“Our Church Speaks”

"Our Church Speaks" is an illustration series featuring the words of Christians from around the globe, across traditions, and throughout the centuries.

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Mar 22

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“Never, my brethren, will the church be able to do her full work until with clear, ringing voice she proclaims… the truth and the power of the presence of her incarnate Lord.” - James DeKoven (1831-1879), Priest

James DeKoven was born in Connecticut and left the comforts of New England to teach at Nashotah House, a new frontier seminary in Wisconsin. He became an Episcopal priest in 1855 and became known as an advocate of the high church movement of ‘ritualism.’ DeKoven believed that many valuable practices of the ancient church had been lost during the Reformation and subsequent centuries of Protestantism. He called the church to acknowledge the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist and encouraged the church to restore weekly, and even daily, celebration of the Lord’s Supper. His teaching was controversial during his lifetime, but his influence inspired much of the Anglican Communion to adopt his Eucharistic convictions in the century to come.

O God, our heavenly Father, you raised up your faithful servant James DeKoven to be a pastor in your Church and to feed your flock: Give abundantly to all pastors the gifts of your Holy Spirit, that they may minister in your household as true servants of Christ and stewards of your divine mysteries; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

www.ourchurchspeaks.com

#ourchurchspeaks #jamesdekoven #nashotahhouse #realpresence #churchhistory #anglican #anglicanism #bookofcommonprayer #bookofcommonprayer2019

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Mar 21

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“Blessed Lord, who caused all Holy Scripture to be written for our learning: Grant us so to hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that we may embrace and ever hold fast the blessed hope … in Jesus Christ.” - Thomas Cranmer (1489-1556), Archbishop of Canterbury & Martyr

Thomas Cranmer was Archbishop of Canterbury during the volatile years of the English Reformation. Educated at Cambridge, he became convinced that the Catholic Church needed reform. He earned the trust of King Henry VIII and was named Archbishop of Canterbury in 1533. In this significant office, Cranmer worked carefully within the drama of the royal court to nudge the Church of England toward independence from Rome. Cranmer compiled the Book of Common Prayer and influenced Henry VIII to authorize the mass production of it and English Bibles. The throne of England returned to Roman Catholicism with the ascension of Mary I. Queen Mary (nicknamed “Bloody Mary”) ordered the execution of those complicit in the English Reformation. In fear for his life, Cranmer renounced Protestantism, but his friends, Hugh Latimer and Nicholas Ridley, chose to burn rather than deny their beliefs. Witnessing their courage, Cranmer regained his conviction and renounced his renunciation. Cranmer was tied to a stake and as the flames leapt around him, he placed his right hand into the fire, declaring that his “unworthy hand” that had signed his renunciation would burn first. Within 3 years of Cranmer’s death, the Church of England returned to Protestantism and Cranmer’s work became consequential in shaping the prayers and worship of all English language Christianity.

O God, our heavenly Father, you raised up your faithful servant Thomas Cranmer to be a Bishop and pastor in your Church and to feed your flock: Give abundantly to all pastors the gifts of your Holy Spirit, that they may minister in your household as true servants of Christ and stewards of your divine mysteries; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

#ourchurchspeaks #anglicanism #anglican #bookofcommonprayer #martyr #reformation #archbishopofcanterbury

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Mar 20

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“Rise, brother, and do not weep, but rejoice greatly because [of] the mercy of heaven.” - Cuthbert (c. 634-687), Bishop-Abbot of Lindisfarne & Missionary

Cuthbert was born in southern Scotland in the Anglo-Saxon kingdom of Northumbria. A series of dreams and prophecies convinced the young Cuthbert that the Lord was calling him to serve as a monk. He centered his ministry at the abbey of Lindsfarne and became known for his gentle devotion. He encouraged his fellow monks to look to God for all of their needs. While on a long walk in the wilderness, one of Cuthbert’s young disciples expressed anxiety about the source of their next meal. Pointing overhead to an eagle, Cuthbert said, “God can send us food by means of that eagle.” The eagle swept down and delivered a fish. Cuthbert cut the fish in two and gave half back to the eagle. On another occasion, one of Cuthbert’s disciples observed the monk up to his neck in the North Sea, singing psalms to God amidst the crashing of the waves. After finishing his prayers, the monk returned to shore, where his feet were dried and warmed by two sea otters. Cuthbert blessed the two otters before they scampered away. Through his teaching and example, Cuthbert demonstrated that nature itself testified to God’s faithful and loving care. After serving as a monk, abbot, and bishop, Cuthbert retired to a solitary hut on a small island where he prayed and ministered to the many pilgrims who journeyed seeking his counsel and blessing.

