An article about Reformation Day appeared in the October 6, 2006
issue of “The Vision” (The Newspaper of the New York Conference of the
United Methodist Church). In it were mentioned some interesting facts
about Reformation Day with suggestions about its observance.
According to the article, the Reformers – Martin Luther and John and
Charles Wesley – did not want to create new denominations. The writer
goes on to suggest hymns and excerpts of a public prayer of confession
by Pope John Paul II which could be used in a service.
This prayer excerpt caught my attention because it speaks of praying
for people who have been “humiliated and marginalized” and facilitating
“the way to reconciliation and communion among all Christians.” Reading
these words brought to mind the way sensitive people, who have sought
comfort in their loss of a companion animal or have asked for prayer for
other animals, have been hurt and humiliated by pastors of churches.
Many have withdrawn from these churches.
I also thought of how John Wesley, whom Methodists regard as their
founder, was a vegetarian and truly cared about other animals. It is sad
to see churches and organizations lose the ideals of their founders.
Please read Frank’s Reformation Day sermon:
http://www.all-creatures.org/sermons97/s31oct93.html
