Back in the 17th century, our ancestors risked a great deal to try to prove the point that God didn’t speak more or more clearly to educated clergy, that every person had equal access to Truth. In an age where church and state were the same, it was a dangerous idea. A radical idea. A revolutionary idea.
Some might say that a lot has changed since then.
I would argue that the 17th century concept of “educated clergy” is still alive and well, but has been internalized and manifests in different manners.
- Culturally, we give more potence to someone with letters behind their name, if they are wealthy, or speak in an educated manner.
- We relegate our gifts into one professional specialty that then becomes so strongly linked with our identity that we cease to experiment with other forms of expression.
- We as Quakers often present ourselves based on “Quaker credentials” (what committees we’ve clerked, where we have membership, etc).
Sing with Me!!!
One aspect of my musical ministry is improvisation. I love to make music in the moment, using whatever is available. I find that it allows for a kind of playfulness and communication amongst Friends that silent worship or verbal dialogue does not.
Continue reading “Stop Robbing Us of Your Gifts.”