O God, your blessed Son became poor for our sake, and chose the Cross over the kingdoms of this world: Deliver us from an inordinate love of worldly things, that we, inspired by the devotion of your servant Cuthbert, may seek you with singleness of heart, behold your glory by faith, and attain to the riches of your everlasting kingdom, where we shall be united with our Savior Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

#ourchurchspeaks #saintcuthbert #waterotter #otter #eagle #celticchristianity #lindisfarne #abbey #abbot #anglican

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Mar 19

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“Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.” - Angel of the Lord to Joseph (Matthew 1:20)

Joseph was a descendant of King David, living in the 1st century in Roman Judaea and working as a carpenter. The Gospel of Matthew describes Joseph as “a just man.” He was betrothed to Mary when he learned that she became pregnant. They had not come together, and Mary insisted that the pregnancy was not from another man, but of the Holy Spirit. In compassion, Joseph decided to end the betrothal quietly. His plans were interrupted when an angel appeared to him, confirming Mary’s testimony and telling Joseph not to fear to take Mary as his wife. The child conceived in Mary would be named Jesus and he would save his people from their sins. With humility and strength, Joseph cared for Mary and Jesus for the remainder of his life. Another vision warned Joseph to lead his family into Egypt, to escape the dangerous rule of King Herod. Joseph later returned to Judaea with Mary and Jesus and lived in Nazareth. In Scripture, Joseph is last mentioned when Jesus was 12 years old. Christian tradition teaches that Joseph died before Jesus’ earthly ministry.

O God, who from the family of your servant David raised up Joseph to be the guardian of your incarnate Son and the husband of his virgin mother: Give us grace to imitate his uprightness of life and his obedience to your commands; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Prints available via www.ourchurchspeaks.com.

#ourchurchspeaks #saintjoseph #churchhistory #anglican #catholic #orthodox #bookofcommonprayer #bookofcommonprayer2019

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Mar 18

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“Your accumulated offenses do not surpass the multitude of God’s mercies; your wounds do not surpass the Great Physician’s skill.” - Cyril (318-386), Bishop of Jerusalem & Teacher of the Faith

Cyril was born in Jerusalem and became bishop of Jerusalem in 350. During Cyril’s day, Arian clergy taught that Jesus Christ was a divine creation, and not the eternal creator. This teaching was in opposition to the apostolic faith. Years before Cyril’s ordination, the Council of Nicaea (325) had answered the Arian heresy with an orthodox definition consistent with the teaching of the apostles. Despite this, Arian clergy maintained significant influence for many years to come. Cyril labored to defend the Trinitarian theology of Nicaea, but influential Arians opposed his ministry. For most of his 16 years as bishop, Cyril was forced into exile by Arian clergy and Arian Emperors. Despite this hardship, Cyril wrote works of Trinitarian theology during a critical period of history when the apostolic faith risked being completely suppressed by Arian opponents. Cyril’s work is of such scope and influence that, today, he is designated with the title, “Doctor of the Church.”

O God, our heavenly Father, you raised up your faithful servant Cyril to be a Bishop and pastor in your Church and to feed your flock: Give abundantly to all pastors the gifts of your Holy Spirit, that they may minister in your household as true servants of Christ and stewards of your divine mysteries; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Prints available via link in bio.

