Harrowing Of Hell

Category: Nativity

St. Mary the Prophet

Sermon | August 16, 2015

August 16, 2015, The Rev. Kate Wesch preaching

At first glance, this is a story about pregnant cousins happy to see one another or perhaps an older family member looking out for a teen mom who is being hidden away for a time. But when you start peeling back the layers and really examining the women, the nuance, this scene within the context of a much larger narrative, you get a strikingly different story. You see two strong women who greet one another in blessing and joy. You see two powerful prophets who will change the world. You see boldness and courage in their actions, not the shame and disgrace that so typically distort this passage.

Holy Monday 2015: Fear of Missing Out

Sermon | April 1, 2015

March 30, 2015, Elizabeth Walker preaching

In tonight’s Gospel, we hear about Mary and Martha welcoming Jesus into their home after Jesus raised their brother Lazarus from the dead. It is a celebratory gathering, as you might expect, in the wake of a family member’s resurrection from death. But, as would be expected in a Gospel that kicks off Holy Week, there is an element of gravity too; Judas questions the actions of Mary, who showed ultimate respect for Jesus by washing his feet—with her hair—using expensive perfume.