The Liturgy of Peace: Reflections on Word and Song

 

Welcome

In a world fractured by division and hungry for healing, the Church is called to be a courageous leader in the sacred work of peace and reconciliation. This calling is not a political talking point or a niche ministry; it is a mandate woven into the very fabric of the Gospel. But how do we, as individuals and as a community, find the strength and guidance for this monumental task?

Welcome to "The Liturgy of Peace: Reflections on Word and Song." This blog is founded on the conviction that our weekly worship is the wellspring that equips us for the work of peacemaking. It is in the rhythm of the liturgy—in the hearing of the Word and the singing of our song—that we are challenged, nourished, and ultimately commissioned to be ambassadors of reconciliation in the world.

Each week, this blog will offer a reflection grounded in the Sunday scriptures, following the Revised Common Lectionary (Year C, Track Two). We will unpack the readings not as ancient history, but as a living Word that speaks directly to our modern condition, seeking the golden thread that connects themes of justice, forgiveness, and love for our neighbor to the challenging, real-world work of building bridges and healing divides.

But our worship is more than spoken word. A unique focus of this blog will be the powerful role music plays in our spiritual formation. We will explore how the hymns and anthems of our liturgy deepen the scriptural message, moving theology from our heads to our hearts. We will consider how a melody can become the prayer we carry with us through the week, giving us, as Hebrews says, the strength to "run with perseverance the race that is set before us."

The goal of "The Liturgy of Peace" is to connect the sacred hour of worship with the rest of our week. It is a companion for any who wish to see their Sunday experience not as an escape from the world, but as a commissioning for the world. Whether you are a layperson, clergy, a church musician, or simply a seeker longing for a more just and harmonious world, you are invited on this journey.

Join us each week as we explore how our ancient liturgy gives us a radical new vision for our lives and our world.