#cyril #cyrilofjerusalem#ourchurchspeaks #churchhistory #jerusalem #greatphysician#patristics #catholic #orthodox #anglican #bookofcommonprayer

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Mar 16

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“May the strength of God pilot us, may the wisdom of God instruct us, may the hand of God protect us, may the Word of God direct us. Be always ours this day and for evermore.” - Patrick (385-461), Bishop & Apostle to the Irish

Patrick was born in England during the final years of Roman rule in Britain. He was the son of a deacon and grandson of a priest, but as a young man he did not take his own faith seriously. At 16, he was kidnapped by Irish pirates and sold into slavery in pagan Ireland. During six years of slavery, Patrick came to believe in Jesus Christ as his only hope. He repented, converted, and grew in his faith while in captivity. In his early 20’s, Patrick heard a voice telling him that the time had come to flee his slave master and journey to the coast, where a ship would be waiting for him. The ship was waiting, just as Patrick had been told, and he undertook a harrowing journey back to his native England. He studied the faith in England and in Europe and was ordained a priest. One day, Patrick received a vision in which a multitude of Irish people called to him with one voice, "We appeal to you, holy servant boy, to come and walk among us." Patrick returned to the people who had once enslaved him, serving as a missionary. He faced danger from hostile pagans, contending with powerful kings and druids. With patience and courage, Patrick baptized and shepherded thousands through his committed ministry. // Prints available at www.ourchurchspeaks.com.

Almighty and everlasting God, you called your servant Patrick to preach the Gospel to the Irish people: Raise up in this and every land evangelists and heralds of your kingdom, that your Church may proclaim the unsearchable riches of our Savior Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

#saintpatricksday #saintpatrick #ourchurchspeaks#churchhistory #ireland #irish #patrick #catholic #orthodox#anglican #bookofcommonprayer

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Mar 13

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“Holy Scripture presents a kind of mirror to the eyes of the mind, so that our inner face may be seen in it. There we learn our own ugliness, there our own beauty.” - Gregory the Great (540-604), Bishop of Rome and Teacher of the Faith

Gregory was the son of a Roman senator and spent his early years in a mansion in Rome. He was destined for prestigious political office, but his love for Jesus Christ compelled him to turn instead to the humble life of a monk. Gregory gave up his entire, vast inheritance and converted his ancestral home into a monastery. This earned the respect of many and Gregory was unanimously elected Pope. Rome was in chaos at this time. Throughout Gregory’s life, social unrest, invasion, war, and pandemic had struck the Western Roman Empire to its knees, and the Pope was one of the few remaining institutional offices holding society together. Gregory was grieved by the thought that this momentous office should come to him. He remained in hiding in his monastery and even considered fleeing into the wilderness. Despite his protestations, he was captured and taken by force to his installation. He became Pope with reluctance, but he took the position seriously. During his fourteen years as pope, Gregory aided Rome’s defense against invaders, wrote significant works of theological literature, reformed the liturgy of the Western Rite, and sent Augustine as a missionary to England. He is considered one of the most significant fathers of the Western Church and one of the most important Popes in history.

Prints available via www.ourchurchspeaks.com.

O God, our heavenly Father, you raised up your faithful servant Gregory the Great to be a Bishop and pastor in your Church and to feed your flock: Give abundantly to all pastors the gifts of your Holy Spirit, that they may minister in your household as true servants of Christ and stewards of your divine mysteries; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

#popegregory #gregorythegreat #ourchurchspeaks #patristics #romancatholic #catholic #orthodox #anglican

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Mar 10

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“What is the real remedy for all the ills and necessities of the Church? Is it not the Baptism of the Spirit?... It is this that rouses [Christians] to willing self- sacrifice. It ... discloses to them the priceless value of the souls for whom Christ died.” - Robert Machray (1831-1904), First Primate of Canada

Robert Machray was born in Aberdeen, Scotland and raised in the Presbyterian church. He was gifted in mathematics and studied mathematics and theology at the University of Aberdeen and Cambridge University. While at Cambridge, he became a member of the Church of England and was ordained an Anglican priest in 1855. In 1865, he was commissioned to serve as Bishop of Rupert’s Land, a vast region of Canada, much of which lay above the Arctic Circle. As bishop, he championed missionary work, higher education, and sought better administrative organization to attend to the needs of those living in the vast regions under his care. Machray was a devoted servant of the church, known for his quiet humility, his wise organizational leadership, and for his enduring love of mathematics. Machray was often seen solving complex math formulas, for relaxation. During Machray’s service, Canadian confederation resulted in the foundation of a new, united and independent Anglican Province in Canada. Machray was named the first Archbishop ("Primate") of the Anglican Church of Canada in 1893.

