Retired & Thinking

Well the GAC finally came out with a paper to answer the concerns of the New Wineskins and it isn't too much of a surprise. Take the time to read it but understand that they find nothing wrong with what's happened in the PCUSA. Of course they do throw those of us who don't agree a bone when they write, " ...that there is always a gap between any denomination’s official positions and the views and practices of some ministers and members of that denomination ." Anyone who has read the statements of faith that come from those being received in our Presbyteries probably have realized this fact. I will say that they are quick in responding to comments. I emailed the link at the bottom of the PDF and got a response back in very short order. Read it, respond to it and I'm sure they'll be more on this in the days to come. Peace. Alan

So, one of my favorite cartoons is Dilbert and today's (Sunday the 10th) struck me as particularly Presbyterian. Because of copyright concerns I've not pasted the cartoon here but instead have pasted NEW balloons which you may cut out and use to see the denominational aspect of the carton. Have a good week all. Alan

It's on the table… The Presbytery of the Cascades has officially presented it's process for congregation's considering leaving the PCUSA. I received mine in my presbytery packet today. After making sure there were no major revisions from what I'd already received I post it for the enlightenment, edification and whatever else you may glean from it. (sorry for any formatting glitches) APPENDIX B: PROCESS FOR CONGREGATIONS CONSIDERING LEAVING THE PCUSA Preamble The mission of the Presbytery of the Cascades is to serve God by nurturing, supporting, and celebrating our common ministries. Even in times of conflict, we seek to uphold one another, respecting each other’s integrity as we perceive the Biblical basis and Christian credibility of varied perspectives. It is the Presbytery’s desire to encourage peace and unity while minimizing confrontation between and among its congregations and members as we seek together to find and represent the will of C...

Just got to post this link to PowerBlog because this car from Berkely would fit well here in Portland… LOL Alan    

Mined Splatterings linked to a quiz about matching yourself to a theologian. Interesting mix for myself in that it is equal between Calvin and Edwards. Alan

My bad, a lot of homework and not enough caffeine will be my excuse. Apparently, I forgot to mention that the reason for the article on Johnny Hart was that he died the day before Easter. One of the reports is here . Alan Alan

Among the more faithful expressions of the faith is Johnny Hart whose ministry in this last decade or so has upset, comforted, enlightened and blessed many. He drew comics. BC and The Wizard of Id were his tools. "BC" was a powerful expression of Johnny's faith in Christ. Our politically correct and fearful Oregonian pulled the comic years ago because of its Christian content. I got to read him via the net and Washingtonpost [kudos to them]. Without shame or apology, I'll admit that I've printed out his comics and put them on bulletin boards at our church. His Christmas, Palm Sunday, and Easter comics were usually able to summarize the truth in a quick easy manner. Yesterday, for some reason, I didn't even look at his comic. Instead, during our cantata I thought, "Dang, I was going to get that and put it on the door." God bless you Mr. Hart. You've done good. You've blessed the Body of Christ. Peace to your wife and daughters. I pray for m...