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  Editorials, Headlines, Sermons, Homilies, etc. 

When I was in High School (that statement surely dates me!), I had an English teacher who would bring in a stack of newspapers and challenge the class to write new headlines for the various news articles.

At the present time, I have a friend with whom I share the daily paper, and often, I correct a few of the headlines, using my “warped” sense of humour!               

On Tuesday morning, while out for my morning walk, I was thinking, “so what is the difference between an editorial and a headline in the newspaper?” Then I thought, “what is the difference between a sermon and homily?” (Sometimes I wonder where these thoughts come from?)

What prompted these thoughts on this day? (I have decided to leave the topic of ‘headlines and editorials’ to the journalists.)           

Futher to the topic of a sermon versus a homily, first we will turn to Wikipedia:

  • Sermon: A sermon is a religious discourse or oration by a preacher ,or other member of clergy.
  • Sermons address a scriptural, theological, or moral topic, usually expounding on a type of belief, law, or behavior, within both past and present contexts.
    Elements of the sermon often include exposition, exhortation, and practical application.
  • The act of delivering a sermon is called preaching. 
    In secular usage, the word sermon may refer, often disparagingly, to a lecture on morals.
     
  • Homily: A homily is a commentary that follows a reading of scripture, giving the "public explanation of a sacred doctrine" or text. The works of Origen and John Chrysostom (“Paschal Homily”) are considered exemplary forms of Christian homily.  

  • Note: Another source suggested a ‘Homily’ is the subject of the preacher, keeping in mind the needs of the listeners.  

The same day, I received a ‘Facebook’ announcement from my friend, and colleague, in Amsterdam.

He, along with a colleague, will be introducing an alternative worship experience to the existing English-language worship in their city.

The announcement read:

“I'm pleased to share that, in September, a colleague-priest, Revd. Mpho Tutu van Furth, and I, will begin a monthly English-language worship service in Amsterdam.
When we started talking about the need and the ethos, these are some of the words / phrases that came to mind:

robust liturgy; gender sensitive; inclusive;
'Cosmic Christ' (lately popularized by Richard Rohr, but not a new idea);
worship centered in the Eucharist; thoughtful, intelligent reflections; Biblical criticism; honesty, building and serving community; deepening faith maturity; Bible/ book studies; authentic, non-pretentious, joyful, humorous; a light touch but not shoddy….
In other words, an alternative to the existing English-language worship in this city.”

“We'll meet once a month for 10 months, and then discuss the way forward beyond that. We now have a basic website (it will be upgraded) and perhaps you know someone in Amsterdam who needs a new Christian community to journey with. www.allsaintsamsterdam.com”

My own thoughts went, “Wow! This is a tall order! But then, is this not what we all attempt in worship?”
(If you are a fan of Jack Knox, he is like a Homilist, sharing with the readers the needs of the listeners.)        

In my years of ministry, I trust I have been able to find the balance between the preacher (sermon) and the homilist.  

Blessings for you all this week,
Archdeacon Brian+