O God, our heavenly Father, you raised up your faithful servant Robert Machray to be a Bishop and pastor in your Church and to feed your flock: Give abundantly to all pastors the gifts of your Holy Spirit, that they may minister in your household as true servants of Christ and stewards of your divine mysteries; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Prints and calendars available via www.ourchurchspeaks.com.

#ourchurchspeaks #robertmachray #anglicanchurchofcanada #anglican #bookofcommonprayer #bookofcommonprayer2019

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Mar 9

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“God’s time is always near. He set the North Star in the heavens; He gave me the strength in my limbs, He meant that I should be free.” - Harriet Tubman (c. 1822-1913), Prophetic Witness

Harriet Tubman was born a slave in Maryland and from an early age was subjected to regular, cruel beatings and whippings from slaveholders. As a teenager, she began receiving visions and strange dreams. She attributed these revelations to God, believing that she was being raised up by God as a liberator of His people. Sustained by her faith, she escaped slavery and fled to Canada at age 24. She then made 19 heroic trips back to Maryland, personally smuggling over 70 slaves to freedom (some accounts estimate as many as 300 slaves were liberated). Tubman smuggled so many to freedom, abolitionists called her the “conductor of the Underground Railroad.” During the Civil War, she served as a nurse, scout, spy, and military leader, liberating over 700 slaves. In her later years, she became an advocate for the rights and dignity of women and the elderly and devotedly supported the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church.

Almighty and everlasting God, you kindled the flame of your love in the heart of your servant Harriet Tubman to manifest your compassion and mercy to the poor and the persecuted: Grant to us, your humble servants, a like faith and power of love, that we who give thanks for her righteous zeal may profit by her example; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Prints available via www.ourchurchspeaks.com.

#churchhistory #ourchurchspeaks #harriettubman #tubman #americanhistory #slavery #abolitionist #amezion #africanmethodistepiscopalzion #bookofcommonprayer

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Mar 8

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Like a good farmer, [Felix] reaped a rich harvest of believers.” - Venerable Bede describing Felix (?-647), Bishop & Missionary to the Angles

Felix was a leader in a monastery in the Frankish kingdom of Burgundy (modern-day France). While serving at his monastery, he was visited by the exiled king Sigebert, from the pagan kingdom of East Anglia. Sigebert had fled from political conspiracy against his throne and sought refuge at Felix’s monastery. Through Felix’s friendship and care, Sigebert converted to Christianity. The king asked Felix to return home with him, to retake his throne and free his people from “longstanding evil and unhappiness” through the good news of Christ. Felix was made a bishop by the Archbishop of Canterbury and, with the support of King Sigebert, spent the remainder of his life ministering in East Anglia. He converted thousands, established churches and monasteries, and labored to improve the education of the region. A boys school founded by Felix became the ancestor of Cambridge University. Felix is regarded by many as the forefather of Cambridge University and the apostle to the Angles.

Almighty and everlasting God, you called your servant Felix to preach the Gospel to the Angles: Raise up in this and every land evangelists and heralds of your kingdom, that your Church may proclaim the unsearchable riches of our Savior Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Prints available via link in bio.

#saintfelixofburgundy #cambridgeuniversity #cambridge #eastanglia #saintsigebert #monastic #catholic #orthodox #anglican #bookofcommonprayer #bookofcommonprayer2019 #englishhistory

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Mar 7

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“I cannot be called by any other name than what I am - A Christian.” - Perpetua (181-203), “Jesus will suffer for me… I will be suffering for Him.” - Felicity (?-203), Martyrs

