Rodney David Rhys Smith, 1945 – 2023A reflection by Ken Gray I told Rod many times, that when the time comes for his funeral —and if I am invited to officiate—that I get the last word! And so I did, as about seventy-five family and friends gathered at Sequoia Gardens in Victoria recently. They laughed,... Continue Reading →
In a previous blog I offered a review of Kim Stanley Robinson’s The Ministry for the Future: A Novel. Peppered throughout Robinson’s story are hundreds of aphorisms which have me pause for cause (or cause me to pause), to take notice, and reflect. I find these words to be variously powerful, insightful, pithy, analytical, emotional,... Continue Reading →
“This is the best book I have ever read.” These are not my words but those of a Berkley liturgical scholar who reads and publishes on Christian worship. Her unexpected outburst concerned Kim Stanley Robinson’s The Ministry for the Future: A Novel (Orbit, 2020). Described on the cover by American novelist Jonathan Lathem as “the... Continue Reading →
If it’s good enough for The Guardian and for The New York Times, each running selected stories and opinion pieces between Christmas and New Years presently, it’s good enough for me, Juno. Welcome to Juno REDUX, a look back at my canine journalistic parlance par excellence during 2023. I must start with Therapy Dog Team,... Continue Reading →
Commemoration of St. Thomas of Canterbury, d. 29 December 1170 In a beautiful liturgy at Canterbury Cathedral, the mother church of the Anglican Communion, St. Thomas, Martyr was remembered as an inspiration to those who suffer for their faith in our own day. Historically, Thomas Becket, also known as Saint Thomas of Canterbury, served as... Continue Reading →
Quilt made by Kathie Gray for daughter, Hannah, Christmas 2023 Excellent words for today, and every day Elizabeth Johnson, published on the daily blog of the Centre for Action and Contemplation Theologian Elizabeth Johnson summarizes the prophetic path as following a merciful God who abounds in kindness: Abounding in kindness, the holy mystery of God... Continue Reading →
A version of this material will form my 2023 Christmas Eve Sermon at St. Stephen’s, Summerland. 7 p.m. is you’re in the hood. Everyone likes receiving Christmas cards—at least most people do. See my comments elsewhere. For many, the traditional Christmas card is now replaced by the annual newsletter—my own tend to go on a... Continue Reading →
True confession. I am no teetotaler. I enjoy the occasional glass of beer, sometimes a nice gentle Cab Sav, and in quiet moments, a single-malt scotch, and more recently Irish whisky. I enjoy both the taste and the subsequent relaxed feeling that all produce. I will never drink, however, when I am stressed or despairing.... Continue Reading →
Prior to returning to Summerland where Kathie and I lived and worked from 1994-2005 we needed to make a decision. Would we have our mail re-directed to our new address? I thought it was a waste of money; Kathie, however, wanted the service. So we now receive correspondence from gutter cleaners and weed removal services;... Continue Reading →
Another creative generosity story in our little town of Summerland Sometimes it’s good to know that “Santa” is right next door, ready to deliver gifts to gladden the hearts of everyone, regardless of age or circumstance. Enter the Santa Gift Bag project. Neighbourlink Summerland started the Project three years ago during COVID to reach out... Continue Reading →
Take Note - Reflections on life, music, politics, retirement and more by Ken Gray 