The Archdeacon of Blackburn, Venerable John Hawley, wonders if we are serious about tackling anything.
Do we have the will to make significant changes to our society, and to tackle the big issues?
Climate change is clearly impacting on the world and we have experienced severe weather in the North West recently - but are we serious enough about addressing our carbon footprint?
The Chancellor, Mr Darling - has increased car tax on gas guzzling 4 x 4's but this will not stop the affluent buying such cars - it will only help increase the money in Government coffers.
advertisement
Where is the political will and the local resolve to have a nationwide campaign to reduce the carbon footprint, with mass media coverage - and a national campaign skilfully presented that convinces us all to take action?
As I understand it even if we begin now in a concerted way to tackle Global warming, our present actions will only begin to make a difference in 2050.
I am amazed that it seems to be Archbishops and Bishops - who are normally ridiculed for suggesting anything - who have taken the lead this year.
The Archbishops have called for a Green Lent, the Bishop of Liverpool has called for a Carbon Fast during Lent, and the Bishop of Blackburn wants a Green Year.
They are trying to raise our attention to the most significant issue of our generation - one which keeps creeping up on us - almost without us noticing.
An issue which is so significant that politicians seem only willing to tinker with it for fear of disturbing us.
Or if we take the Chancellor's attempt to raise the cost of alcohol It seems to me that the levels of increase only make it a little more expensive, and will not stop teenage drinking - but will help to fill the Chancellor's coffers again but not really tackle the big issue.
Surely - teenage drinking is merely a symptom of pressures on young people which stretch from their own despair, to the consequences of family breakdown, and a fragmented approach to morality.
It seems to me that the government's focus is again on the need for economic wellbeing and hoping that this will to solve all other issues.
Instead we need to be concentrating on developing good relationships with young people - to show that they are loved, wanted, and have significant gifts and abilities themselves to offer for the greater good.
We need to be increasing the amount of sporting facilities for young people - not closing swimming pools - so that we can have healthy young people who learn self discipline and gain relationships through sport.
A Church led report in 2006 - called 'Faithful cities' raised the question that Governments and Council's generally do not ask - which is 'What makes for a good city, or town or community?'
If we knew what ingredients make for a good community - then we could work towards it, and resource it, and discover it.
Sadly it is not a question that seems to be asked with any real conviction or will.
We still have the same political gestures and soundbites that massage us and try to keep us 'on side' but no real idea as to how to tackle our gentle social disintegration - accelerated by some unthinking immigration policies which in places like Peterborough are leading to conflict in local communities.
We have a shortage of housing. We have evidence that a substantial amount of house building has been on convenient but dangerous flood plains.
There are calls for more and more houses - with the Chancellor having identified sites for 70,000 more.
Yes we need more housing - but why, in the first place, are people allowed to have so many homes without any significant penalty.
How many homes do some people need? I can only live in one home at a time.
The more affluent we become the more homes we seem to want.
One in the town, one in the country, one on the coast, and a flat in London, and don't forget the villa in Spain.
No government seems to even mention the possibility of a strong financial sanction on multi-home owners.
Yet such people are not only depriving others of possible homes and causing us to have to build more houses, but are also destroying community life in rural areas - where they either merely visit at weekends or commute to daily from their work in the city - but often sadly they take no real part in community life.
Again why do we not have the will even to raise such issues let alone tackle them?
Is it that those in Government have lost the genuine desire to bring social change because they themselves have been seduced by power, and have gained sufficient incomes of their own to enable them to live their own lives so comfortably - and have forgotten what it means to struggle?
Where there is a will there is a way - but is there any will?
Maby the CofE might want to make a bit less profit from property itself before criticising those who choose to buy a house for their family.
Otherwise accusations of hypocricy may result.
Maybe the church should pay a bit more attention to social housing in it's own portfolio.
Does the CofE only sell residential assets to those with no other home or are they quite happy to let or sell a farm cottage / london flat / etc to the wealthy second-homers? (rhetorical question)
The CofE makes 30.7% return on its residential property which suggests its aims are pure capitalist, nothing to do with "social conscience" and in complete contradiction to the Archdeacons message.
Quite ironic, really, one of the biggest landowners and property profiteers in the country having the nerve to criticise others for owning property.
[quote]unthinking immigration policies[/quote]
The last resort of the politico for the failure of his policies or to drum up support for new ones: BLAME THE IMMIGRANTS! not clever, really.
Perfectly valid points about tax policy though.
Maby the CofE might want to make a bit less profit from property itself before criticising those who choose to buy a house for their family.
Otherwise accusations of hypocricy may result.
Maybe the church should pay a bit more attention to social housing in it's own portfolio.
Does the CofE only sell residential assets to those with no other home or are they quite happy to let or sell a farm cottage / london flat / etc to the wealthy second-homers? (rhetorical question)
The CofE makes 30.7% return on its residential property which suggests its aims are pure capitalist, nothing to do with "social conscience" and in complete contradiction to the Archdeacons message.
Quite ironic, really, one of the biggest landowners and property profiteers in the country having the nerve to criticise others for owning property.
unthinking immigration policies
The last resort of the politico for the failure of his policies or to drum up support for new ones: BLAME THE IMMIGRANTS! not clever, really.
Posted by: Ian the Beancounter, Darwen on 9:42am Fri 14 Mar 08
1. Global Warming. Whilst I accept that our actions don't help the situation, [italic][bold]NOTHING[/bold][/italic] we do can affect a natural cycle in the history of our planet. "Global warming" is the new term being thrown about to keep us in fear now that the threat of the Communists dropping a nuclear bomb has been eradicated. One of the biggest bits of misinformation is, I understand, the statement that the polar ice caps are melting. This is, in fact, true, but what we are not told is that the rate of melt is [italic][bold]slower[/bold][/italic] now than it has been for the last 6000 years! Also, our granparents can all tell us about floods and storms in their youth which were every bit as bad as today. "Global warming" is a myth - no wonder religious people buy into it!
2. Underage Drinking. I agree that this is getting worse, but it's nothing to do with "stresses" on kids. I, and my father before me, used to experiment with drink when in my teens. It is just teenage curiosity. It's like putting a big red button in front of a teenager with a sign saying "DO NOT PRESS". The thought process is simply "I wonder what will happen if I do?" and the natural curiosity of the young mind does the rest. It's the same with alcohol. Keep telling kids they must not drink and they think "Why not?". So they do! The really big difference today is the availability of alcohol. When I was a kid, it was only sold in pubs (which I couldn't go in) or off licences (where proof of age was always required if the shopkeeper was in doubt). Today, every supermarket and most petrol stations sell cheap alcohol and they're not too fussy about who they sell it to.
