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Lori Rathert's avatar

My Catholic school experiences along with my children’s parochial school teachings 30 plus years later did not allow for seeing our bodies through the eyes of a loving God. What a shame, what a lost frame of mind that could have shaped us differently. May we all eventually be brought to this type of message after learning or seeking a more loving way that resonates deeply true in our bodies! Thank you Mark

Mark Longhurst's avatar

Thanks very much for sharing, Lori, and I appreciate your blessing!

Todd Weir's avatar

I've been thinking about how to do this better in worship. Getting more of our senses and body movement into church is as challenging as getting a new hymnal. It is hard to part with the familiar squares of bread, the pews, and head-oriented service. I think I may need to try sermon series on worship with all our body. A mindful beginning, something more interesting to taste and end with dancing.

Mark Longhurst's avatar

I love that you are thinking through this, Todd! Yes, so very challenging…

susan k ober's avatar

What a wonderful article. Helpful exploration of our bodies and the church. Thank you. I will commit to hugging trees. This is not the first time it's been suggested! It's grounding and i imagine if done barefotted eveun more powerful. I believe all of creation/nature is a love gesture from the divine and will heal us if we allow it. So needed...blessings 😘

Mark Longhurst's avatar

Thanks for reading, Susan, and glad it was helpful! Happy tree hugging 🙏