Pulpit To Pew

In this episode, Rev. Gibson & Johnny discuss the annual Christ Church Cathedral's Children's Christmas Pageant. The little shepherds, angels, bearded Joseph and Mary all did a wonderful job delivering the weekly Gospel this past weekend. In addition to the children's performance, three young parishioners shared their own Christmas Pageant moments and cherished memories with the congregation. This event is fun but also important to the growth of our Church family. Including all people, young and old, as active participants in the liturgy and weekly mass strengthens the connection to your faith and each other. Hearing Christmas story form Luke's gospel through the lens of children gives us a new perspective and can make us all recall those joyous times of our youth during the magical season of Christmas. To wrap up the show, Johnny manages to connect the new Star Wars film story and themes to the weekly lessons and the reflections of past and present Christmas Pageants. Merry Christmas from the Pulpit to

Modern day Christians tend to think of the Prophets as bearers of harsh warnings of present misbehavior and impending doom. Johnny always seems to draws them as frustrated, crazy, and wild-eyed characters with frazzled hair (e.g. Doc Brown from Back To The Future movies). This perception (and doodle) is not exactly accurate, in fact, the Prophets could be seen as the first "motivational speakers". Prophets, like modern day business gurus and Ted Talk internet superstars, inform and encourage their audiences to see the world different and to prepare for something that is coming. Which often, in the case of biblical witness, is the "Good News." Reverend Gibson examines the words and prophetic call of Isiah, Elijah, John The Baptist, and even 1960's AM radio broadcaster Earl Nightingale (considered to be the first motivational speaker) and how these "influencers" delivered messages of restoration and renewal to those longing for guidance and inspiration. Like the early Christians, we live in difficult times an

Reverend Gibson was inspired by a purpose statement from the poet and memoirist Mary Karr. Karr, the best-selling author who candidly shares the story of her life – from earthy Texas native, to teacher, to struggling addict, to eventually becoming fully alive – living a life of faith. Karr writes, “Having devoted the first half of my life to the dark, I feel obliged to revere any pinpoint of light now.” Her purpose statement sums up why people are drawn to her stories and gives us a connection to this week’s gospel lessons. This week’s lessons, being Jesus’ apocalyptic instructions and lessons to his disciples to patiently wait and stay awake in order to be vigilantly aware of finding the “light” in the darkness around them. Mary Karr’s re-telling of her earthly struggles and on-going redemption have inspired many fans and lifted them up emotionally and spiritually. This type of story-telling of our lives can be a powerful exercise in our own journey of faith. What stories do you have of God or someone else

Labeling and the cultural tendency of categorizing others narrowly and dismissively seems to have elevated to the level of entertainment, sport, and national pastime. Unfortunately, many (even those that are frequently labeled and marginalized) are drawn to this behavior that creates a barrier to understanding each other, our shared problems and the ability to work together to solve them. Labeling stifles the spirit of love and runs counter to the central Gospel imperative of the greatest commandment - to love God with all your heart and one another as you love yourself. In this episode, Rev. Beverly Gibson and Johnny Gwin discuss how labeling and a rigid mindset is at the center of Jesus' Parable of the Talents. How does this action become a barrier that keeps us from knowing the true nature of God, ourselves, and specifically those "others" that do not pass the litmus test of like-mindedness? The takeaway from this podcast is that daily, we should be engaging our God-given imagination and skills to create

It’s not news that we live a world of uncertainty, fear, and anxiety, but how can we improve our spiritual and mental lives in such uncertain and dangerous times and confidently carry ourselves forward? What guidance and wisdom can scripture and the teaching of Jesus provide us to prepare, handle and process the seemingly endless stream of bad news from media, culture and social media? In this episode, Rev. Beverly Gibson discusses the parable the lamp oil and the ten bridesmaids and how this lesson is directly related to dealing with impatience, fear, anxiety, and dealing with the unknown in today’s world. God wants us to be joyful, at peace and yes, resilient. Not just the ability to bounce back from hardship or a temporary set-back resilient but a courage filled and bold confidence to overcome fears and trauma. Many of us are seeking an on-going way of approaching life that we know will be filled with a seemingly endless series of challenges and problems. Maybe by wisely opening up to living a life of fa