Perpetua was a noblewoman in the Roman province of Africa (now known as ‘Tunisia’). At 22 she was a nursing mother, preparing for baptism. She was arrested, along with an enslaved, pregnant woman named Felicity. Both women, of different social ranks and societal influence, were imprisoned in the same cell for the same reason - they were Christians and refused to deny Christ. Perpetua wrote in her diary during her imprisonment, recording the physical and emotional agonies of separation from her baby. Felicity gave birth while in prison. Perpetua, Felicity, and four other Christians, were condemned to die in the arena, as entertainment for the birthday celebration of the Emperor. Before her death, Perpetua received a vision, confirming that through the Lord she would be victorious over Satan. The two women were killed by gladiators and wild animals in an African amphitheater. In the midst of their cruel death, the women gave each other the kiss of peace before being put to the sword. Perpetua’s diary account was widely circulated with the title “The Passion of Saints of Perpetua and Felicity.” This document is one of the oldest known surviving pieces of Christian literature written by a woman, and attests to the power of God, granting courage, unity, and confidence to early Christians as they faced unspeakable agonies.

Prints available via link in bio.

Almighty God, you gave your servants Perpetua and Felicity boldness to confess the Name of our Savior Jesus Christ before the rulers of this world, and courage to die for this faith: Grant that we may always be ready to give a reason for the hope that is in us, and to suffer gladly for the sake of our Lord Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

#churchhistory #africanchristianity#ourchurchspeaks #benlansingcreative #earlychurch#anglicanartist #anglican #catholic #orthodox #churchmothers #earlymartyrs #saintperpetua #saintfelicity #perpetuaandfelicity #internationalwomensday

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Mar 3

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“Give me 100 preachers who fear nothing but sin and desire nothing but God. Such alone will shake the gates of hell.” - John Wesley, Priest & Reformer of the Church // “Amazing love how can it be! That Thou my God should die for me.” - Charles Wesley, Priest & Reformer of the Church

John and Charles Wesley were the sons of an Anglican priest and a Puritan mother. After encountering the sincere devotion of German pietists and after experiencing a Holy Spirit-driven awakening, the Wesley brothers were inspired to begin a reform movement within the Church of England, committed to a methodical lifestyle of prayer, Scripture, and the pursuit of holiness. With John’s oratory skill and Charles’ hymn-writing gifts, the two brothers were at the heart of the first Great Awakening, a movement that transformed society in England and North America. John traveled 250,000 miles on horseback, preaching the Gospel to as many as would hear him. Despite attempted suppression from Church of England bishops (who, at the time, were suspicious of religious “enthusiasm”) the Wesleys’ “Methodist” movement grew to over 100,000 members in their lifetime. The Wesleys hoped that this Methodist movement would be a reforming movement within the Church of England and remained Anglican ministers to their deaths. Methodism became a denomination in its own right, with its first bishops, Francis Asbury and Thomas Coke, continuing the Wesley’s vision into a new century. Today, Methodism has grown to 50 million members worldwide.

O God, by your grace your servants John and Charles Wesley, kindled by the flame of your love, became burning and shining lights in your Church, turning pride into humility and error into truth: Grant that we may be set aflame with the same spirit of love and discipline, and walk before you as children of light; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

#johnwesley #charleswesley #reformers #ourchurchspeaks #churchhistory #benlansingcreative #anglican #methodist #greatawakening #amazinglove #revival #revivals #revivalism #asbury #asburyrevival #thomascoke #methodism #hymnwriter

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Mar 2

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“I have never thought myself worthy of [consecration as bishop]. Although unworthy, I accept it solely under obedience.” - Chad (c. 620-672), Bishop of Lichfield, Missionary

Chad was one of four brothers who studied under Aidan at the Celtic monastery of Lindisfarne. He succeeded his brother Cedd as abbot of Lastingham and was made a bishop, known for his gentleness and humility demonstrated during a difficult period of cultural upheaval. During Chad’s ministry, representatives from the Church of Rome encouraged Celtic Christians to abandon ancient, Celtic practices in favor of Roman customs. At the Synod of Whitby (664), Celtic Christians agreed to adopt Roman practices, for the sake of Christian unity. Soon, Roman clergy began challenging the validity of Celtic consecrations. When Chad’s consecration was challenged, he acknowledged that he was not worthy of his office, and would step down if ordered by the church. Because of his humility, he was allowed to continue as bishop, with the agreement that he complete his consecration according to the Roman rite. He devoted much effort to missionary work among the Mercians and died of the plague in 672.

