Hello.

Did you watch the launch of the Collective Spirit? It is a boat made up of many wooden objects from the past and present. It is part of the Olympic celebrations, and inspires us all to make contributions to life, no matter how small they are.

It reminded me of that much maligned institution, the Church. Or, rather, it reminded me of what the Church could be. Instead of living like fragile fragments of faith, maybe we could be joined piece by piece to make something that could be wonderful. This is not some new thought.
 
The biblical writer, Paul, thought of it years ago. He said the church and its members were like pieces of a building that are fitted well together. They all had a part to play. The church was like a temple in which the Spirit of God would dwell.

Perhaps if Paul lived today, people would tell him to get real. Even as we approach the Christian festival of Pentecost, which is supposed to celebrate the unifying Spirit of God, Christians are clearly divided. People see the divisions and don't want to come on board. Instead of joining hands too many Christians turn away from each other.

I don't think it is too late. The ship that is Christianity has not already sailed.

It's time to transcend our differences and petty squabbles. Let the Spirit collect us into a vessel to re-launch the work of God.

Kind regards,
James.