A Blog-Based Base Camp

One of my favorite authors is Nora Gallagher. I recommend her books: THINGS SEEN and UNSEEN: A YEAR LIVED IN FAITH; PRACTICING RESURRECTION: A MEMOIR OF WORK, DOUBT, DISCERNMENT, AND MOMENTS OF GRACE ---both of these are so excellent and such a spirit strengthener that I've read them several times --- and, THE SACRED MEAL, her recent book which I am currently reading.

Gallagher writes realistically about faith and her experience and living her faith as a laywoman in a liberal Episcopalian congregation in Southern California. She frequently references a practice her congregation offers which is called "Base Camp."

One evening a week, a small group of persons gather to share how they are doing with the living of being a disciple of Christ and together they read the coming Sunday's lectionary passage and reflect on how the word impacts their living as disciples. For example, it was the reading of Matthew 25.31-46 that prompted them to start a soup kitchen in their parish.

I'm not sure if it's possible to do this via a blog or electronically. Yet, I want to give it a try. As Lent is soon to begin (22 February is Ash Wednesday) this could be a good time to do a little spiritual group exercise.

So, here's what I'm thinking, one blog a week will be dedicated to the upcoming Sunday's lectionary readings, notably the Gospel passage. I will share where I am at and, as always, folks are invited to post a comment directly to the blog in regard to where they are in light of the scripture passage. NOTE: One does not have to use one's actual name to post. Pick a name or nickname and go for it!

There is no pressure to post.
There is no pressure to write in some "stained-glass font."
Honest and real insights and sharing is what the invite is about.

So, we'll give it a try and see how it goes.

In closing, how wonderful was this blast of winter?!!?!? Seriously, didn't it feel good to have cold air and snow that draws you to hearth and home, to a warm beverage and a good book?

sj;