What in the world does Netflix's suspenseful Stranger Things, have to do with All Saint's Day and it's biblical lessons? Rev. Beverly Gibson (Christ Church Cathedral) uses this wildly popular series plot of two seperate realms that are connecting and colliding as an analogy for understanding our spiritual realms of Earth and God's Heavenly Kingdom, and the unity of the living and the dead.   What you will hear: Are the two realms of Earth and God's Kingdom separate? How are they united? How do we leak more of God's Kingdom into our harsh reality? What role do the Beatitudes and Jesus' teachings play in this connection to this intertwining of these two worlds? What is mercy and how can it's energy bind us all closer to God and each other? Is there ever a quarrel between Man and God? Readings Revelation 7:9-171 John 3:1-3Matthew 5:1-12   Topics and discussions > Celebrating All Saints Day at Christ Church Cathedral > Unity of the living and the dead > The eternal presence of God for all people and all cr

Download  |  Subscribe (FREE) In this episode, Rev. Beverly Gibson and Johnny Gwin continue to discuss the issue of the nature (and confusion) of Jesus as both human and divine. Using Matthew's gospel of the account of the Pharisee's Lawyer trying to trap Jesus with the question of "What is the greatest commandment," Rev. Gibson reveals that there is more to the greatest commandments. Jesus answered "loving God with all your heart, soul and mind" is the greatest commandment but he also added a second part to his answer, the "Golden Rule." Loving your neighbor as yourself is the coat hanger in which all the rules and laws of God is shaped and formed. Is understanding the letter and the spirit of the "Golden Rule" the lynchpin that connects all the lessons, laws, and ideas in Christianity? What would the world be like if more of us asked the question "Am I being loving" in all of our deeds and relationships? In our present cultural moment, we have gone beyond uncomfortable silence with discourse. We have been

Download |  Subscribe (FREE) This week Rev. Beverly Gibson and Johnny Gwin look at the nature of allegiance. Most of us have heard and comprehended the meaning of "Render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar's," but what is our debt to God? The answer to this profound teaching, from the Gospel of Matthew, is found more in Jesus's unspoken parallel than what he said. What is God's image imprinted upon? God's image is upon "us." We are what is owed to our Heavenly Emperor. More specifically, giving our physical and spiritual presence to Him, ourselves and others is the true debt that is owed. Also discussed in this episode: > Jesus's handling of those that are conspiring against him > Jesus's rabbinical teaching method > Tithing > The human and divine nature of Jesus > God's greatest gift to the world and His followers. Pulpit To Pew wants to congratulate Christ Church Cathedral parishioner Carl Cunningham Jr. and the young men of the Kappa League of Mobile for earning their National Chapter of the Year Aw

Download  |  Subscribe to Show (FREE) In this our 50th episode of Pulpit To Pew, Rev. Beverly Gibson shares one of her memorable moments from her summer sabbatical and family trip to Europe. Rev. Gibson introduces us to the "Wonder Worker of Britain," Saint Cuthbert, the Bishop of Lindisfarne and patron saint of Northern England. A visit to Cuthbert's Shine is said to awaken our awareness of the Benedictine Monasticism that is a part of the Church of England heritage in the Episcopal Church. This Benedictine Monasticism core value - The Care of Persons - are in our Episcopal DNA. This Care of Persons is a guideline of how we are to treat all people: Harmony and unity Generosity to all Rejoicing in Christ in all things Putting on a garment of Christian righteousness St. Paul describes this Care of Persons core value in the Epistle lesson this week with his letters to the Philippians (Phil. 4:1-9). This high ideal and value are essential to our Church mission of stewardship. What is the lesson from the Go

Download | Subscribe Sometimes losing something can give us a much-needed reset and can present us with a refreshing gift. Hurricane Nate disrupted life and our normal Sunday Services this past weekend, so Rev. Gibson decided to try something different for this show. Instead of discussing the weekly lessons and sermon, Rev. Gibson shares a meditation with Johnny and you, the listener. Very often when we miss Sunday Service we feel that something is "just off." We hope this episode fills your spiritual gap and shows you a different perspective of missing Church. Covered Topics: > Hurricane Nate led to the cancellation of services at Christ Church Cathedral, Baptisms, Kappa League Breakfast > Predictions, even the best, is just that. A Prediction. > Tom McGhee, article on Hurricanes then and hurricane's now > The Pause that we take > The silent sun and moon and what they can teach us > Divine instructions from the heavens, the sun, and the moon > Anam Cara by John O'Donohue - witness every sunset and sunrise f