O God, our heavenly Father, you raised up your faithful servant Chad to be a Bishop and pastor in your Church and to feed your flock: Give abundantly to all pastors the gifts of your Holy Spirit, that they may minister in your household as true servants of Christ and stewards of your divine mysteries; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

#ourchurchspeaks #churchofengland #anglican #saintchad #saintcedd #saintaidan #lindisfarne #bookofcommonprayer #chad

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Feb 28

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“If Christ is for us, who is against us? Be strong, therefore, in a war which may be won, lest your enemy rejoice in your flight.” - David (“Dewi,” c. 510-601), Bishop of Menevia; Apostle of Wales

David was a monk, teacher, theologian, and preacher in the early Celtic church. A century before David, an English theologian named Pelagius rejected the concept of original sin and taught that humans could attain sinless perfection through their free will and effort. This belief (“Pelagianism”) spread across England and into Europe, Africa, and Asia. Theologians across the Christian world condemned Pelagius’ teaching as heresy, but even a century after Pelgaius’ lifetime, his heresy remained a force that troubled Celtic Christians. David attended a Synod in Brefi, Wales and spoke eloquently against Pelagianism. His defense of the Gospel and the all-sufficient righteousness of Christ earned him such respect that he was made bishop. He became known as a gentle benefactor of the poor and sick. He founded over a dozen monastic communities, centered around a rule of life inspired by African asceticism. David also oversaw restoration and expansion of Glastonbury Abbey, which was ancient even in David’s time. David’s final words from his deathbed were, “brothers and sisters, be joyful, and keep your faith and your creed, and do the little things that you have seen me do.”

Almighty and everlasting God, you called your servant David to preach the Gospel to the Welsh people: Raise up in this and every land evangelists and heralds of your kingdom, that your Church may proclaim the unsearchable riches of our Savior Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

#ourchurchspeaks #churchhistory #saintdavid #saintdewi #bookofcommonprayer #bookofcommonprayer2019 #pelagianism #pelagius #celticchristianity #anglican #romancatholic #orthodox

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Feb 28

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"It is useless to boast of our fasting, vigils, poverty, and reading of Scripture when we have not achieved love for God and our fellow men." - John Cassian (360-435), Monk & Teacher of the Faith

John Cassian was born near the Black Sea, just across the Danube from the region now called 'Ukraine.' Cassian lived in an increasingly chaotic world and journeyed to Egypt to study and record the practices of the African Desert Fathers and Mothers. He later founded a form of African-style monasticism in Gaul, now modern-day France. He is credited with introducing monasticism to Western Europe. The spiritual disciplines of prayer and fasting, and above all, the gift of God's love, are as relevant today as they were in Cassian's day. We love only because God first loved us. Pray for Ukraine. Pray for Syria and Turkey. Pray for God's kingdom to come.

O God, your blessed Son became poor for our sake, and chose the Cross over the kingdoms of this world: Deliver us from an inordinate love of worldly things, that we, inspired by the devotion of your servant John Cassian, may seek you with singleness of heart, behold your glory by faith, and attain to the riches of your everlasting kingdom, where we shall be united with our Savior Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Prints available via link in bio

#ourchurchspeaks #benlansingcreative#prayforukraine #orthodox #catholic #monasticism#desertfathers #desertfather #desertfathersandmothers#johncassian #churchhistory #monasticism #monastic #monk#teacherofthefaith #fasting #vigils #poverty #scripture #lent#earlychurch #patristics #africanchristianity

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Feb 27

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"The God of love my Shepherd is, and He that doth me feed: while He is mine, and I am His, what can I want or need?" - George Herbert (1593-1633), Priest & Poet

