Why Study the Past by Rowan Williams

For many a good sermon has been determined by the quote of a well know theologian, or probably more importantly a prominent bishop. Archbishop Rowan Williams is very quotable in many respects, he is rather well read and this is reflected in his writings. However this volume, Why Study the Past (2005), is a book that many may over look, but shouldn't. Unfortunately for those who like to quote bishops, and in particular the Archbishop of Canterbury, there are few usable sermon quotations from Why Study the Past, but Williams does open doors to understanding the past and the Scriptures.

This book is definitely about the history of the Church - why we should study the past and effectively who we have become and why. Williams is critical of the assumptions and opinions made by certain historians and how this influenced their writings.

Why Study the Past is readable. It, like so many other books from an academic, is the product of a series of lectures delivered, meaning that it requires some concentration (a quick search at Wikipedia or Christian Classics Ethereal Library may serve helpful). The text ought to be consumed by those who week after week attempt to translate the early Church for this present day. As well, for anyone actively engaged in a Bible study group, in particular those leading such a study, the implications of this book should both challenge and encourage.

While both Chapters and Amazon list this book chapter one can be read online at Google Books.

Pentecost 9 - week of

After being away over the last four weeks we came back to a lawn that seriously needs cutting, and a garden in need of weeding.
On Saturday, July 12, there was an interment in the Parish of an individual who died in Ontario. The wish of the individual was to be interned with the family.
Saturday afternoon a couple were united in marriage at Holy Cross.
Sunday four services were held in the Parish.
Saint Alban's, Burnside, is a lively place at this time of the year with many returning for some time "home" for the summer. Stirred on by one individual the church was throughly cleaned and prepared for some fresh paint. Some of the brush approaching the church was also cut. Many hands were involved, women and men, young and those with much experience at these sorts of tasks.

May 1-3

April 30

Two visits were made during the day. As well preparations were made for the up coming high school graduation.

April 29

At the Bible Study with Bishop Eddie we worked through Colossians 4.2-6. He will be away for the next couple of weeks and will conclude the study of Colossians when he returns. Meanwhile we will look at some of the Psalms together on Tuesday mornings.
Two visits were made during the day.

April 28

This was a quiet day for the Rector at the Rectory - almost no phone calls, with a vestry meeting in the evening.

April 27 - Easter 6

Today I presided at three Eucharists in the Parish. First at Holy Cross with members of the Confirmation Class in attendance. In the afternoon we gathered at St Stephen's, and later at St Chad's for the Eucharist.
Bishop Eddie, the honorary assistant of the Parish, presided at the Church of the Resurrection. Norm Purchase, a Lay-Minister of the Parish, lead worship at St Alban's.
This was a full day of liturgy in the Parish with much to pray for.