Download  |  Subscribe (Free) In this first show of season 3, Rev. Gibson and Johnny Gwin discuss the lessons from the Oct.1st readings and sermon that center on questioning authority, spiritual leadership, God's economy of grace, and claiming the infinite gifts that God bestows upon us all. And NO, one of those divine gifts (while considered an exceptional consumer product) does not include the Yeti Cooler that Rev. Gibson read about in a recent New York Times article. This NYT article focuses on the cult-like hype and love of the almighty Yeti Brand. Quoted is a Ms. Tannehill (Augusta, Ga.) describing this $300 product as practically a divine gift, “God dropped the Yeti down: ‘Here you go, South, it’s hot, I see you’re struggling.” Plus, the reporter Steven Kurutz retells the story of this summer's Great Yeti Heist of the Springhill Ace Hardware Store. Covered Topics: > Understanding and questioning authority > The Economy of Grace vs. The Economy of Merit > The Open Enrollment of God Economy of Grace > G

Download | Subscribe (Free) In this episode, Rev. Gibson discusses the theme of Bishop Russell Kendrick’s “What goes on in there?” and the mission statement of his “generosity” sermon. The conversation then leads us to relook at the lesson of the Good Shepherd and sparks us see this representation of Jesus in a whole new way. From discussing the occupational function to the spiritual significance of the “Good Shepherd”, we see how a great leader teaches, protects, and sacrifices for their flock. Johnny Gwin specifically inquires about the “I am the gate” metaphoric and beautiful language of the Gospel of John. And we touch on who and what are the thieves and bandits mentioned in the lesson. And of course, a recap of the long awaited Steeple Dedication of the Christ Church Cathedral celebration is covered from spire to foundation. What you will here: > Planning and logistic details of putting on the Christ Church Cathedral Annual Celebration > The outstanding work of Carl Cunningham and his very successful g

Download | Subscribe | Support Show In this episode, Rev. Beverly Gibson and Johnny Gwin discuss the themes and lessons from the story of Doubting Thomas. Thomas needed to see the hands and pierced side of Jesus to believe he had risen. Did he not have enough faith? When in our life are we like Thomas, needed empirical evidence over our faith? Like the Disciples, we can cloister and hide in a room or our beliefs not letting new ideas and unexpected outcomes to enter into our reality. We can create our own prisons within our rigid belief systems, delusions of control and our inflated sense of self-worth. Jesus, in his resurrection, defeated death and unlocked the doors of our fears. Jesus has shown us that life is about living - not death, belief without proof, and to be open to the possibility of the letting the unknown into your world. Our big takeaway this week: joy is in your life, here and now, not just in Heaven.  What You Will Here: > Rev. Gibson's crazy week with the Christ Church Cathedral Steeple r

Download | Subscribe | Support Show In this Easter episode, the theme of not "holding on" to the image of our childhood Jesus, or the one we think we know. How would our life and faith be enriched by committing to seeing Jesus, and our Church, anew? Rev. Gibson discusses the importance of this difficult act and how it can give us insight and freedom. Can we take the faith, belief, and orthodoxy that we are comfortable with and be open to diving further into exploring the infinite dimension of the teaching and example of the Risen Christ? Johnny embraces Rev. Gibson's sermon message of "letting go" and "living the life of what your reading" by relinquishing his weekly stringent podcast editing process and allowing (painfully) a "practically unedited" episode to go out into the world. Hopefully, the show is up to snuff and he, and you the listening audience, can take something to grow and learn from this unorthodox Easter message. What You Will Hear: > Our 45th episode, we are getting close to the podcastica

Download | Subscribe (FREE) In this episode, Rev. Gibson and Johnny Gwin discuss the story and lessons in the Palm Sunday Gospel. Through the dramatic reading of the physical and existential journey of Jesus, and exploring the Way of The Cross, Beverly lays out a roadmap to lead us through the coming week of Holy Week. We walk with Jesus from being welcomed by Jerusalem as a hero, to him self-emptying emotion and power, to his brutal death on the Cross. Do we look at the real self-sacrifice, shame, and suffering Jesus endured for us? What things in life do we do to betray Jesus? When are we like Judas? Like Peter? Do we show up for God using our gifts, talents, and resources to help Christ and our whole community? The Church needs to be seen as a place for you to give back (sacrifice) to your community not a "what's in it for me" mindset. During Holy Week and Easter, try to see Christ in the challenges, frustrating and ugly things in life? Could you see Christ in dealing with the most difficult people in y

