New Church Life archives

2024 Issues

  • March/April 2024 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: The Joy of the Easter Season • Preference Falsification
    • Letters to the Editors
    • Jesus Wept: Seeing the Human Side of God – An Easter Sermon by the Rev. Barry C. Halterman
    • The Easter Season – The Rev. John L. Odhner
    • Trying to Entomb the Lord – A Children’s Easter Talk by the Rev. Grant H. Odhner
    • Wandering in the Wilderness – A Sermon by the Rev. Stephen D. Cole
    • From the Bishop’s Office: Helping People Find the Church: Our Efforts in General Church Outreach – The Rt. Rev. David H. Lindrooth
    • The Making of a Modern Visionary: A Biography of Emanuel Swedenborg - Introduction by Dr. Jane Williams-Hogan
    • Life Lines
    • Church News
    • Announcements
  • January/February 2024 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: Blessed are the Peacemakers • Swedenborg’s Wife
    • Rest for Your Soul – A Sermon by the Rt. Rev. Peter M. Buss Jr.
    • Preparing for Eternal Life: The Role of New Church Education - A Sermon by the Rev. James P. Cooper
    • From the Bishop’s Office: Entering the Stream of Providence - The Rt. Rev. Peter M. Buss Jr.
    • Resurrection Address for the Rev. Daniel W. Heinrichs - The Rt. Rev. Peter M. Buss Sr.
    • Living the Good Life: Seven Principles That Can Change the Way
    • We Live Our Lives – A book by the late Rev. Kurt H. Asplundh
    • The Making of a Modern Visionary: Emanuel Swedenborg, Eyewitness to the Apocalypse – Foreword to a Biography by the late Jane Williams-Hogan PhD
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
    • Announcements

2023 Issues

  • November/December 2023 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: Eternal Christmas • Swedenborg’s Christmas
    • Letters to the Editors
    • The Greatest Gift – A Christmas Sermon by the Rt. Rev. David H. Lindrooth
    • The Lord Came to Bring Us from Darkness to Light – A Christmas Sermon by the Rev. Eric H. Carswell
    • God’s Christmas Message to Elijah – The Rev. Todd J. Beiswenger
    • Behold Our Academy! – Charter Day Cathedral Address The Rev. Christopher A. Barber
    • Getting Wright, Spiritually – The Rev. Howard A. Thompson
    • From the Bishop’s Office: New Church Happenings in Brazil The Rt. Rev. Bradley D. Heinrichs
    • Life Lines
    • Church News
    • General Church Secretary Annual Report
    • Directory of the General Church Clergy
    • Announcements
    • Index for 2023
  • September/October 2023 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: Solace and Sanctuary • Arguments from Appearances
    • Letters to the Editors
    • ‘Look at the Birds of the Air’ – A Sermon by the Rev. Derek P. Elphick
    • Why Some Live Long and Some Not So Long – The Rev. Robert S. Jungé
    • A Nation Under God: Living into our Equality – Leah H. Rose
    • Sex in the Spiritual World: A Paper for the Council of the Clergy – The Rt. Rev. Brian W. Keith
    • From the Bishop’s Office: Smoke – The Rt. Rev. David H. Lindrooth
    • Choosing to Make Bryn Athyn College the Best that It Can Be – The Rev. Eric H. Carswell, President
    • The Most Important New Church Belief – The Rev. Erik J. Buss
    • General Church Education Conference: Reconnect and Rejuvenate – Rebekah Russell and Greg Henderson
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
    • Announcement
  • July/August 2023 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: Change and the Church • Free Speech and the First Amendment
    • Letter to the Editor
    • Resurrection for the Rev. Robert S. Jungé – The Rev. Lawson M. Smith
    • Can Science Help Those Who Doubt the Existence of God? – Don Ridgway
    • Our Relationship with God – or How to Comprehend the Infinite – A Sermon by the Rev. Michael D. Gladish
    • When the Righteous Cry Out: The Hope and Challenge of Psalm 34 – A Sermon by the Rev. Christopher A. Barber
    • From the Bishop’s Office: Messages from the Lord that Shift Our Perspective – The Rt. Rev. Peter M. Buss Jr.