3. Housing. Yes, we have a shortage of housing, but as we now seem to be knocking down more than we are building, is it any wonder? A also agree that people having more than one home adds to the problem, but let's be honest here - how many people does that really apply to, and does it really have a significant impact on the housing stock. I would suggest that it does not, although I do not support this practice.
All in all, I believe the Archdeacon's comments to be a typical establishment "over-analysis" of the perceived problems in society, but with that analysis being blinkered by social commentary and the need to "say the right thing".
1. Global Warming. Whilst I accept that our actions don't help the situation, NOTHING we do can affect a natural cycle in the history of our planet. "Global warming" is the new term being thrown about to keep us in fear now that the threat of the Communists dropping a nuclear bomb has been eradicated. One of the biggest bits of misinformation is, I understand, the statement that the polar ice caps are melting. This is, in fact, true, but what we are not told is that the rate of melt is slower now than it has been for the last 6000 years! Also, our granparents can all tell us about floods and storms in their youth which were every bit as bad as today. "Global warming" is a myth - no wonder religious people buy into it!
2. Underage Drinking. I agree that this is getting worse, but it's nothing to do with "stresses" on kids. I, and my father before me, used to experiment with drink when in my teens. It is just teenage curiosity. It's like putting a big red button in front of a teenager with a sign saying "DO NOT PRESS". The thought process is simply "I wonder what will happen if I do?" and the natural curiosity of the young mind does the rest. It's the same with alcohol. Keep telling kids they must not drink and they think "Why not?". So they do! The really big difference today is the availability of alcohol. When I was a kid, it was only sold in pubs (which I couldn't go in) or off licences (where proof of age was always required if the shopkeeper was in doubt). Today, every supermarket and most petrol stations sell cheap alcohol and they're not too fussy about who they sell it to.
3. Housing. Yes, we have a shortage of housing, but as we now seem to be knocking down more than we are building, is it any wonder? A also agree that people having more than one home adds to the problem, but let's be honest here - how many people does that really apply to, and does it really have a significant impact on the housing stock. I would suggest that it does not, although I do not support this practice.
All in all, I believe the Archdeacon's comments to be a typical establishment "over-analysis" of the perceived problems in society, but with that analysis being blinkered by social commentary and the need to "say the right thing".
Posted by: Leanne, Lancashire on 10:53am Fri 14 Mar 08
I think it’s not just the will to change on the part of government that needs to be stronger, it is the will of individuals and businesses. Society is responsible for society’s ills, including detrimental environmental impact, not the government. The government is elected to represent the public, so in theory they are a reflection of our own collective indifference and reluctance.
I wonder how much impact a big media campaign might have in practice? The environment seems to be constantly in the media, yet they deal with shock headlines, not simple, practical, painless ways of thinking and doing that make a real difference. Why do we believe the National Grid when we are told that, for example, at half time during a big televised football match, there is a surge in demand and energy usage as viewers make themselves a hot drink, yet we don’t believe that by taking small steps individually we can significantly reduce our use of energy and thus our carbon footprint and all kinds of other negative impacts?
Global climate change may be difficult to prove since scientists have such conflicting results from their observations (and perhaps conflicting interests in the sponsors of their research). However, the local negative impacts of fly tipping, landfill, exhaust fumes, power station emissions, nuclear waste etc are hard to deny.
I think it’s not just the will to change on the part of government that needs to be stronger, it is the will of individuals and businesses. Society is responsible for society’s ills, including detrimental environmental impact, not the government. The government is elected to represent the public, so in theory they are a reflection of our own collective indifference and reluctance.
I wonder how much impact a big media campaign might have in practice? The environment seems to be constantly in the media, yet they deal with shock headlines, not simple, practical, painless ways of thinking and doing that make a real difference. Why do we believe the National Grid when we are told that, for example, at half time during a big televised football match, there is a surge in demand and energy usage as viewers make themselves a hot drink, yet we don’t believe that by taking small steps individually we can significantly reduce our use of energy and thus our carbon footprint and all kinds of other negative impacts?
Global climate change may be difficult to prove since scientists have such conflicting results from their observations (and perhaps conflicting interests in the sponsors of their research). However, the local negative impacts of fly tipping, landfill, exhaust fumes, power station emissions, nuclear waste etc are hard to deny.
Posted by: simplysimon, burnley on 1:08pm Fri 14 Mar 08
Dear Archbeacon,
I see the infuriation, I see the total lack of will and conviction. It's not just the Politicians. This is not a problem for Society as a whole. It is not a problem for leaders and followers together.
The problem is an individual and intimate problem. Any Society is only as strong as it's weakest component. The Individual.
This Group notion that the Universe is 'ours' is a common misunderstanding. Man did not create the Universe, although Leaders often behave as if they have the masterplan that will fix every problem that comes along.
Like you and many others, I listen to the news, I hear these Leaders with their solutions and I have seen over time how these rhetorical solutions never actually go anywhere. Some one has to be seen to be saying and implementing something no matter how futile and pointless and ineffective it is. Otherwise, the whole world will recognise that it is [bold]utterly lost[/bold] to find the Ultimate Answer.
And we can't have that can we? We can't admit that we don't know how to make the Universe of Man work in Perfect Harmony. It's a matter of being Honest, with our selves.
The only way the Universe that has been made around us will work is when we recognise the Truth of it. Clarity is required. Not another formulae. Our [italic]need for a formulae[/italic] tells us we have lost our grip on the Masterplan. We have lost that Clarity and Understanding that is so Perfect it does not need a Man-made formulae to shore it up.
This is Your Universe. Not a collective. This Life is Your Gift. Not a group Initiative. You are the recipient of the Ultimate Miracle. You are not the Maker or the owner or the fixer of the Miracle.
When you look at the moon and the sun and the stars, you are not looking at [italic]our[/italic] moon, [italic]our[/italic] sun, [italic]our[/italic] stars. These Elements, and all the others ARE YOURS for a time. You did not create them, they are not your problems, you don't have to find a solution and you do not have to take ownership of them.