Download | Subscribe In this episode and continuing our Lenten Journey out of the wilderness, Rev. Beverly Gibson discusses "breathing new life" into the lifeless and the hope for the everlasting life that defeats death. To raise Lazarus Jesus relied and call on his Father to perform this miracle. How do we respond to Jesus' example of such confident dependence on God? It can give us the power of hope in adversity.   What you will hear: > Mardi Gras makes Lent an active season in Mobile, Alabama > Journey ramping up to Palm Sunday and Easter > The finer points of summering in Point Clear and Manhattan > Ezekial - Valley of the dry bones discussion, commentary, and insights > Bones: Isreal is dry in spirit and hope > Ezekial is told to call on the "breath" and "wind" to fill the bones and animates the bones with God's Spirit > Is the Valley Of The Dry Bones an example of a priestly call? > Prayer in Mass to animate the Eucharist in turn to feed and animate us in God's Spirit > Rev. Gibson's reason and virtue

Download | Subscription (FREE) In this episode, Rev. Gibson and Johnny Gwin explore how the endeavor of self-discovery is transformed when we realize the grounding of our identity in God. Illustrated in the lessons of the blind man (from birth) being healed by Jesus and Samuel's anointing of a young King David, the subject of their and our spiritual transformation is addressed. This spiritual and physical formation to the person God wants us to be starts with our baptism. In our baptism, a complete rebirth, we are given all the faith from God we will ever need. However, there is a catch, to be truly transformed it's our duty to draw it out, mature it, develop it.  Are you taking responsibility for your Christian formation? Are you assisting others on their journeys of self-discovery and complete formation? Are we capable of seeing our path and the way to properly worship and honor God? Or, are we blind to his truth, gifts, and possibilities?   What You Will Hear: > Learners not the learned will inherit the

Download | Subscription (FREE) In this episode, Rev. Gibson and Johnny Gwin discuss the themes of meeting God and Living Water. What would it be like to meet Jesus? What would you say? Would you know who he was? Jesus's interaction with the Samarian women at Jacob's Well and his meeting with Nicodemus shows us a very "human" and intimate conversation with the people around him. Jesus seems to be an excellent listener and a teacher in these gospel stories from John. What could we learn about life and ourselves from such a personal conversation with Jesus? Moses and his Israelites are also discussed, and we are reminded of the "human nature" to not only turn on each other but God when things look bad and not going our way? Beverly illustrates how Moses shows us (in Exodus) that God is always among us and he provides when we are in need. Is our faith and spirit strong enough to see God when we think he has abandoned us? Hear Johnny actually describe the show summary accurately this week, and he manages to sne

  Download | Subscription (FREE) In this episode, Rev. Gibson shares her Leadership Alabama experiences from her trip thru Huntsville, Alabama. Huntsville's history is a story of rebirth when economic outlooks looked bleak and it's people are well-known for their spirit of perseverance, evolution even when their future was unknown. From the NASA space program, to new biotech companies, to new emerging technology industries, this city is a great example of building something important by conversion and transformation. Faith can be defined as belief plus action and Huntsville must have it by the rocket payload to make lemons out of lemonade at every turn. Most cities, and especially people, lack the ability and faith to be able to pivot or blindly change everything when the signs indicate a change is needed for a positive outome. Abram was 75 years old when God gave him a calling to move to a new part of the world and build a new Kingdom. He left without questioning the decison. Nicodemus, a Pharisee and reli

Download | Subscribe (Free) In this episode, Rev. Gibson and Johnny Gwin continue discussing Jesus's beautiful, self-giving and sacrificial lessons of the Sermon on the Mount. "Love your enemy" and "pray for those that persecute you" are not only hard things to do but seems to be in direct opposition to the Old Testament "eye for an eye" rule of retribution. Jesus not only taught these new revisions of what God expects from us; he lived them. He forgave his persecutors and was actually "polite" with his killers until his final mortal breath. Christ's "perfection" and holy actions are an extreme example of his guiding light to navigate us today in such a polarized world of angry words, hurtful insults and bad actors. In the last half of the show, Rev. Gibson parallels Rachel Cusk's New Yorker Magazine essay "Age of Rudeness" with this week's lessons and readings.  Ms.Cusk she shares some real-world experiences and observations of a "rude" world and frames the question: "As the social contract frays, what doe