    • Bryn Athyn College Commencement Address: The Power of Story – Susan David de Maine
    • Academy Secondary Schools Commencement Address: Resilience and ‘Failing Forward’ – John Thygeson
    • Euthanasia: Is there a New Church Answer? – The Rev. Todd J. Beiswenger
    • Declaration of Faith and Purpose – The Rev. Justin Schorran
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
    • Announcements
  • May/June 2023 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: Witness to the Revelation • The New Church is About Service
    • Letters to the Editors
    • Pilgrims in Israel: Feeling the Presence of the Lord – The Rev. Dr. Andrew M. T. Dibb
    • “There They Will See Me” – A Sermon by the Rev. Grant H. Odhner
    • To a Mountain in Galilee – The Rev. Grant H. Odhner
    • First and Second Coming: Would You Have Believed? – The Rev. Mark D. Pendleton
    • Praying and Sacrificing for the Church – The Rev. Calvin B. Heinrichs
    • Memorial Address: The Rev. Guillaume Anato – By the Rt. Rev. Bradley D. Heinrichs
    • From the Bishop’s Office: How Does Your Book of Life Read? – The Rt. Rev. Bradley D. Heinrichs
    • Education and Development of the Rational for Individuals and the Human Race – The Rev. Prescott A. Rogers
    • ‘Booting Up’ the Word – The Rev. Glenn ‘Mac’ Frazier
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
    • Announcements
  • March/April 2023 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: The Glory and the Power • The Theme of Betrayal in the Easter Story
    • Letters to the Editors
    • Palm Sunday: Jesus Wept for the People of Jerusalem – The Rev. Eric H. Carswell
    • 50 Years ago in New Church Life:
    • Putting Off and Putting On - An Easter Sermon by the Rt. Rev. Louis B. King
    • Stretch, Release, Breathe: How My Work Works on Me: Charter Day Theta Alpha Talk – Chara C. Daum
    • From the Bishop’s Office: Doomscrolling – The Rt. Rev. David H. Lindrooth
    • Finding the New Jerusalem: Part Three of the Story of Robert Hindmarsh Compiled by Marvin Clymer
    • A Harsh God? – Ned Uber
    • Bryn Athyn Cathedral Gardens – Terry Schnarr
    • A New Index to Spiritual Experiences – The Rt. Rev. Brian W. Keith
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
    • Announcements
  • January/February 2023 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials:
    • The Celestial Fire of Conscience • Five Thoughts About the Future
    • The Woman at the Well – A Sermon by the Rev. Scott I. Frazier
    • Hard Sayings: The Slow Growth of the Church – A Sermon by the Rev. Daniel Fitzpatrick
    • From the Bishop’s Office: Our Part: Living According to the Commandments – The Rt. Rev. Peter M. Buss Jr.
    • Our Traveling Bishops: Reports from the Rt. Revs. Peter Buss, Brad Heinrichs and David Lindrooth
    • Artfully Academic: A Profile of Bryn Athyn College – Dean Jonathan Kline
    • Marriage for Eternity? – A Paper by Bryn Athyn College Student Alisha Reid
    • Conjugial Love Study in the Academy Girls School – Kira Shadegg, Principal
    • As for Me and My House, We Will Serve the Lord – A new book by the Rt. Rev. Brad Heinrichs (Reviewed by the Rev. Dr. Ray Silverman and the Rev. Walter E. Orthwein)
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
    • Announcements

2022 Issues

  • November/December 2022 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: Gratitude • The Roots of New Church Schooling
    • Letters to the Editors
    • Charter Day Cathedral Address: Humility and Confidence - The Rev. Coleman S. Glenn
    • Led by the Holy Spirit – A Christmas Sermon by the Rt. Rev. Peter M. Buss Jr.
