The Meeting Of Traditions: When Franciscan & Anabaptist Christianity Collide
The last few months have been quite full and exciting for me. First, my research into St. Francis and Franciscan spirituality has been deeply rewarding and challenging. I am increasingly drawn to this saint's example, his relevance and resonance with our day. He has become a significant touchstone for me in my understanding of Jesus.
The other major factor has been my exploration into Anabaptism in preparation for my role in our partnership with the Mennonite Church Manitoba to plant a new missional church in our community. As I study the Anabaptist history and theology, I recognize that so much of my convictions and ways of living already correspond with what I am discovering, which is encouraging. The further study has opened my heart, mind and life to new dimensions of what it means to be a Christ-follower.
As an interesting dynamic, these two influences- Franciscan & Anabaptist- have much in common with each other, complimenting their mutual strengths and prophetically challenging aspects of their different weaknesses. I have just begun to brush the surface, but both traditions are become deeply important to me. Considering this over the weekend, something dawned on me:
I am a Franabaptist.
I'm just kidding, of course, I like what you have to say here ... it was the ending sentence that made me giggle. (Comment this)
Peace,
Jamie (Comment this)
Those two books are the standard (in my opinion) for anabaptist beliefs. More controversial but very powerful is also "The Myth of A Christian Nation" by Greg Boyd. Might be worth a look see.
Well, enough of bogging you down with books. Talk to you later.
Peace. (Comment this)
Yeah, I like it too. I have Yoder's book (coming soon on my reading list), but not Camp's. I'll keep my eyes open for it. Thanks!
Peace,
Jamie
(Comment this)