Mans Responsibility is to Live with Fulfillment, not emptiness, not despair. It's the Fulfillment and the Contentment and the Peace and the Joy that is missing. It is the needs of the Heart within the components of Societies that are overlooked and ignored. It is the Heart within Man that is being ignored.
If the Heart within is not Fulfilled then there is not going to be any harmony in any society. Each Man has a responsibility to his Heart. Witnessing the Joy of Existence needs to be a daily affair. It needs to be a Conscious determination. Not an option, it needs to be Understood that Contentment Peace and Joy are VITAL! not optional.
No routine of Man will ever be able to fix that. Man has abdicated his own responsibility to his own Heart. He needs to clean his perspective. He needs to set it right. He needs to recognise the need for Clarity in his own Life. Not offer his fancy solutions to the world.
That is the Issue that needs his Individual Attentiveness. Then we can Celebrate this Life. We can Live this Life the way it is meant to be Lived! With a Full Heart!
Dear Archbeacon,
I see the infuriation, I see the total lack of will and conviction. It's not just the Politicians. This is not a problem for Society as a whole. It is not a problem for leaders and followers together.
The problem is an individual and intimate problem. Any Society is only as strong as it's weakest component. The Individual.
This Group notion that the Universe is 'ours' is a common misunderstanding. Man did not create the Universe, although Leaders often behave as if they have the masterplan that will fix every problem that comes along.
Like you and many others, I listen to the news, I hear these Leaders with their solutions and I have seen over time how these rhetorical solutions never actually go anywhere. Some one has to be seen to be saying and implementing something no matter how futile and pointless and ineffective it is. Otherwise, the whole world will recognise that it is utterly lost to find the Ultimate Answer.
And we can't have that can we? We can't admit that we don't know how to make the Universe of Man work in Perfect Harmony. It's a matter of being Honest, with our selves.
The only way the Universe that has been made around us will work is when we recognise the Truth of it. Clarity is required. Not another formulae. Our need for a formulae tells us we have lost our grip on the Masterplan. We have lost that Clarity and Understanding that is so Perfect it does not need a Man-made formulae to shore it up.
This is Your Universe. Not a collective. This Life is Your Gift. Not a group Initiative. You are the recipient of the Ultimate Miracle. You are not the Maker or the owner or the fixer of the Miracle.
When you look at the moon and the sun and the stars, you are not looking at our moon, our sun, our stars. These Elements, and all the others ARE YOURS for a time. You did not create them, they are not your problems, you don't have to find a solution and you do not have to take ownership of them.
Mans Responsibility is to Live with Fulfillment, not emptiness, not despair. It's the Fulfillment and the Contentment and the Peace and the Joy that is missing. It is the needs of the Heart within the components of Societies that are overlooked and ignored. It is the Heart within Man that is being ignored.
If the Heart within is not Fulfilled then there is not going to be any harmony in any society. Each Man has a responsibility to his Heart. Witnessing the Joy of Existence needs to be a daily affair. It needs to be a Conscious determination. Not an option, it needs to be Understood that Contentment Peace and Joy are VITAL! not optional.
No routine of Man will ever be able to fix that. Man has abdicated his own responsibility to his own Heart. He needs to clean his perspective. He needs to set it right. He needs to recognise the need for Clarity in his own Life. Not offer his fancy solutions to the world.
That is the Issue that needs his Individual Attentiveness. Then we can Celebrate this Life. We can Live this Life the way it is meant to be Lived! With a Full Heart!
Posted by: simplysimon, burnley on 1:14pm Fri 14 Mar 08
We all Know how to live each day as if it is a Miracle. We did that when we were very young. It has been covered over with all these other issues of this and that.
Man needs to re-claim that feeling. I need to re-claim that feeling. Every Single DAY!
We all Know how to live each day as if it is a Miracle. We did that when we were very young. It has been covered over with all these other issues of this and that.
Man needs to re-claim that feeling. I need to re-claim that feeling. Every Single DAY!
Posted by: Ian the Beancounter, Darwen on 1:16pm Fri 14 Mar 08
[quote]formulae. Our need for [italic][bold]a[/bold][/italic] formulae [/quote]
Slipping again, James! "Formulae" is plural, but using "a" before it singularises it. It should be "formula". Take 100 lines!! :-))
formulae. Our need for a formulae
Slipping again, James! "Formulae" is plural, but using "a" before it singularises it. It should be "formula". Take 100 lines!! :-))
Posted by: Archdeacon John, Blackburn on 1:43pm Fri 14 Mar 08
Marcus
Thanks for your comments. The C of E does have a strong ethical investment policy which is strongly monitored.The property owned by the C of E and its investments are used to pay for the running of the c of E - making sure that the clergy are paid and housed, and that the pensions of the clergy are paid. The C of E has many restrictions on how it can spend its money from investments.
Wherever we can we would want to invest in social and affordable housing - but as a charity we are bound by rules to get the best price for the selling of assets. The C of E has been involved in various social housing projects mainly through its parishes - and has done an amazing amount of work in the poorest areas of our country through the funding of the Church Urban fund - which Christians in Lancashire gave over £1million to.
I am not against people owning property - tho I do not personally own my own home - my contention is that when we know that we need to build more homes to accommodate the people who live here - why is it not made more difficult for people to have multiple homes ? It seems that if you have money then you can do anything - and the government and society lets you. Like the non - doms who benefit enormously from the UK economy but put nothing back in taxes.
Marcus - I am not aqainst immigration - but surely we know that this New Labour government had no idea that so many would come from the Eastern european countries - willing to work - but needing housing, education and health provision which our UK government was not ready for. We have genrally good relations with the Asian Heritage communities in East Lancs - and it had taken time for this to be the case - but the sudden influx of much larger numbers from Europe and other places of need has put enormous pressure on places like Peterborough and Slough. Better planning as aprt of government policy would have helped. Of course such an influx does put pressure on housing provision.
Thanks for agreeing about tax policy issues.
Ian the Beancounter - hello again !
Well you can say all you like about anecdoatl stories from parents and grandparents but the vast majority of scientists and ecologists are agreed that Global warming is an issue - only people like Jeremy Clarkson - who has strong opinions but no real knowledge speak against it.
