Steven Charleston is an Episcopal bishop and a member of the Choctaw Native American Tribe. His religious practices are a blend of his Christian faith and Native American spirituality.
Reverend Charleston practices what’s been called “laying on of hands.” He’s also an environmental activist.
He has invited all people to join him in a healing ceremony for our Mother Earth. In the ceremony, as he lays his hands on the earth, he says “Thank you, Mother, for all you have given us.… Read more
During 2016, we will occasionally feature the peace prayers of the 12 classical world religions, and several other prominent peace prayers. Today’s post is the fifth of this series.
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In 2016 I believe we will see peace on earth, or at least more meaningful movement toward it. But when we look at our world, especially as reflected in the mainstream news media, peace on earth might seem like an impossible dream.
I’ve chased impossible dreams all my life.… Read more
As a Roman Catholic student long ago, I studied theology for eight years—that is, the theology of the Roman Catholic Church. We were never taught anything about other religions—or that they were as legitimate as the Roman Catholic Church.… Read more
One of my all-time favorite movies is “A Christmas Carol,” based on Charles Dickens’ novel of the same name.
As you probably recall, in the book and movie Scrooge showed his disgust for Christmas with the words “Bah, humbug!” He believed Christmas was just an excuse to spend money you didn’t have and to waste precious time in revelry and fun. Certainly a cynical view of what is for many is a joyful celebration, and a time for putting aside our differences and being just a bit kinder to our fellow humans—and to all creatures.… Read more
Just a few weeks ago, on Sunday, May 27, Mack Wolford, a Pentecostal minister in West Virginia, was conducting a Sunday service for the members of his congregation. That was his last day on this earth.
Pastor Wolford, a colorful and legendary character, believed Christians should handle poisonous snakes to test their faith in God. He further believed if he was bitten God would heal him. This was a regular part of his congregation’s religious services.
Wolford had no fear of poisonous snakes, and he’d handled them many times before.… Read more
