In our recent homily series, our teaching team reflected on some of our painful and complicated experiences with hierarchical structures in churches. Many of us grew up in systems and structures that fostered patriarchy and celebrity culture. Even Vox has not been immune from the impact and weight of hierarchy. For the last few years, our leadership has been considering other […]
Stories tagged:
Non-Hierarchy
What is Collective Discernment?
How do we create a community of equals that resists becoming a cult of personality… that resists celebrity culture? Gena St. David wraps up our fall series on non-hierarchy by inviting us to recall the wisdom we’ve gained from each of our teaching team’s perspectives and practicing collective discernment by listening deeply to the Spirit, our bodies, and to on […]
Liturgy, Reflection, Benediction 2023.10.08
Liturgy God, you are welcome in this place.You have blessed us beyond measureby calling us out to be your peopleand to do the work of life together. May we welcome one another into your presenceand recognize what draws us together.As we look around and see the body of Christ,many members but all one people; all living,breathing, laughing, crying, mourningand celebrating […]
Dreaming in League with God
How do we exercise power effectively and holistically? Christopher Mack examines different organizational models and what characteristics might characterize a faith community moving beyond non-hierarchy. [Philippians 4:1-7] Reflection In a crisis, where do you tend to look for safety, control, or influence? How might you seek a “loyal companion” to help facilitate an impasse in your life? Is there a […]
Liturgy, Reflection, Benediction 2023.10.01
Liturgy Loving God, we are here to meet withyou and we are here to meet each other.You have made us for connection, not forself-control, self-determination, or self-fulfillment. Thank you, God, for time to be together.We come in on our own or with our closestones, and we enter in to something larger. Bind us to each other. Not just the one […]
Rethinking Priesthood
What hesitancies do you have when you consider yourself in relation to priesthood? Kimberly Culbertson explores how we are invited to be hope carriers, resource facilitators, and sacrificial relators as we live out a shared calling. [1 Peter 2:4-5, 9] Reflection How have you been called out of darkness into marvelous light? How has God wired you to be part […]
Liturgy, Reflection, Benediction 2023.9.24
Liturgy Friends and siblings,Welcome to this sacred place this morning.Let us pause for a moment to be still and breathe.[Take a moment for the congregation to take a breath] Today, when we are challenged,may we be receptive to the Spirit’s moving. When we are humbled,may we make room for God’s healing and grace. When we face difficult emotions and trying […]