    • The Word Became Flesh – A Christmas Sermon by the Rt. Rev. David H. Lindrooth
    • From the Bishop’s Office: Repentance is Freeing and Joyful! - The Rt. Rev. Bradley D. Heinrichs
    • Finding the New Jerusalem: Robert Hindmarsh (Part 2), Compiled by Marvin Clymer
    • The Two Advents and Their Impact on the Human Race and Individuals - The Rev. Prescott A. Rogers
    • Life Lines
    • Church News
    • General Church Secretary Annual Report
    • Directory of the General Church Clergy
    • Announcements
    • Index for 2022
  • September/October 2022 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: Propaganda • Lost and Found
    • Letters to the Editors
    • Touched by the Lord – A Sermon by the Rev. Philip B. Schnarr
    • Jesus Sees the Future – A Sermon by the Rev. Lou Synnestvedt
    • General Church Council of the Clergy Meetings – The Rev. Glenn “Mac” Frazier
    • From the Bishop’s Office: What is Truth? – The Rt. Rev. David H. Lindrooth
    • In Search of Swedenborg: Pilgrimage Reflections
    • and the Power of Place – The Rev. Christopher A. Barber
    • Spirituality, Religion and Swedenborg – Dan A. Synnestvedt, PhD
    • Why We Worship – The Rev. Dr. Erik E. Sandstrom
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • July/August 2022 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: The Arc of Providence • The General Church and National Politics
    • Letters to the Editors
    • On Eagles’ Wings: A Sermon About the Lord’s Protection of the New Church - Rev. Jeremy F. Simons
    • Reading the Word – A Sermon by the Rt. Rev. Brian W. Keith
    • From the Bishop’s Office: The Rock That is Higher Than I – The Rt. Rev. Peter M. Buss Jr.
    • Bryn Athyn College Commencement Address: Prepare for Risks; Persistence and Course Changes; Your Values Are Your Best Tool – Charles M. Cole
    • Academy Secondary Schools Commencement Address: “Now It Is Permitted . . . “ – B. Erik Odhner
    • Walking in Someone Else’s Shoes: Fostering Empathy at Glencairn Museum
    • Abuse in Marriage: A Cry Out of the Silence – Susan C. Hill
    • Confessions of Faith
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • May/June 2022 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: Playing to the Crowd • Deliver Us from Evil
    • Responses to “Standing for Marriage in Today’s World” – A Message from the Rt. Rev. Peter M. Buss Jr., plus letters sent to New Church Life
    • A Pastor’s Message on Healing – The Rev. Derek P. Elphick
    • Letters to the Editors
    • The Value of the New Church and Its Teachings – The Rev. Mark D. Pendleton
    • Making Peace – A Sermon by the Rev. Dr. Andrew M. T. Dibb
    • “Choose for Yourselves This Day”: Reflections on Divine Love and Sensing Life as Our Own (Part II) – The Rev. Daniel W. Goodenough
    • From the Bishop’s Office: The Beautiful Vision of the Holy City New Jerusalem – The Rt. Rev. Bradley D. Heinrichs
    • A Demon in the Air – The Rev. Howard A. Thompson
    • Update on the New Church Teacher Competencies Program – R. Scott Daum
    • The New Church Career Network: Helping People Where it Matters – Aaliya Gunther
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • March/April 2022 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: The Hope of the Remnant • Signs of the Times
    • Letters to the Editors
    • The Centurion’s Confession – An Easter Sermon by the Rev. James P. Cooper
    • Listening with Humility – A Sermon by the Rev. Barry C. Halterman
    • “Choose for Yourselves This Day . . . ” Reflections on Divine Love and Sensing Life as Our Own (First of Two Parts) – The Rev. Daniel W. Goodenough
    • From the Bishop’s Office: Online Community Offered by the General Church – The Rt. Rev. David H. Lindrooth
    • Till Death Do Us Part vs. Forever – The Rev. Erik. J. Buss
    • The Trouble With the Old Testament – The Rev. Michael D. Gladish
    • What the Writings Say About Charity – (First in a Series) Craig W. Bostock
    • Whose Wife is She? The Lord’s Confrontation with the Sadducees – The Rev. William H. Clifford
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • January/February 2022 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: Change in the Mirror, Change in the Church • The Book That Made Heaven Rejoice
    • Letters to the Editors
    • From the Bishop’s Office: Standing for Marriage in Today’s World: A Church Perspective – The Rt. Rev. Peter M. Buss Jr.
