Title: Beyond the Boundaries: A Sacred Exploration (03/08/'24) < Statement to share

Title: Beyond the Boundaries: A Sacred Exploration In the quiet spaces between ancient words, in the whispers of pages not turned in the canonical light, there lies a richness—a tapestry woven from the threads of what was, what could have been, and what still might be. This journey, this sacred exploration, beckons us to venture beyond the boundaries of the texts that have been handed down to us, to embrace the full spectrum of our spiritual heritage. Here, in the realm of the excluded and the apocryphal, we find not just the echo of ancient voices, but a chorus of diverse perspectives, each offering a unique lens through which to view the divine. These are the stories untold, the wisdom unacknowledged, shadowed by the larger narratives that have shaped our faiths. Yet, they call to us, inviting us to discover the multifaceted truths hidden within their depths. It is in the acknowledging of these sidelined scriptures, in the understanding of their exclusion, that we begin to see the intricate dance of belief and power, of tradition and transformation. For our spiritual ancestors, as for us, faith was not a monolith but a mosaic, ever shifting, ever evolving to meet the needs of its bearers. This exploration is more than an academic pursuit; it is a journey of the heart, a quest for a more inclusive, adaptive faith that speaks to the challenges and opportunities of our time. It is an invitation to dialogue, to stretch across the divides of doctrine and dogma, to weave together the many threads of our spiritual heritage into a tapestry that reflects the richness of human experience. Let us then, with open hearts and minds, embark on this sacred exploration, drawing from the well of our collective wisdom to forge a path forward. In the rich tapestry of our faiths, may we find the strength to address the pressing issues of our time, the wisdom to guide our steps, and the compassion to bind us together in our common humanity. For beyond the boundaries of what is known, in the space between words, lies the promise of a more inclusive future, a vision of faith that embraces the full spectrum of our spiritual heritage. Together, let us journey beyond the edges of our maps, into the heart of the divine mystery, where all voices are heard, and all stories are sacred. With warmth and wonder, Pastor Steven G. Lee (March 8, 2024)