisees make strange bedfellows aligning together against Jesus > What does God have his image on > The profound teaching is the unspoken parallel of what is not said > The light and dark side (Star Wars reference) of ourselves and one another > Arguing the exact nature of Jesus - fully human, fully divine, or both > God's great compassion is giving his only son as a human being and sending him to live and die among us > What was Jesus like during the time he was finding his way in life from the age of 13 to 30 > We all were or are trying to discover our calling during our teens and twenties > Seeing Jesus in the people around us and sitting next to us > The divine in the human being is transcendent in many many religions > Is our soul the divine within each and every one of us > Johnny's need to explore William Blake other than his knowledge of this great artist from the Hannibal and Red Dragon movies > The Men of Kappa League wearing the garments of righteousness and inspiration > Big things are very important, but it is those little things that make us know we are loved > Nick Saban and The Process - nothing is minuscule, it's all important > God is in the details or is the Devil in the details > Workaholism and the temptation of working to help others instead of working on ourselves To hear Rev. Beverly Gibson's sermons or for for more information on Christ Church Cathedral please click here. This has been a production of Deep Fried Studios.

Download  |  Subscribe to Show (FREE) In this our 50th episode of Pulpit To Pew, Rev. Beverly Gibson shares one of her memorable moments from her summer sabbatical and family trip to Europe. Rev. Gibson introduces us to the "Wonder Worker of Britain," Saint Cuthbert, the Bishop of Lindisfarne and patron saint of Northern England. A visit to Cuthbert's Shine is said to awaken our awareness of the Benedictine Monasticism that is a part of the Church of England heritage in the Episcopal Church. This Benedictine Monasticism core value - The Care of Persons - are in our Episcopal DNA. This Care of Persons is a guideline of how we are to treat all people: Harmony and unity Generosity to all Rejoicing in Christ in all things Putting on a garment of Christian righteousness St. Paul describes this Care of Persons core value in the Epistle lesson this week with his letters to the Philippians (Phil. 4:1-9). This high ideal and value are essential to our Church mission of stewardship. What is the lesson from the Gospel reading of The King's Banquet? Rev. Gibson explains to Johny that our gift is not the invitation but the acceptance of the offer. But, there is a catch with this all-inclusive gift. To stay at the feast, we must adhere to the King's rules (Matthew 22:1-14.) Christians must do more than show up. We must put on the garments of Christ, like the pious St. Cuthbert did oh so many centuries ago. We must start to start living like Christ, walk in his ways and always work to take care of others. Can we begin to see all people as Christ did? And lastly, what if we saw everyone as important as how the followers of Cuthbert preserved and cared for his famous coffin, remains and legacy? Lastly, Rev. Gibson asks us to start seeing that we Episcopalians are more than just a Reformation Church. We have a long a deep history, revered Saints, legends, stories and family legacies that make up the DNA of our traditions, rituals, and faith. This awareness of the overall larger picture of God's Kingdom and creation and connecting our spiritual past could be a common thread to strengthen us individually, our parish, diocese, and the whole Church.  

Download | Subscribe Sometimes losing something can give us a much-needed reset and can present us with a refreshing gift. Hurricane Nate disrupted life and our normal Sunday Services this past weekend, so Rev. Gibson decided to try something different for this show. Instead of discussing the weekly lessons and sermon, Rev. Gibson shares a meditation with Johnny and you, the listener. Very often when we miss Sunday Service we feel that something is "just off." We hope this episode fills your spiritual gap and shows you a different perspective of missing Church. Covered Topics: > Hurricane Nate led to the cancellation of services at Christ Church Cathedral, Baptisms, Kappa League Breakfast > Predictions, even the best, is just that. A Prediction. > Tom McGhee, article on Hurricanes then and hurricane's now > The Pause that we take > The silent sun and moon and what they can teach us > Divine instructions from the heavens, the sun, and the moon > Anam Cara by John O'Donohue - witness every sunset and sunrise for a month > Within the continuing rhythms of nature we live out our life looking for purpose > The pause from our smaller purpose - a time to listen and learn from the Heavens > The Psalmists >Divine Instruction of Torah from Heaven > The big pause button of Divine Intervention and teaching >What is an absolute truth? > Don't overthink your presence - be present and aware without trying "to do" > What are meditations? > Johnny rethinks his St. Thomas of Aquinas book of meditations that he discounted in the past > Meditations and The Epistles are intimate looks into the thinking and thoughts of holy men and biblical icons > The beauty and the power of the poetic language of the Psalms This has been a production of Deep Fried Studios.

Download  |  Subscribe (Free) In this first show of season 3, Rev. Gibson and Johnny Gwin discuss the lessons from the Oct.1st readings and sermon that center on questioning authority, spiritual leadership, God's economy of grace, and claiming the infinite gifts that God bestows upon us all. And NO, one of those divine gifts (while considered an exceptional consumer product) does not include the Yeti Cooler that Rev. Gibson read about in a recent New York Times article. This NYT article focuses on the cult-like hype and love of the almighty Yeti Brand. Quoted is a Ms. Tannehill (Augusta, Ga.) describing this $300 product as practically a divine gift, “God dropped the Yeti down: ‘Here you go, South, it’s hot, I see you’re struggling.” Plus, the reporter Steven Kurutz retells the story of this summer's Great Yeti Heist of the Springhill Ace Hardware Store. Covered Topics: > Understanding and questioning authority > The Economy of Grace vs. The Economy of Merit > The Open Enrollment of God Economy of Grace > God's limitless love > The show up and failure clause of the Baptismal Covenant > The Pharisee's lack of understanding and heated conversations with Jesus (Mathew 21: 23-32) > The importance to listening to the teachings of John The Baptist > The challenges of the Spiritual Leader > The difficulty of balancing the business of the Church and the purpose of the Church > Claiming God's ever-present infinite love > How "living love" is a life's work > Parable of the 2 Sons explained > A Flannery O'Connor and a first class/coach airline analogies of the gospel lessons > The Yeti Mug that glows within each of us...maybe Weekly Readings: Exodus 17:1-7Philippians 2:1-13Matthew 21:23-32 Rev. Gibson and Johnny are so excited to start the third season of Pulpit To Pew and want to thank all the listeners for your support and patience. They and Deep Fried Studios promise to deliver every week the best show using our God-given gifts and energy. To hear Rev. Beverly Gibson's sermons or for for more information on Christ Church Cathedral please click here. This has been a production of Deep Fried Studios.