George Herbert was born into an affluent family in England, in the later years of the reign of Elizabeth I. Herbert entered Trinity College, Cambridge and became the University’s Public Orator. This position launched Herbert into an aspiring political career. He became a member of parliament and earned favor from King James I. But Herbert’s true aspirations became apparent when, in his mid-30’s, he turned away from the political sphere and associated instead with Nicholas Ferrar’s Little Gidding Community. Little Gidding was an Anglican community with devout adherence to the quiet, daily rhythms of Christian worship in the Book of Common Prayer. Herbert entered the priesthood and devoted himself to administering the sacraments and feeding and clothing the poor. Herbert gave all of his strength to his parishioners, his family, and his neighbors and died of consumption, just a few weeks shy of his 40th birthday. Before his death, Herbert entrusted a book with Ferrar, asking to have it published if it might help a “poor, dejected soul,” but otherwise to burn it. The book contained a wealth of religious poetry by Herbert, written in private devotion. It expressed an outpouring of love for Herbert’s congregants, his family, for the poor, for the sacramental life of the church, and for his Lord and Savior. Herbert is now considered one of the greatest poets of the English language. His writings remain an important part of the devotional life of Anglicans, Roman Catholics, and other Christians to this day.

O God, our heavenly Father, you raised up your faithful servant George Herbert to be a pastor in your Church and to feed your flock: Give abundantly to all pastors the gifts of your Holy Spirit, that they may minister in your household as true servants of Christ and stewards of your divine mysteries; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen. #ourchurchspeaks #georgeherbert #poetry #poet #bookofcommonprayer

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Feb 24

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“A witness to the resurrection… he was numbered with the eleven apostles.” - Acts 1:21,26, Matthias the Apostle (?-c.80)

Matthias was a disciple of Jesus through the entirety of the Lord’s earthly ministry, from the time of Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan river. He served Jesus through the Lord’s teachings and miracles, the selection of the first twelve Apostles, the crucifixion of Christ, the resurrection and ascension. All the while, Matthias operated in the background, never mentioned by name by any of the Gospels. The book of Acts records that after Jesus’ ascension, the Apostles were inspired by Psalm 106 (“Let another take his office”) to seek a replacement for the deceased false Apostle, Judas Iscariot. The Apostle Peter recommended that two disciples be nominated who had served Jesus from the beginning. Matthias was nominated, along with a fellow disciple, Barsabbas. After praying and casting lots, Matthias was chosen as the successor to the office of the 12th Apostle. Nothing more is recorded about Matthias in Scripture. Ancient church traditions say that Matthias traveled widely, spreading the good news of Jesus in far off places like Ethiopia and the Caspian sea region. Another tradition says that he was stoned in Jerusalem and beheaded. For this reason, he is often depicted in art victoriously holding the ax that severed his head and reunited him with his Savior. Until 1970, Matthias’ feast day was observed in Western Christianity on February 24. Today, he is also commemorated on May 14 to better align with Ascension, Pentecost and other liturgical observances associated with Acts chapter 1.

Almighty God, who in the place of Judas chose your faithful servant Matthias to be numbered among the Twelve: Grant that your Church, being delivered from false apostles, may always be guided and governed by faithful and true pastors; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

#matthias #twelveapostles #apostolicsuccession #apostlematthias #ourchurchspeaks #bookofcommonprayer #bookofcommonprayer2019

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Feb 23

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“Eighty and six years have I served [Christ] and He has never abandoned me. How, then, can I abandon my King and my Savior?” - Polycarp (69-155), Bishop of Smyrna

Polycarp was a direct disciple of the Apostle John and the author of some of the earliest surviving Christian literature, outside of canonical Scripture. He served as the bishop of Smyrna and was a friend and correspondent of Ignatius of Antioch. As an old man, Polycarp was treasured by the church as a last, living link to the Apostles. At age 86, Roman authorities singled out Polycarp, demanding that he renounce Christ and worship the gods of the Empire. Bound to a stake, Polycarp boldly refused. “Eighty and six years have I served [Christ] and he has never abandoned me. How, then, can I abandon my King and my Savior?” He was martyred in an amphitheater in Smyrna and the account of his martyrdom circulated widely, giving Christians courage to live and die for Christ, in emulation of this beloved, final witness to the age of the Apostles.

Prints available via link in bio.