Yes booze is freely available and cheap today - cheap enough for most kids to buy it with todays amount of pocket money.But many young folk are bored - and want a buzz so drink.Whilst there are still some adults who are prepared to give time to run youth organisations - it is more and more difficult to get adults to do this. We have very stringent rules about vetting anyone responsibilbe for children - people don`t have time to give because we are trying to earn money to keep going - and because we have much more opportunitlocal for our own leisure pursuits. Governemnt and Local Authorityy budgets have been cut in the past so that Youth Clubs - and there were many have beennclosed and Youth services cut in many areas of UK. PM Gordon announced at the beginning of his time that he wanted to give priority to more Youth provision but my experience tells me that it will only last for a short time - and eventually be cut back.
I would hope that in partnership with Government the church and the education services and other community organisations might work together to make better youth provision that will last and will helpour young people into a more positive way to spend their time - and I believe that sport could help too.
What is the right thing to say ? I admit to being part of the Established Church but my ministry for 34 years has been in the centre of some of the most deprived and difficult areas of the north of England- where I have been confronted by many issues of poverty and depravation. I assure you that at times my opinions - my preaching and teaching have challenged the establishment wherever I have found injustice and a lack of awareness of real need. We are not all `yes men`- and we have our own opinions.
Leane - thanks for coming on board. I agree its society - its us - but its not easy to get government to respond to the issues. You vite for what you are presented with - and if the political parties are not addressing the issues you think they should then what can be done ? We know that all three of the major parties seem to be trying to fill the middle ground with little distinction between them.
How do you mobilise opinion and move society ? Is it through press campaigns How do you do it ?
Thanks for your responses.
Archdeacon John.
Marcus
Thanks for your comments. The C of E does have a strong ethical investment policy which is strongly monitored.The property owned by the C of E and its investments are used to pay for the running of the c of E - making sure that the clergy are paid and housed, and that the pensions of the clergy are paid. The C of E has many restrictions on how it can spend its money from investments.
Wherever we can we would want to invest in social and affordable housing - but as a charity we are bound by rules to get the best price for the selling of assets. The C of E has been involved in various social housing projects mainly through its parishes - and has done an amazing amount of work in the poorest areas of our country through the funding of the Church Urban fund - which Christians in Lancashire gave over £1million to.
I am not against people owning property - tho I do not personally own my own home - my contention is that when we know that we need to build more homes to accommodate the people who live here - why is it not made more difficult for people to have multiple homes ? It seems that if you have money then you can do anything - and the government and society lets you. Like the non - doms who benefit enormously from the UK economy but put nothing back in taxes.
Marcus - I am not aqainst immigration - but surely we know that this New Labour government had no idea that so many would come from the Eastern european countries - willing to work - but needing housing, education and health provision which our UK government was not ready for. We have genrally good relations with the Asian Heritage communities in East Lancs - and it had taken time for this to be the case - but the sudden influx of much larger numbers from Europe and other places of need has put enormous pressure on places like Peterborough and Slough. Better planning as aprt of government policy would have helped. Of course such an influx does put pressure on housing provision.
Thanks for agreeing about tax policy issues.
Ian the Beancounter - hello again !
Well you can say all you like about anecdoatl stories from parents and grandparents but the vast majority of scientists and ecologists are agreed that Global warming is an issue - only people like Jeremy Clarkson - who has strong opinions but no real knowledge speak against it.
Yes booze is freely available and cheap today - cheap enough for most kids to buy it with todays amount of pocket money.But many young folk are bored - and want a buzz so drink.Whilst there are still some adults who are prepared to give time to run youth organisations - it is more and more difficult to get adults to do this. We have very stringent rules about vetting anyone responsibilbe for children - people don`t have time to give because we are trying to earn money to keep going - and because we have much more opportunitlocal for our own leisure pursuits. Governemnt and Local Authorityy budgets have been cut in the past so that Youth Clubs - and there were many have beennclosed and Youth services cut in many areas of UK. PM Gordon announced at the beginning of his time that he wanted to give priority to more Youth provision but my experience tells me that it will only last for a short time - and eventually be cut back.
I would hope that in partnership with Government the church and the education services and other community organisations might work together to make better youth provision that will last and will helpour young people into a more positive way to spend their time - and I believe that sport could help too.
What is the right thing to say ? I admit to being part of the Established Church but my ministry for 34 years has been in the centre of some of the most deprived and difficult areas of the north of England- where I have been confronted by many issues of poverty and depravation. I assure you that at times my opinions - my preaching and teaching have challenged the establishment wherever I have found injustice and a lack of awareness of real need. We are not all `yes men`- and we have our own opinions.
Leane - thanks for coming on board. I agree its society - its us - but its not easy to get government to respond to the issues. You vite for what you are presented with - and if the political parties are not addressing the issues you think they should then what can be done ? We know that all three of the major parties seem to be trying to fill the middle ground with little distinction between them.
How do you mobilise opinion and move society ? Is it through press campaigns How do you do it ?
[quote]The C of E does have a strong ethical investment policy which is strongly monitored[/quote]
All very well as a corporate "mission statement", but appears to include
*selling off London parking spaces on 99 year leases at 70k a time
*Deliberately bankrupting honest hard working folk who happen to live next to a church and then get royally stiffed by the church under Chancelry Repair Liability law. Despite reassurances from the church to the contrary.
NEVER BUY A PROPERTY NEXT TO A CHURCH.
The searches and so on do not tell you about this. The first you know is when the bishop sends you a bill for £200,000 for HIS roof!
*only 16% of the revenues from CofE property assets are used in the way you state. Most of the rest remains for good old fashioned capitalism.....
As with all things, the detail may well show a different picture to the headlines.
Parting anecdote:
Our local catholic church is flourishing thanks to immigration.
Collection takings must be going through the rook (they do a sunday service in Polish......)
The C of E does have a strong ethical investment policy which is strongly monitored
All very well as a corporate "mission statement", but appears to include
*selling off London parking spaces on 99 year leases at 70k a time
*Deliberately bankrupting honest hard working folk who happen to live next to a church and then get royally stiffed by the church under Chancelry Repair Liability law. Despite reassurances from the church to the contrary.
NEVER BUY A PROPERTY NEXT TO A CHURCH.
The searches and so on do not tell you about this. The first you know is when the bishop sends you a bill for £200,000 for HIS roof!
*only 16% of the revenues from CofE property assets are used in the way you state. Most of the rest remains for good old fashioned capitalism.....
As with all things, the detail may well show a different picture to the headlines.
Parting anecdote:
Our local catholic church is flourishing thanks to immigration.
Collection takings must be going through the rook (they do a sunday service in Polish......)