    • Lead Us and Guide Us, Lord: The Gift of Inspiration – The Rev. John L. Odhner
    • Joy in the Journey – The Rev. Daniel Fitzpatrick
    • Divine Foresight: Miraculous and Wonderful – The Rev. Grant H. Odhner
    • Finding the New Jerusalem: Robert Hindmarsh – Compiled by Marvin B. Clymer
    • The Heavenly Doctrines and the Case For and Against Evolution – At the Same Time – The Rev. Prescott A. Rogers
    • Reflections on the Past Year: Return to Normal? – The Rev. Howard A. Thompson
    • Church News
    • Life Lines

2021 Issues

  • November/December 2021 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: Christmas Counterpoint • Alone for Christmas: Is there Really a “Loneliness Epidemic”?
    • Letters to the Editors
    • The Shepherd’s Way – A Christmas Sermon by the Rev. Philip B. Schnarr
    • Why it is So Important to Turn to the Lord as Both Human and God – A Christmas Season Sermon by the Rev. Eric H. Carswell
    • Creating True Spiritual Impact in a Troubled World – Charter Day Address by the Rt. Rev. David H. Lindrooth
    • Young Adults: Solving the Problem – th Rev. Jeffrey O. Smith
    • From the Bishop’s Office: Musings on Mercy and “Hard” Truths – the Rt. Rev. Bradley D. Heinrichs
    • Book Review: Prayer and Providence by the Rev. Michael D. Gladish – Reviewed by Kathy Simons
    • Book Review: Exploring the Path, Walking the Path by the Rev. Erik J. Buss – Reviewed by the Rev. Jeremy F. Simons
    • Redemption’s Wondrous Plan – the Rev. John Elliot
    • Two Baptisms, Two Babies, One Story – the Rev. Chuck Blair
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • September/October 2021 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: Our Guiding Vision • The Last Judgment and the Sexual Revolution
    • Letters to the Editors
    • Conjugial Love: A Most Precious Gem of the New Church – A Sermon by the Rt. Rev. David H. Lindrooth
    • What the Heavenly Doctrines Say About Sex and Gender – the Rev. Christopher A. Barber
    • From the Bishop’s Office: Marriage, Doctrine and Dialogue – the Rt. Rev. David H. Lindrooth
    • Four Steps to Healing – A Sermon by the Rev. Dr. Andrew M. T. Dibb
    • A Call to Neighbors – the Rev. Thomas H. Rose
    • Young Adults: What’s the Real Problem? – the Rev. Jeffrey O. Smith
    • Finding the New Jerusalem: The Story of John Clowes – Howard Roth (Edited by Marvin Clymer)
    • Declaration of Faith and Statement of Purpose – the Rev. Justin E. Schorran
    • Church News
  • July/August 2021 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: The Gift of Innocence • Are Feelings Inborn? Can They Be Changed
    • Letters to the Editors
    • Baptism and Implanting Remains – A Sermon by the Rt. Rev. Bradley D. Heinrichs
    • Noah and the Dove: A Parable for Our Lives – A Sermon by the Rev. Solomon J. Keal
    • From the Bishop’s Office: Trust the Lord and Each Other – The Rt. Rev. Peter M. Buss Jr.
    • Bryn Athyn College Commencement Address: Be True to Your Values – Reagan Odhner
    • Academy Secondary Schools Commencement Address: Build – The Rev. Chuck Blair
    • Divine Foresight and Human Free Will – The Rev. N. Bruce Rogers
    • Memorial Day – Bruce Henderson
    • Young Adults: Do We Have a Problem? – The Rev. Jeffrey O. Smith
    • Church News
  • May/June 2021 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: Our Role in Church Growth • the Long Arm of Eschaton
    • Letters to the Editors
    • Sent Out and Sent Out Again – A 19th of June Sermon – the Rt. Rev. Peter M. Buss Jr.
