clash of cultures

last night derek was ordained priest. it was at an eden service. it was great to see eden in action. it's a youth congregation in sussex (where to be honest the churches seem pretty dead so it is a lifeline for many).

the place was packed with young people. the band had a great vibe. liturgy, band, interactive ritual and projections combined seamlessly. it did feel at times like a clash of two cultures - the old church and the new congregation. but at least the bishop has the sense/initiative to do the ordination at eden. in the ordination it was shocking when the priests were invited up to pray and they were all men - obviously not the most progressive diocese!...

it was a nice moment when there was an ancient litany with the bishop kneeling in front of a huge screen with images on, a sung response over a drum and bass track...

Comments

[Ian Mobsby]

Blimey this really is progressive. Which Bishop was it - very exciting. There are not that many emerging church 'clergy' so this is a significant development. Was he ordained NSM? or SM?

[Derek Spencer]

Ian, I hope jonny doesn't mind me writing on his behalf. Basically I was the guy that got ordained my name is Derek (check out my blog from jonny's link)- It was Bishop Lindsay of Horsham (West Sussex) who did the deed, and basically he's a forward thinking guy, who's very much into taking a few risks.

And just to add, I'e been in this job now for 3 years, and get a full stipend/house etc, the great thing about all of this is that this bishop really is setting the pace in actually ordaining me within my current work as a Deanery Youth Missioner - that means I get to stay in my job and out of the traditional 'church' mould...long may it continue!

[Ian Mobsby]

thanks Derek - as someone who is currently deaconed to do an emerging church project in London - unpaid and no accommodation - it is good to hear that other parts of the church are doing better. that is very progressive. I get priested in July - but nothing as forward thinking as what has happened for you. I look forward to having the same role as you.....some time...