Practical and Pastoral – Ted Curnow
For Those Attending
This short resource will probably not suit every occasion but could be useful when people with little Christian background or link with the church approach you to conduct a funeral. This situation often provides an opportunity to relate to people in their time of need and to share the Christian gospel with the family. However people can sometimes bring their own expectations and plans to the occasion that detract from a Christian focus. This aid/statement in broad terms seeks to define some important elements of a christian funeral. It may even eventually assist the enquirer to finally decide if they wish to proceed with a Christian funeral or to choose what may be considered a more appropriate option.
Grace and Peace, Ted Curnow.
Greetings and Benediction
First words and last words are always important whether we are relating to individual people or a corporate Congregation. Rather than a commentary on the finer points of liturgical practice, here we have seed thoughts for reflection.
The Communion of Saints
What do we mean when we say , "I believe in the Communion of saints."
The DNA of the Universe Part 2
Ted Curnow continues his exploration of the ethics, and foundation of our world.
The DNA of the Universe Part 1
Ted Curnow explores our world from a Christian perspective.
Ministry Bag of All Sorts No. 4
More resources for the local church. Scroll for earlier articles under this "Bag of All Sorts" heading.
Ministry Bag of All Sorts No. 3
Ministry Show Bag of Allsorts No3
This Bag suggests "talking up Easter and outreach" plus other resources for the local church. For extra Easter suggestions scroll to earlier articles under this same heading, Pastoral and Practical.
Letters to Brother Tom
These three letters to Brother Tom reflect on the story of The Transfiguration found in Luke 9:28-36. They provide a devotional reflection for any situation but could be specifically shared over three pastoral visits with a person in need of encouragement about the future.
A.M.Ramsey summarizes the value of the transfiguration for the Church well by saying, "The diverse elements in the theology of the New Testament meet here.
It is a mirror in which the Christian mystery is seen in its unity. Here we perceive that the living and dead are one in Christ, that the Old Covenant and the New are inseperable. That the cross and the glory are one, that the age to come is already here, that our human nature has a destiny of glory. That in Christ the final word is uttered and in Him alone the Father is well pleased."
Introductory comment on icons
Presented here with his permission Rev Robin Pryor a recognised Spiritual Director an experienced leader of Prayer retreats reflects on the 15th century Mnovgorod Icon of the Transfiguration from north west Russia.
Show Bag No. 2
Ministry Show Bag No 2.
This is the second bag of--- "all-sorts" of ideas for ministry and service.
Provided by Ted Curnow