Inspiration

 

The Canons of St Albans have an annual Cellarer’s Feast at the Abbey, fairly expensive but a good meal followed by an interesting talk. In 2018 we heard the Revd Richard Coles, and last year it was a Dean from some other Cathedral. I really can’t remember his name, but I do recall that he was talking about the use of cathedrals (especially in view of some of them having a fairground ride within to “see the roof”, though he scarcely mentioned that). In particular Doug and I were struck by his assertion that for those who attend a cathedral “at least they are assured of a jolly good sermon”. Maybe the Residentiary Canons liked that remark, but we thought it was a bit of a cheek. Particularly in view of his performance that evening, although in fairness it wasn’t a sermon – just a lot of tosh.

 

So in these weeks Doug and I find ourselves pitted  on Sundays against leading staff from our own Diocese. It would be no contest to spar with the aforementioned Dean who must still be somewhere in Barchester. Last Sunday Bishop Alan spoke on the Internet service about Jesus walking on the Water, and I did the same here at All Saints. This Sunday Doug will be sparring with Bishop Michael on the Syro-Phoenician woman. You have the opportunity to experience both if you wish.

 

Seriously, I do believe that sermons are still really important, and that all preachers need to strive to communicate effectively and meaningfully. St Paul and St Peter in the New Testament speak out confidently, ready to challenge their hearers to find or increase their faith. We still need that today, all of us. Academic sermons are not  generally helpful outside academic circles – the thoughts and words need to say something to me about my life now. It is the Scripture that needs to be brought alive, not the admiration for the hortatory abilities of the preacher. Simple connectedness is vital, backed by a depth of spirituality that can feed through to the hearers.

 

Please pray for all preachers, for our team and the Diocesan team, our Deanery clergy and Readers, that the Lord will inspire us all to seek excellence in communication and present the lively truths of God, the wonder of salvation, the strengthening power of the Spirit in what we say and do.  The Good News of Jesus has never been needed more than in these difficult times. And may we all live lives that show the holy presence of Jesus through our love and caring and sharing in word and deed.