I am a teacher... I believe strongly in education as a means out of poverty and as a force for change in the world. Education is a big component of social justice for me.
I also believe that education is an important component of faith and religion...I do not think that faith is meant to be unexamined. It should be something that one is willing to take a good deep dive into and learn about (and from).
And so begins this year's Lenten journey for me-- the goal of learning something about my faith each day. A friend thought it would be a good idea to tweet out finds, because "you are a tech teacher--it just makes sense"... so I am. This has turned out to be a good thing... friends are now sending me books and Catholic magazines!
Welcome to Brothers and Sisters, the weekly meetup for prayer* and community at Daily Kos. We put an asterisk on pray* to acknowledge that not everyone uses conventional religious language, but may want to share joys and concerns, or simply take solace in a meditative atmosphere. Anyone who comes in the spirit of mutual respect, warmth and healing is welcome.
More of my learning below...
I find that interesting, given the Church's insistence that women may not serve as ordained ministers... not that many of us aren't ministering in some of the ways that matter most.
So, not redemption in a "clear your card, you are free to start over" kind of way, but redemption as in because I can be forgiven, I have to share that gift.
I teach because I love... knowledge, children, math, the love I find in my family and in my faith community.
Because the Franciscans put faith into action (into REAL life), I have always loved them... even when I wasn't Christian. Faith is something we do-- it isn't all philosopical.
I kinda knew this one already... but hadn't really looked at the definition.
(I also really like the movie from 1999...Jay and Silent Bob rock!)
Lots of people focus on what they are giving up for Lent... I personally think it's about what we are giving back to the world.
Makes sense...
I had never really asked why purple for Lent...
These I had learned in the past but had forgotten.
I also think of it as a quick prayer...
This is the part of Christianity that I wish got more attention... especially from folks claiming to be Christians. There is no prosperity gospel in my reading of scripture... just lots of Jesus' reminding us to take care of each other.
I haven't posted my tweet for today... I'll add it as a comment when I do.