Posted by: simplysimon, burnley on 4:29pm Fri 14 Mar 08
Religion is an Industry. Something never honestly owned up to or mentioned in Church. There are financial Investement decisions being made on a daily basis. There is nothing wrong with that in itself. It's the 'attachment' to the wealth creation that I would be worried about.
Faith is a different matter. It has more of a connection with the Heart than any Religion.
Religion is an Industry. Something never honestly owned up to or mentioned in Church. There are financial Investement decisions being made on a daily basis. There is nothing wrong with that in itself. It's the 'attachment' to the wealth creation that I would be worried about.
Faith is a different matter. It has more of a connection with the Heart than any Religion.
Posted by: simplysimon, burnley on 4:42pm Fri 14 Mar 08
You want to hear about a Miracle?
You are a Miracle. In you comes this Breath that is the kiss of the Creator coming into you. Touching You, bringing You Life!
Life is the Magic that allows you to see, to hear, to feel, to think, to smile, to be, and to feel happiness, joy and peace.
You want to hear about a Miracle?
You are a Miracle. In you comes this Breath that is the kiss of the Creator coming into you. Touching You, bringing You Life!
Life is the Magic that allows you to see, to hear, to feel, to think, to smile, to be, and to feel happiness, joy and peace.
Posted by: Leanne, Lancashire on 9:18pm Fri 14 Mar 08
I would agree that none of the three major parties has particularly distinctive or radical environmental policies. We all have choices about the lifestyles we lead, regardless of what party is in government. I have absolutely no suggestions for how to change millions of people’s choices about their lifestyles.
I would agree that none of the three major parties has particularly distinctive or radical environmental policies. We all have choices about the lifestyles we lead, regardless of what party is in government. I have absolutely no suggestions for how to change millions of people’s choices about their lifestyles.
Posted by: simplysimon, burnley on 1:55pm Sat 15 Mar 08
Leanne
Recognise the Kiss of the Creator coming into you. Keeping You Alive! This Eternal Breath!
Accept the Beauty and the Kindness and the Tenderness of that.
[bold]This is my message to mankind.[/bold]
Leanne
Recognise the Kiss of the Creator coming into you. Keeping You Alive! This Eternal Breath!
Accept the Beauty and the Kindness and the Tenderness of that.
"Archbeacon John" - have some respect, James Cronshaw. Who do you think you are? Address clergy properly next time. You are displaying the height of bad manners in your mode of address.
"Archbeacon John" - have some respect, James Cronshaw. Who do you think you are? Address clergy properly next time. You are displaying the height of bad manners in your mode of address.
Posted by: simplysimon, burnley on 2:18pm Sat 15 Mar 08
Don't focus on the vain short-term ugliness of man-made conflict and discord.
Appreciate the Beauty of A BREATH! There is nothing else so in Harmony with you. Nothing else so Loyal to you. Nothing man has made is more worthy of your Heart-felt Appreciation.
Let this Breath be Your Divinity! because that is exactly what it is.
Don't focus on the vain short-term ugliness of man-made conflict and discord.
Appreciate the Beauty of A BREATH! There is nothing else so in Harmony with you. Nothing else so Loyal to you. Nothing man has made is more worthy of your Heart-felt Appreciation.
Let this Breath be Your Divinity! because that is exactly what it is.
Posted by: Archdeacon John, Blackburn on 8:40pm Sat 15 Mar 08
From Archdeacon John - I`m sorry but this is the third time I have tried to post my commnets on this blog - trying to answer those of you who have taken the trouble to respond. I`m sorry not to have been able to respond more quickly but the system has not helped me.
Marcus - its very unfortunate to have an ancient law that asks `lay rectors ` to pay up for some church repairs. Needs repealing. Also its nothing to do with Bishop`s and their roofs. Also if you are a church in cnetral London then your costs are high so you need to use whatever assets you have to raise money for maintenance of the building - if hiring our car parking spaces is LUrative then why not ?
Also yes its good to have Polish Catholics strengthening the English church - as the Black Africans have strenthened the church in our main big cities - wonderful liveliness of faith.
Simply simon - no we are not an industry...not like some TV channels in USA - because if we were we wouild need to be better organised and have different rules. No Bishop or even Archdeacon can close an Anglican church - its a democratic system - and only a PCC can close a church. Clergy with freeholod can hold office till they are 70 without bothering about their Bishops - and even those who are without freehold are in tied cottages - and therefore unlikely to be ousted. We are dependant on the `giving` of most of the clergy and the congregations in our churches to pay for the church buildings and contribute subsatntially towards the clergy costs. Its a voluntary gift.
Leanne - thanks for responding. Its all very difficult to be able to get a major movement working. Perhaps - sadly it will only be when another climate disaster happensd that people will begin to respond.
Chelsea and simply simon - thanks for your respect. Its not a big deal - Archdeacons are called all sorts of things - it goes with the territory. We are supposed to be the `eyes and ears` of the Bishop - and are often regaded as the `engine room` ofthe church by some.
Than ks for taking part.
ArchdeaCON jOHN
From Archdeacon John - I`m sorry but this is the third time I have tried to post my commnets on this blog - trying to answer those of you who have taken the trouble to respond. I`m sorry not to have been able to respond more quickly but the system has not helped me.
Marcus - its very unfortunate to have an ancient law that asks `lay rectors ` to pay up for some church repairs. Needs repealing. Also its nothing to do with Bishop`s and their roofs. Also if you are a church in cnetral London then your costs are high so you need to use whatever assets you have to raise money for maintenance of the building - if hiring our car parking spaces is LUrative then why not ?
Also yes its good to have Polish Catholics strengthening the English church - as the Black Africans have strenthened the church in our main big cities - wonderful liveliness of faith.
Simply simon - no we are not an industry...not like some TV channels in USA - because if we were we wouild need to be better organised and have different rules. No Bishop or even Archdeacon can close an Anglican church - its a democratic system - and only a PCC can close a church. Clergy with freeholod can hold office till they are 70 without bothering about their Bishops - and even those who are without freehold are in tied cottages - and therefore unlikely to be ousted. We are dependant on the `giving` of most of the clergy and the congregations in our churches to pay for the church buildings and contribute subsatntially towards the clergy costs. Its a voluntary gift.
Leanne - thanks for responding. Its all very difficult to be able to get a major movement working. Perhaps - sadly it will only be when another climate disaster happensd that people will begin to respond.