    • What If? – A Sermon by the Rev. Mark D. Pendleton
    • Evil From Birth? – the Rev. Daniel W. Goodenough
    • Church Growth: Expect Persecution (Last of a three-Part Series) Again – the Rev. Michael D. Gladish
    • Finding the New Jerusalem: A Mysterious Writer in England Again – Marvin B. Clymer
    • From the Bishop’s Office – New Church Education Continues Uninterrupted Despite the Pandemic – the Rt. Rev. Bradley D. Heinrichs
    • Johnny Appleseed Education Center and Museum Needs Nurturing Again – the Rev. J. Clark Echols Jr.
    • The Divine Allegory – Michael A. Brown
    • Church News
  • March/April 2021 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: The Substance of Belonging • ‘Follow Me’
    • Letter to the Editors
    • ‘There Must be a Place’ – A Palm Sunday sermon by The Rt. Rev. Peter M. Buss Jr.
    • The Veil Was Torn in Two – An Easter sermon by The Rev. Eric H. Carswell
    • Church Growth: How it Works – Second of three sermons on Church Growth — The Rev. Michael D. Gladish
    • From the Bishop’s Office: Learning to be at Peace with Change — The Rt. Rev. David H. Lindrooth
    • Who Do People Say that I Am? – The Rev. Dr. Andrew M. T. Dibb
    • The Human Lungs and Swedenborg – J. Daniel Heilman, MD
    • Good News from the New Christian Bible Study Project – Steve David
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • January/February 2021 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: The Previous Year is Under Further Review • The Principle of Vaccines
    • Bryn Athyn College Commencement: The Lessons of Adversity – Brian D. Henderson
    • Church Growth: Where it Starts (Part 1) – The Rev. Michael D. Gladish
    • The Essentials of the New Church – The Rt. Rev. David H. Lindrooth
    • From the Bishop’s Office – A Life Founded on the Word: A Core Value, by The Rt. Rev. Peter M. Buss Jr.
    • Memorial Service for the Rev. Frank S. Rose
    • Resilience: Blessing Others – The Rev. John L. Odhner
    • Swedenborg’s Efforts to Find an Audience – Alexis Vega-Singer and Jonathan S. Rose
    • Is it Safe to Speak with Spirits? – The Rev. Jeremy F. Simons
    • Perspectives on Providence – Erik Martin
    • Church News
    • Life Lines

2020 Issues

  • November/December 2020 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: 20/20 Vision Revisited • The Call to Children
    • Letters to the Editors
    • The Sacrifices of Obedience – A Thanksgiving Sermon by Rt. Rev. Bradley D. Heinrichs
    • Shepherds: Teaching, Leading and a Good Life – A Christmas Sermon by Rev. Mark B. Allais
    • Peace Like a River – A Sermon About the Christmas Prophecies by Rev. Jeremy F. Simons
    • From the Bishop’s Office: Being Affirmative to What the Lord Says by Rt. Rev. Bradley D. Heinrichs
    • Charter Day Cathedral Address: Call Upon Him While He is Near by Rt. Rev. Peter M. Buss Jr.
    • Why a New Church Translation of the Word? by Rev. Andrew J. Heilman
    • The Gift and the Challenge of Reading and Understanding the Arcana Coelestia – Michael Brown
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • September/October 2020 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • New Spiritual Editor for New Church Life
    • Editorials: How Long, Lord? • Racism and the 250th Anniversary of the New Church
    • Letters to the Editor
    • Trust in the Lord and Do Good – A Sermon by The Rt. Rev. Peter M. Buss Jr.
    • Declarations and Revolutions – A Sermon by The Rev. Christopher A. Barber
    • The Roots of Racism – A Sermon by The Rev. Mark D. Pendleton
    • Racism: What Can I Do? – The Rev. Howard A. Thompson
    • Nurses, Sacraments and True Worship in the ICU – The Rev. Jay Barry
    • The Character and Quality of Governors – The Rev. Michael D. Gladish
    • From the Bishop’s Office: Who Does the Lord Invite to Participate in the New Church? And Why Does He Invite Them? – The Rt. Rev. David H. Lindrooth
    • Statement of Faith and Purpose – The Rev. Richard M. Glenn
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • July/August 2020 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorial: What Does the Lord Require of You?
