Originally published as “Christianity isn’t just in decline — it’s become obsolete, says sociologist -- The problem isn’t simply about belief. ‘[Traditional religion] doesn’t fit ordinary life,’ says Christian Smith.” by Julie McGonegal - Feb. 6, 2026 on Broadview Christian Smith says that traditional religion hasn’t merely lost adherents — it’s become culturally obsolete. That’s... Continue Reading →
[Pope Leo XIV] I would like to invite you to a very practical and frequently unappreciated form of abstinence: that of refraining from words that offend and hurt our neighbour. Let us begin by disarming our language, avoiding harsh words and rash judgment, refraining from slander and speaking ill of those who are not present... Continue Reading →
Virginia Theological Seminary awarded the Dean’s Cross for Servant Leadership to comedian Stephen Colbert and his wife, film producer Evelyn McGee-Colbert, on Feb. 6 at General Theological Seminary in New York. Left to right: Evelyn McGee-Colbert, David Charlton, the Very Rev. Ian Markham and Stephen Colbert. Photo: Virginia Theological Seminary Episcopal News Service staff [Episcopal... Continue Reading →
Josephine Walker on AXIOS Christian clergy are deploying spiritual infrastructure — from organizing prayer circles to acting as human shields — to resist the Trump administration's immigration agenda. Why it matters: The clergy members who spoke with Axios argue that Trump's immigration crackdown contradicts core biblical teachings about protecting the vulnerable, putting them at odds... Continue Reading →
No questions asked This is what I hear when I return something to my local big box stores. For whatever reason the item I purchased does not work out for my needs or wants. I would like my money back please. Almost always, the money is immediately refunded, with a smile. No questions asked. I... Continue Reading →
[Ken Gray] So here’s an idea. Let’s invite Anne Lamott up to Vancouver to visit with supportive and faithful Canadians. What a great event that would be. My secret agenda would be to welcome her here for an extended period of time; maybe she’d stay . . . So often I find myself drawn to... Continue Reading →
A sermon for the congregation of St. Saviour Anglican Church, Penticton BC Sunday, February 1st, 2026 - Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany - The Very Rev. Ken Gray Based on MATTHEW 5:1-12 I have never seen the streets of Minneapolis so full of people, and on such a cold, wintry day; temperatures of 12O F... Continue Reading →
A few days late, but a great history from Matthew Larkin, with thanks And today, I’m thinking of this guy, who died 150 years ago this date (January 22). John Bacchus Dykes: priest, organist, composer, tractarian: a composer of well over 250 hymn tunes, and an avid and determined ritualist who stood tall against his... Continue Reading →
Maria J. Stephan speaks with Stephen Colbert about the role faith communities can play as communities across the country look to protect their neighbors from ICE On Facebook, or YouTube As one catholic speaking with another Maria J. Stephan and Stephen Cobert explore how non-violent resistance can work in the present moment; they also explore... Continue Reading →
VIGIL IN A SMALL TOWN, by Betty-Ann Xenis, Summerland, BC The second time we met, it was windy and our candles kept blowing out. It seemed symbolic somehow. Candles, a light in the darkness, being blown out by a force beyond our control. We finally stopped trying to relight them but just stood in the... Continue Reading →
Take Note - Reflections on life, music, politics, retirement and more by Ken Gray 