Chelsea and simply simon - thanks for your respect. Its not a big deal - Archdeacons are called all sorts of things - it goes with the territory. We are supposed to be the `eyes and ears` of the Bishop - and are often regaded as the `engine room` ofthe church by some.
Posted by: simplysimon, burnley on 1:40pm Sun 16 Mar 08
Dear Archbeacon,
You are an Individual who works in the Christian Faith Industry. You are an official representative, an area manager for the bish.
I have nothing against that. You are only doing your job. Everyne has a job to do. I don't in any way dis-respect you. (I am just having a bit of fun with your title) I do not dis-respect your service in any way.
Religion depends to some degree on wealth-creation and donation. I don't have a problem with that. I may have concern with regard to distribution and management of that wealth.
But then everyone in this world seems to be concerned about wealth. [bold]I am in this world.[/bold]
Dear Archbeacon,
You are an Individual who works in the Christian Faith Industry. You are an official representative, an area manager for the bish.
I have nothing against that. You are only doing your job. Everyne has a job to do. I don't in any way dis-respect you. (I am just having a bit of fun with your title) I do not dis-respect your service in any way.
Religion depends to some degree on wealth-creation and donation. I don't have a problem with that. I may have concern with regard to distribution and management of that wealth.
But then everyone in this world seems to be concerned about wealth. I am in this world.
Posted by: Archdeacon John, Blackburn on 9:41pm Sun 16 Mar 08
Simply simon
No probs - I didn`t take it as disrespectful - many call me Archdemon - and today I was called Archbishop ! Not bovvered. But thanks for your response.
Yes - the C of E could be more radical with its buildings and supposed wealth - but in the end - the money simply pays for the clergy to do their work - and we use the interest from investments to help with that - its not about wealth creation for its own sake.
Yes - I`m doing a job - but the most important thing for me is to respond to what I belive is callijng on my life - to be a priest -= and then to tell the Good News - and help folk to come to a living faith in Jesus which - I hopoe then not only transforms their lives but also in transforming their lives helps to transform the unjust structures of society wherever that may be.
By the way - did you see the BBC version of `The Passion` tonight ? I thought it very good.
Have a good and thoughtful Holy Week.
Archy-deacon John.
Simply simon
No probs - I didn`t take it as disrespectful - many call me Archdemon - and today I was called Archbishop ! Not bovvered. But thanks for your response.
Yes - the C of E could be more radical with its buildings and supposed wealth - but in the end - the money simply pays for the clergy to do their work - and we use the interest from investments to help with that - its not about wealth creation for its own sake.
Yes - I`m doing a job - but the most important thing for me is to respond to what I belive is callijng on my life - to be a priest -= and then to tell the Good News - and help folk to come to a living faith in Jesus which - I hopoe then not only transforms their lives but also in transforming their lives helps to transform the unjust structures of society wherever that may be.
By the way - did you see the BBC version of `The Passion` tonight ? I thought it very good.
Posted by: simplysimon, burnley on 12:46pm Mon 17 Mar 08
Hello Archie,
I did watch a little bit of it. I haven't decided on it just yet. (Roman Guards with geordie accents.) What happened to Acting!
'Words of such Beauty from a carpenter.' That did touch me though.
To me the message of Jesus is very simple. The Greatest Beauty is with you. The Ultimate Divinity is with you. Joy un-paralleld is with you. The constant Peace is with you. Everything your Heart is looking for is with you. The Heaven you seek is within you.
Outside is a lot of distractions. It sorts out the men from the boys. Those who are happy to be entertained with earthly comforts and those who need to Know the Truth.
I hope to encourage People, to Understand the difference between fleeting pleasures that come and go and the Eternal Bliss that is within them. Waiting for them.
What Man is looking for has been placed within himself. The Eternal Divinity is within the body of every Man. Man is Sacred because of that Presence. The Creation is the form, the Creator is Form-less, Un-formed. The Soul.
The Soul is like a little drop. It isn't the Ocean but it contains every single property of the Vast Ocean. Nothing is missing in that little drop. Nothing.
A little drop of Consciousness goes a very long way. Consciousness is never absent from us. It is not man-made. We have Consciousness with us. It is Creative. Not Created.
If Man realised what he has, He would never want again. I think it is a matter of REALISATION! I Know Jesus would agree.
Hello Archie,
I did watch a little bit of it. I haven't decided on it just yet. (Roman Guards with geordie accents.) What happened to Acting!
'Words of such Beauty from a carpenter.' That did touch me though.
To me the message of Jesus is very simple. The Greatest Beauty is with you. The Ultimate Divinity is with you. Joy un-paralleld is with you. The constant Peace is with you. Everything your Heart is looking for is with you. The Heaven you seek is within you.
Outside is a lot of distractions. It sorts out the men from the boys. Those who are happy to be entertained with earthly comforts and those who need to Know the Truth.
I hope to encourage People, to Understand the difference between fleeting pleasures that come and go and the Eternal Bliss that is within them. Waiting for them.
What Man is looking for has been placed within himself. The Eternal Divinity is within the body of every Man. Man is Sacred because of that Presence. The Creation is the form, the Creator is Form-less, Un-formed. The Soul.
The Soul is like a little drop. It isn't the Ocean but it contains every single property of the Vast Ocean. Nothing is missing in that little drop. Nothing.
A little drop of Consciousness goes a very long way. Consciousness is never absent from us. It is not man-made. We have Consciousness with us. It is Creative. Not Created.
If Man realised what he has, He would never want again. I think it is a matter of REALISATION! I Know Jesus would agree.
[quote][bold]are we serious enough about addressing our carbon footprint?[/bold][/quote]
[quote][bold]if hiring our car parking spaces is LUrative then why not[/bold][/quote]
Well then clearly the CofE is not serious about reducing carbon footprint; it is happy to preach to us that we should reduce our carbon footprint whilst simultaneously profiteering from encouraging car owners to drive into London by selling them a parking space!
Basic Double standards, or “do as I say not as I do?”
[quote]Needs repealing[/quote]
A bit too late and of little comfort to those who have been bankrupted and evicted by your colleagues and superiors who clearly put profit before Christianity.
The average vicar can be a perfectly decent individual with respect for and of the community.
Unfortunately the examples above are just two of why I don't think that the institutions of religion deserve and respect at all.
One correspondent refers to religion as industry. I would go further - it’s a [italic]business driven for the benefit of those at the top of it[/italic] .