Almighty God, you gave your servant Polycarp boldness to confess the Name of our Savior Jesus Christ before the rulers of this world, and courage to die for this faith: Grant that we may always be ready to give a reason for the hope that is in us, and to suffer gladly for the sake of our Lord Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

#benlansingcreative#ourchurchspeaks #polycarp #polycarpofsmyrna#saintpolycarp #earlymartyrs #martyr #christianhistory#churchhistory

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Feb 22

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“God made me fast. And when I run, I feel His pleasure.” - Eric Liddell (1902-1945), Missionary

Eric Liddell was born to Scottish missionaries in Tianjin, China. He attended Eltham College in Scotland where he earned a reputation as the fastest runner in Scotland. He attended the 1924 Olympics in Paris but declined to run the 100 meter race, because it was held on a Sunday. He instead competed in the 400 meter race, where he won the gold medal and broke the world record. Soon after, he returned to China and devoted the rest of his life to serving as a teacher and a minister. Ignoring the British government’s evacuation orders, Liddell remained during the Japanese invasion of China in World War II. He served the poor during the most dangerous years of the invasion and was eventually arrested by Japanese Imperialists. Liddell died in a Japanese internment camp in 1945.

Almighty and everlasting God, you called your servant Eric Liddell to preach the Gospel to the Chinese people: Raise up in this and every land evangelists and heralds of your kingdom, that your Church may proclaim the unsearchable riches of our Savior Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

“Our Church Speaks” prints and calendars available at www.ourchurchspeaks.com.

#ericliddell #chariotsoffire #churchhistory #chinesemissions #chinesechristianity #olympicgames #ourchurchspeaks #reformed #reformedchristianity

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Feb 21

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"Being a Christian is more than just an instantaneous conversion. It is a daily process whereby you grow to be more and more like Jesus." - William "Billy" Graham (1918-2018), Evangelist

Billy Graham was the son of a farmer in rural North Carolina. As a teenager, he was deeply impacted at a revivalist meeting and committed himself to Christ. He became a Southern Baptist minister and evangelist. Graham’s earliest revival meetings were racially segregated, but in 1953 he began taking down barriers between his audience. "We have been proud and thought we were better than any other race,” said Graham to his white audience. “Ladies and gentlemen, we are going to stumble into hell because of our pride." Graham was an innovator, making the most of new technology. Through large stadiums, radio, television and (later in life) the internet, he delivered a sincere expression of the Gospel to millions around the globe. Graham became known as “America’s Pastor,” preaching through the turbulent years of the 1960’s social revolution, the Cold War, and post-9/11 America. “Each generation faces different issues and challenges,” said Graham. “but our standard must always be measured by God's Word.” He developed friendships with Martin Luther King, Jr., Queen Elizabeth II, Pope John Paul II, and held personal audiences with 12 consecutive presidents. Together with Anglican priest John Stott, Graham founded the world evangelization Lausanne Movement, with ecumenical members from over 150 nations. The resulting Lausanne Covenant (1974) is considered one of the most significant documents in modern church history. "We are deeply stirred by what God is doing in our day," the Covenant says. "moved to penitence by our failures and challenged by the unfinished task of evangelization."

Almighty and everlasting God, you called your servant Billy Graham to preach the Gospel: Raise up in this and every land evangelists and heralds of your kingdom, that your Church may proclaim the unsearchable riches of our Savior Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

#billygraham #baptist #ourchurchspeaks #bookofcommonprayer2019 #southernbaptist

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More about "Our Church Speaks"

"Our Church Speaks" is an illustration series focusing on people highlighted in the calendar of Holy Days and Commemorations found in the Book of Common Prayer (primarily those in the 2019 edition of the Book of Common Prayer, but also featuring those commemorated in the wider Anglican Communion).

Ben is a lifelong student of art and history and regularly teaches church history at Redeemer Anglican Church. The artwork in this series is used as class material in Ben's lectures. Ben studied history at the University of Richmond and has a Dimensions of the Faith certificate from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary.

Follow this project on Facebook and Instagram to view more entries in this series. Prints can be ordered here.