The splendid Mr John Cooper delights with a video of Pete Seeger and Arlo Guthrie performing ‘If I had a hammer’ to an enthusiastic crowd. That’s all the excuse I needed to post Peter, Paul and Mary’s version.
John is delighted by the news that the Methodist Church has added its voice in opposing the homosexuality bill in Uganda and invites us to make the link between opposing this unjust law and the message of Christmas
Final word must go, though, to a often understated - but clear - section of the Methodist Church statement on human sexuality. The final point, point 6, makes clear a simple fact - regardless of your view of human sexuality - this is a subject to do with freedom and liberation. Wherever we are on our individual pilgramge to greater understanding of the subject, we cannot stand by and let injustice reign.
Conference recognises, affirms and celebrates the participation and ministry of lesbians and gay men in the church. Conference calls on the Methodist people to begin a pilgrimage of faith to combat repression and discrimination, to work for justice and human rights and to give dignity and worth to people whatever their sexuality.(For full text see 1993 statement on Human Sexuality).
So as you enjoy the sunday song I implore you. Take some time to think and consider - what are you doing to spread joy and justice this Christmas. But let us not hide our actions under a bushel. Instead take steps to proclaim to all what we do. For while Church Bells or Minorettes call those to worship God - let us take the chance to call others to say here is part of our worship. For Christmas will only ever be Christmas if we allow it to be a time, as Greenbelt 2004 so memorably reminded us, to let freedom ring throughout the land.
Amen and Amen!
On the subject of that Uganda law, Rick Warren has responded to his critics by explicitly condemning it, though Richard Bartholomew smells a rat.
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Veronica 12.13.09 at 9:23 pm
I did not realise the Methodist Church held those views on homosexuality. I am glad that the Methodists church is standing against the homosexuality bill in Uganda.
Pam 12.14.09 at 4:25 am
I attend an Anglican church in the Sydney diocese, well known in its opposition to gay clergy. but am supportive of homosexual rights within the church, including leadership for those gifted to do so. I praise the Methodist Church for this stand.
Beth 12.14.09 at 6:28 pm
Ahhh… Peter Paul and Mary are balm for the soul! Even if Peter (or is it Paul?) looks a bit too much like Satan.
Richard 12.14.09 at 7:25 pm
I can’t say I’ve ever noticed that resemblance, Beth. But then I haven’t paid much attention to Peter & Paul…