The CofE is first and foremost a money making business – and a pretty ruthless one at that!
are we serious enough about addressing our carbon footprint?
if hiring our car parking spaces is LUrative then why not
Well then clearly the CofE is not serious about reducing carbon footprint; it is happy to preach to us that we should reduce our carbon footprint whilst simultaneously profiteering from encouraging car owners to drive into London by selling them a parking space!
Basic Double standards, or “do as I say not as I do?”
Needs repealing
A bit too late and of little comfort to those who have been bankrupted and evicted by your colleagues and superiors who clearly put profit before Christianity.
The average vicar can be a perfectly decent individual with respect for and of the community.
Unfortunately the examples above are just two of why I don't think that the institutions of religion deserve and respect at all.
One correspondent refers to religion as industry. I would go further - it’s a business driven for the benefit of those at the top of it .
The CofE is first and foremost a money making business – and a pretty ruthless one at that!
Posted by: simplysimon, burnley on 3:54pm Mon 17 Mar 08
Hi Marcus,
What institution or organisation does not keep one eye on it's financial well-being. I cannot think of one.
Money puts oil on the wheels. It does not always dictate the direction of the wheels.
If the aim is Contentment for Humanity. Then why not support a cause like that. Regardless of what it costs to implement that cause. I can support such a Reality. Regardless of it's past errors and Traditions.
Are the clergy the servants of Human Contentment or the slaves of the past?
It's the Sincerity of the People that count. Not the Institution, as you point out in your post. That Sincerity is Price-less!
Hi Marcus,
What institution or organisation does not keep one eye on it's financial well-being. I cannot think of one.
Money puts oil on the wheels. It does not always dictate the direction of the wheels.
If the aim is Contentment for Humanity. Then why not support a cause like that. Regardless of what it costs to implement that cause. I can support such a Reality. Regardless of it's past errors and Traditions.
Are the clergy the servants of Human Contentment or the slaves of the past?
It's the Sincerity of the People that count. Not the Institution, as you point out in your post. That Sincerity is Price-less!
Posted by: Debbie, Blackburn on 4:58pm Mon 17 Mar 08
Simple Simon I know the Archdeacon said he didn't mind what you called him I think "Archie" is taking it a bit far. It shows lack of respect a problem that is rife at the moment.
Simple Simon I know the Archdeacon said he didn't mind what you called him I think "Archie" is taking it a bit far. It shows lack of respect a problem that is rife at the moment.
Posted by: simplysimon, burnley on 5:23pm Mon 17 Mar 08
Hi Debbie,
I think he knows. I respect him for the Divinity he is rather than the temporary nature of his title.
He might change his title. He will never lose his Divinity.
It must be nice to have you on his side though.
Hi Debbie,
I think he knows. I respect him for the Divinity he is rather than the temporary nature of his title.
He might change his title. He will never lose his Divinity.
Posted by: Archdeacon John, Blackburn on 11:36pm Mon 17 Mar 08
From Archdeacon John
Debbie - thanks for your support. Yes - its good to have Debbie working for us.
Marcus - we live in a complex world. Making decisions is complex. In the end - whatever I do or we do as a nation - which we ought to takie seriously - the future o0f the planet depends on India, China and tghe USA - and certain other countries in Europe who are belching out Carbon dioxide etc way beyond the importance of a parking space in London.
Simply Simon -I know that respect must be earned - not assumed by title.
The Ven.
From Archdeacon John
Debbie - thanks for your support. Yes - its good to have Debbie working for us.
Marcus - we live in a complex world. Making decisions is complex. In the end - whatever I do or we do as a nation - which we ought to takie seriously - the future o0f the planet depends on India, China and tghe USA - and certain other countries in Europe who are belching out Carbon dioxide etc way beyond the importance of a parking space in London.
Simply Simon -I know that respect must be earned - not assumed by title.
Posted by: simplysimon, burnley on 11:32am Tue 18 Mar 08
Now Ven,
I understand the big hoo-ha about climate change. I am not so sure that the Church should be jumping onto the big green bandwagon.
Climate change will always be with you. When did the Climate not change? But what about that place where the Climate is always Perfect. That place where no flood can reach. That place where no fire can burn. That place where no thief can rob. That place where no Invaders can overthrow. What about that Place?
There is a Place like that. On any day that Climate is just Perfect. That Climate is made for you, always, always, Perfect.
Your Existence was made in the Hope that YOU would be Impressed with it. Man was not made to stop this Climate from changing. These changes are only temporary, and very probably necessary.
It isn't about the changes. It is about that which will never, ever, ever, change. It is about Celebrating the Eternal Gift that You have been given. Not looking at the faults that Man has caused, not focusing on the problems that Man has invented.
Discover the Impeccable. Participate in the Festival of YOUR EXISTENCE. There will never be another Festival like that. Embrace the Eternal Flower that has been sown in the Garden of your Heart. There is no amount of storms that will ever destroy a Garden like. that.
Jesus did not come to jump on the bandwagon of the day. His mission was not about gaining popularity. His Agenda was not a Green one. He was not interested in changing the climate of the world.
He came to change the climate within the Heart.
Now Ven,
I understand the big hoo-ha about climate change. I am not so sure that the Church should be jumping onto the big green bandwagon.
Climate change will always be with you. When did the Climate not change? But what about that place where the Climate is always Perfect. That place where no flood can reach. That place where no fire can burn. That place where no thief can rob. That place where no Invaders can overthrow. What about that Place?
There is a Place like that. On any day that Climate is just Perfect. That Climate is made for you, always, always, Perfect.
Your Existence was made in the Hope that YOU would be Impressed with it. Man was not made to stop this Climate from changing. These changes are only temporary, and very probably necessary.
It isn't about the changes. It is about that which will never, ever, ever, change. It is about Celebrating the Eternal Gift that You have been given. Not looking at the faults that Man has caused, not focusing on the problems that Man has invented.
Discover the Impeccable. Participate in the Festival of YOUR EXISTENCE. There will never be another Festival like that. Embrace the Eternal Flower that has been sown in the Garden of your Heart. There is no amount of storms that will ever destroy a Garden like. that.
Jesus did not come to jump on the bandwagon of the day. His mission was not about gaining popularity. His Agenda was not a Green one. He was not interested in changing the climate of the world.