    • Letters to the Editor
    • Those Who Are With Us – A Sermon by The Rev. N. Bruce Rogers
    • Laughter – A Sermon by The Rev. Derek P. Elphick
    • Resurrection Address for The Rev. Kurt Horigan Asplundh – The Rev. Kurt Hy. Asplundh
    • From the Bishop’s Office: ‘A Very Present Help in Trouble’ – The Rt. Rev. Peter M. Buss Jr.
    • Graduation Celebration Address: Bryn Athyn College Class of 2020 – President Brian Blair
    • The Reach of New Church Education: An Institute for Swedenborgian Studies at Bryn Athyn College – The Rev. Dr. Thane P. Glenn
    • Adventures in Evangelization on YouTube – The Rev. Todd J. Beiswenger
    • The Minecraft Academy of the New Church: Coping with Quarantine Through Creative Construction – The Rev. Christopher A. Barber
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • May/June 2020 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • A Tribute to the Rev. Kurt Ho. Asplundh The Rev. Walter E. Orthwein
    • The Most Remarkable Event in the History of the Human Race! The Rt. Rev. Bradley D. Heinrichs
    • Editorials: All Things New • The Promise and the Hope
    • Letter to the Editor
    • Seven Golden Lampstands: A Message of Hope from the Lord The Rev. Dr. Andrew M. T. Dibb
    • Walls of Crystal – The Rev. Nathan F. Cole
    • From the Bishop’s Office: Two Lessons from the Pandemic The Rt. Rev. Bradley D. Heinrichs
    • Strengthening Ourselves in the Lord – A Sermon by The Rev. Eric H. Carswell
    • Doctrinal Reflections on the Novel Coronavirus The Rev. Michael D. Gladish
    • 20/20 Vision: Our Search for Truth – The Rev. Jeremy F. Simons
    • Mother’s Day – The Rev. John L. Odhner
    • Setting an Example – The Rev. Alan M. Cowley
    • Theistic Science Symposium – The Rev. Andrew J. Heilman
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • March/April 2020 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • General Church Retreat Cancelled Announcement
    • Editorials: Joy Cometh in the Morning • Generations of Vipers
    • Letters to the Editor
    • “Touch Me Not . . . “ – An Easter Sermon The Rt. Rev. Peter M. Buss Sr.
    • Hope – A Sermon by the Rt. Rev. Brian W. Keith
    • Why Do Bad Things Happen? – The Rev. Jeremy F. Simons
    • Appropriating Good and Evil – The Rev. James P. Cooper
    • Boynton Beach Retreat 2020: We Are All Sowers (Presentations by Chelsea Odhner, Devin Zuber, Bruce Henderson, the Rev. Alan M. Cowley and Tim Bilger)
    • From the Bishop’s Office: The Grand Human Project – The Rt. Rev. David H. Lindrooth
    • State of Bryn Athyn College Address: Celebrating a Common Bond (President Brian Blair, Dean Wendy Closterman, Dean Suzanne Nelson)
    • Time and Eternity – The Rev. Louis Synnestvedt
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • January/February 2020 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: Fear Not • Laying the Foundation
    • Walter Orthwein: A Fond Farewell
    • Letters to the Editors
    • From The Bishop’s Office: Mission and Values – The Rt. Rev. Peter M. Buss Jr.
    • Prayer for Others: New Church Teachings About the Effects of Prayer – The Rev. Jeremy F. Simons
    • Answers to Prayers – The Rev. Jared J. Buss
    • Family Ties – A Sermon by the Rt. Rev. Bradley D. Heinrichs
    • The Life-Changing Power of Order – A Sermon by the Rev. Philip B. Schnarr
    • A Reflection for the New Year on Thought, Rationality and Freedom – The Rev. Howard A. Thompson
    • Who is Swedenborg?
