new church life: september/october 2016
(Page 444) In a sermon about the story of Balaam, Mr. Barber finds relevance
for today in “Considering Conscience.” (Page 451)
Bronwen Henry of General Church Outreach writes a rapturous review of
a new book by the Rev. Frank S. Rose: Growth Pains and Pleasures. The book is
all about Mr. Rose’s journey as a New Church minister striving to find the best
way to contribute to the growth of the Church. Bronwen says within this story
is an important message and rich meaning for each of us and she invites us to
reflect on our own path in the General Church in its light. (Page 457)
The Rev. Kurt P. Nemitz offers his thoughts on Prayer’s Role in the Salvation
of our Soul. He writes: “Prayer is of utmost importance, because it is what
makes it possible for God and His Divine qualities to come into our hearts
and minds. Prayer opens the door of our mind to His love and wisdom which
we so much need. Vital spiritual things do happen when we pray.” (Page 460)
The Rev. Willard L. D. Heinrichs presents a personal study on The
Character and Possible Uses of the Spiritual Diary/Spiritual Experiences. He
cautions that these are his own opinions, and invites dialogue. He feels there
are good reasons to conclude that these five volumes are Divine revelation. So
many times, he says, he has been led to the conclusion that what is advanced
in these books “is always in essential agreement with what is taught elsewhere
in the Heavenly Doctrine. I think that I hear the same underlying Divine and
heavenly melody.” (Page 468)
Church News, beginning on page 478, includes:
• New callings in the Kempton Society in Pennsylvania, with long-time
Vice Principal Mark Wyncoll moving over to the General Church as
head of Annual Giving, and Kempton alum Dale Smith being named the
new Vice Principal.
• The New Journey Program from General Church Outreach on the
meaningful test for communication: Is it true? Is it kind? Is it useful?
Co-author Sasha Silverman relates it with a story: Move the Cracker,
Offer the Wine: Finding a Gentler Approach to Conflict Resolution.
• A report – with photos – from the Rev. Todd Beiswenger on Camp
Wanawong in Australia. The lively program ranged from a game
of Russian Roulette – using eggs instead of bullets – to a doctrinal
discussion of the Book of Revelation.
• An enthusiastic report from student Jamie Reynolds on what a lifechanging experience it was for her to attend the annual British Academy
Summer School. (With photos)
• Changes and expectations for the new school year at both Bryn Athyn
College and the Academy Secondary Schools.
• A new video from New Church Education on Swedenborg’s childhood
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