Posted by: Leanne, Lancashire on 3:07pm Tue 18 Mar 08
[quote]Leanne - thanks for responding. Its all very difficult to be able to get a major movement working. Perhaps - sadly it will only be when another climate disaster happens that people will begin to respond.[/quote]
Thank you for replying, Archdeacon. Unfortunately it seems that there are all kinds of ecological disasters happening at this very moment: deforestation, habitat loss, mass species extinction, pollution such as the plastic soups in the Pacific Ocean, which I have just read about today.
We are all free to respond to these problems as individuals, regardless of nationality, and choose to respect, or to disrespect the environment around us, God's creation or Ultimate Miracle or whatever we may, as individuals, believe it to be.
Leanne - thanks for responding. Its all very difficult to be able to get a major movement working. Perhaps - sadly it will only be when another climate disaster happens that people will begin to respond.
Thank you for replying, Archdeacon. Unfortunately it seems that there are all kinds of ecological disasters happening at this very moment: deforestation, habitat loss, mass species extinction, pollution such as the plastic soups in the Pacific Ocean, which I have just read about today.
We are all free to respond to these problems as individuals, regardless of nationality, and choose to respect, or to disrespect the environment around us, God's creation or Ultimate Miracle or whatever we may, as individuals, believe it to be.
Posted by: simplysimon, burnley on 3:38pm Tue 18 Mar 08
We come and we go, we make an entrance and we make an exit. This is the nature of our time in this world.
I suppose the biggest tragedy is not to Know why? Every day there is a disaster, happening to someone, somewhere. I am not sure a disaster that is a 'Green Disaster' is going to be enough to unite mankind.
Disasters can come in many colours. As an Individual I cannot change the colour of a Disaster.
I can however recognise the Treasure of this Bautiful Life. This shimmering rhythm of this Breath that is being bestowed every Moment. I can Admire that Power. I can be soothed by that Tenderness. I can do that as an Individual. Without any impediment, I can Appreciate the Generosity and Super-Abundance of a Breath. Even if the Oxygen is polluted. I can still Appreciate the Gift I am being given.
Where does this Power to Exist come from.... I don't know, But I have it! Even if I ignore it and dis-regard it. I still have it!
We come and we go, we make an entrance and we make an exit. This is the nature of our time in this world.
I suppose the biggest tragedy is not to Know why? Every day there is a disaster, happening to someone, somewhere. I am not sure a disaster that is a 'Green Disaster' is going to be enough to unite mankind.
Disasters can come in many colours. As an Individual I cannot change the colour of a Disaster.
I can however recognise the Treasure of this Bautiful Life. This shimmering rhythm of this Breath that is being bestowed every Moment. I can Admire that Power. I can be soothed by that Tenderness. I can do that as an Individual. Without any impediment, I can Appreciate the Generosity and Super-Abundance of a Breath. Even if the Oxygen is polluted. I can still Appreciate the Gift I am being given.
Where does this Power to Exist come from.... I don't know, But I have it! Even if I ignore it and dis-regard it. I still have it!
Posted by: Marcus, London on 10:23am Wed 19 Mar 08
[quote] future o0f the planet depends on India, China and tghe USA - and certain other countries in Europe who are belching out Carbon dioxide etc way beyond the importance of a parking space in London.[/quote]
Ah, the classic "Richard Littlejohn" argument; developing countries are polluting to enormous levels so why should I change [italic]my[/italic] behaviour.
To get respect:
Set an example, practice what you preach.
Sorry but I really can't take the CofE seriously when it attempts to put across a message about global warming or the environment unless it sorts out it's own house first!
You will find that developing nations have the same opinion. We should put our own house in order before trying to tell them what to do. Otherwise they will accuse us of deliberately holding them back.
future o0f the planet depends on India, China and tghe USA - and certain other countries in Europe who are belching out Carbon dioxide etc way beyond the importance of a parking space in London.
Ah, the classic "Richard Littlejohn" argument; developing countries are polluting to enormous levels so why should I change my behaviour.
To get respect:
Set an example, practice what you preach.
Sorry but I really can't take the CofE seriously when it attempts to put across a message about global warming or the environment unless it sorts out it's own house first!
You will find that developing nations have the same opinion. We should put our own house in order before trying to tell them what to do. Otherwise they will accuse us of deliberately holding them back.
Posted by: simplysimon, burnley on 12:58pm Wed 19 Mar 08
Hi Marcus,
The Religious house has been polluting the Consciousness of humanity before the word pollution was even invented. It has a head start on any institution when it comes to pollution.
It is a ruin that needs to be pulled down. There is a Perfect Palace for Humanity. The Keys to that Palace are ready for those who need them.
Hi Marcus,
The Religious house has been polluting the Consciousness of humanity before the word pollution was even invented. It has a head start on any institution when it comes to pollution.
It is a ruin that needs to be pulled down. There is a Perfect Palace for Humanity. The Keys to that Palace are ready for those who need them.
Posted by: Archdeacon John, Blackburn on 10:28pm Thu 20 Mar 08
From Archdeacon John - O come on Marcus - lets have some honesty and truth here - keep bashing if you want - but read what I wrote - not what you think I wrote - I did say that we should put our own house in order - we must - but not with gestures - but the plain fact is that if the USA, and India and China and other main carbon emitting countries don`t get on with things then we are stuffed ! Its not about the developing countries in isolation - its all of us and its the USA that need to take the lead because of their huge output.
Its not Littlejohn that I`m a follower of when it comes to climate change but I do listen to Lovelock.How about you ?
Archdeacon john
From Archdeacon John - O come on Marcus - lets have some honesty and truth here - keep bashing if you want - but read what I wrote - not what you think I wrote - I did say that we should put our own house in order - we must - but not with gestures - but the plain fact is that if the USA, and India and China and other main carbon emitting countries don`t get on with things then we are stuffed ! Its not about the developing countries in isolation - its all of us and its the USA that need to take the lead because of their huge output.
Its not Littlejohn that I`m a follower of when it comes to climate change but I do listen to Lovelock.How about you ?
If you liked this article and would like to share it with others on the web who might be searching for good content we've made it easy for you to do it.
At the bottom of all articles, you'll see links to six sites. These sites - commonly called 'social bookmark' or 'social news' sites - have large communities of web users who share and rate interesting, useful and fun things on the web.
Clicking the links will automatically add the address of the story you are reading to one of these sites, letting you share it with others. Each site will ask you to register to share stories. Registration is free and once a member, you can store, recommend and search for stories that interest you.
Print
Email this
Comment
