I heard this phrase used on Radio 4 this week - on Michael Burke's "moral maze". He used the phrase it as if it were a given. This is nothing new - it has been heard quite frequently for a while now, mostly on the lips of "evangelical" Atheists. (They are so unattractive in their fervour - maybe we Christians need to learn from that.) Ironic then that the programme was peppered with quotes from the Bible.
I also took a look at an article in today's Independant by Bruce Anderson. However good the article is (very in my opinion) the assumption is actually untrue - if our local cemetery is anything to go by, to say nothing of the ever increasing number of roadside shrines.
A peripatetic liturgy
My opening hymn of praise on today's cycle ride (with apologies for appalling singing to those whose gardens are alongside "The Lines" cycle path in Allerton Bywater) is from Sting.
You could say I lost my faith in science and progress
You could say I lost my belief in the holy church
You could say I lost my sense of direction
You could say all of this and worse but
If I ever lose my faith in you
There'd be nothing left for me to do
(My latest favourite recording - a Radio 2 concert featuring Mr Ben Castle on Sax). Funny how woship songs can sound like love songs (and vice versa) - or is it?
I think I have lost my faith in some aspects of Church. We had a debate this week in our Church about allowing alcohol "in the building". As some helpfully pointed out the place we need to be talking about is the mouths of the members! - in the building or anywhere. Some people sadly didn't get that joined up sort of thinking. (No wonder Kez is depressed)
After a stop for a crappychino at RSPB Fairburn Ings (Hey they stock Divine Chocolate now - last year I suggested they stock it and now they do!) - time for the communion hymn (alcohol free)
"Grace" from Jonathan Elias's Prayer Cycle complete with brilliant memories of Viki Hannan's dramatic communion prayer set to the music.
Closing hymn on the HiFi at home - Pulse from Floyd in very loud Dolby 5.1 (Flora still not in from church and Jono out overnight with his arty meatalhead mates)
chained forever to a world thats departed
its not enough
its not enough
Post everything
Post Christendom - post evangelical - post modern - yes I am that groovy (?) - but post religious - no - on reflection I think not. After all - those who ignore the lessons of history....
And no - I dont only do church (or religion) on my own - I'll be in the building this evening - oh joy unconfined - Jeremiah again.
He is a bit depressing isn't he.
