Glendale Church of the Brethren

A Early Christian  Meal as depicted catacomb of San Callisto (Saint Calixte Catacomb - 3rd century art).

The National Public Radio program “Speaking of Faith” is being underwritten by the Glendale Church of the Brethren.  The show is broadcast each Sunday at 4pm on 89.3 KPCC Southern California Public Radio.  The following is Pastor John’s reflection on the latest show which can found at http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/

A frequent church tradition in the Midwest is for the community of faith to provide a meal after a funeral.  Often, loved ones and friends will travel great distances to attend a funeral.  This might be the only chance they have to connect with one another for years to come - if ever.  Christians of the church will gladly cook and serve a meal so that everyone can gather together, see each other, and hopefully give and receive comfort.

Sounds of laughter during the meal is a frequent occurrence as stories are told and retold.  In fact, one of my seminary professors stated that this was how he knew the funeral had been a good one - if the people could find joy even in the midst of their loss.  Hearing that laughter, always reminded me of the resurrection, for while believers mourn like everyone else - we have hope of new life!

Today, it is hard for Christians of the political left and right to sit down together for a common meal.  In early Christianity this meals was called the agape meal or the “love feast.”  It saddens me that we have allowed political agendas to take us away from this ancient Christian tradition and I am certain we are the poorer for it.  For when we refuse to share a common table with another believer in Jesus Christ because of political views -we miss out on a lot of love, laughter, and healing.

Peace,

Pastor John