    • It’s Not Swedenborg’s Skull: A True Story – The Rev. Christopher A. Barber
    • As We Retreat into the Future Let Us Not Forget the Past – Michael A. Brown
    • How to Keep Young People in the Faith? – Olaf Hauptmann
    • Church News
    • Life Lines

2019 Issues

  • November/December 2019 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: "And the Word Became Flesh and Dwelt Among Us” •The Gates of Heaven
    • A House of Worship – A Sermon by the Rev. Eric H. Carswell at the 100th Anniversary of the Dedication of the Bryn Athyn Cathedral
    • Go to Galilee – A Charter Day Cathedral Address by the Rev. Mark D. Pendleton
    • The University of the Natural World – Donnette R. Alfelt
    • Christmas Angels – The Rev. John L. Odhner
    • O Lord, Our Lord – A Christmas Sermon by the Rev. N. Bruce Rogers
    • Refrain Your Voice From Weeping, Rachel – A Christmas Sermon by the Rev. Jeremy F. Simons
    • A Place Provided – A Memorial Sermon for the Rev. William Ankra-Badu by The Rt. Rev. Peter M. Buss Jr.
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • September/October 2019 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: Deliver Us From Evil • Gaining Wisdom
    • Letters to the Editors
    • What Does the Academy Mean to Me? The Hope of the Future (Reprinted from 1968) – The Rt. Rev. Willard D. Pendleton
    • Becoming an Angel – A Sermon by the Rt. Rev. David H. Lindrooth
    • The Idolatry of Logic – A Sermon by the Rev. Scott I. Frazier
    • A Brief Exposition and the Scarlet, Flowery Skies in Heaven – The Rev. Kenneth J. Alden
    • 200 Years and 100 Miles: Doctrine’s Failure to Settle the Slavery Debate in the New Church – The Rev. Christopher A. Barber
    • Book Review: Intelligent Default by the Rev. Dr. Reuben P. Bell – Reviewed by the Rev. Walter E. Orthwein
    • The Academy Yearbook Tradition – Marvin Clymer
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • July/August 2019 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: Between Dream and Destiny • The Conjugial Element in All Doctrine
    • Proudly General Church: A Status Report on the General Church The Rt. Rev. Peter M. Buss Jr.
    • Cramming for Our Finals – The Rev. Robert S. Jungé
    • Bryn Athyn College Commencement Address: ‘Transformative’ Gregory L. Baker Ph.D.
    • Academy Secondary Schools Commencement Address: Choices, Consequences, Responsibility – Gail R. Cooper
    • Loving and Serving One’s Country – A Sermon The Rev. Michael D. Gladish
    • A Song for the Sabbath Day – A Sermon by the Rev. Grant H. Odhner
    • Book Review: Rise Above It: Spiritual Development for College Students by the Rev. Dr. Ray and Star Silverman Reviewed by Dr. Kurt Frey
    • About Kingdoms, Heavens and Societies – Vance Genzlinger
    • A Layman’s Statement of Faith – Martin E. Klein
    • Church News
  • May/June 2019 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: The Church in the Mirror • The Woman Clothed with the Sun
    • Declarations of Faith and Purpose – The Rt. Rev. Bradley D. Heinrichs and the Rt. Rev. David H. Lindrooth
    • Knowing Your Path and Walking in It – An Ordination Sermon by the Rt. Rev. Peter M. Buss Jr.
    • From Use, in Use, for Use – An Ordination Sermon by the Rt. Rev. David H. Lindrooth
    • A Project for Teachers New to New Church Educational Philosophy R. Scott Daum
    • Is Bryn Athyn College Important to the New Church? Gregory L. Baker
    • The Curse of the Dragon – A Sermon by the Rev. Jeremy F. Simons
    • How Do We Think About the Word? – A Sermon by the Rev. Erik J. Bus
    • A Doctrinal Framework for Giving to the Church and Academy The Rt. Rev. Brian W. Keith
    • Trinities, Degrees, Correspondences and Influx – Vance Genzlinger
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • March/April 2019 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: 'I Am With You Always' • 'Joy Cometh in the Morning'
    • Letters to the Editors
    • The Light of Truth – The Rev. Eric H. Carswell
    • Signs That Will Follow Those Who Believe - The Rev. Michael D. Gladish
    • Why No Crosses? – The Rev. Todd J. Beiswenger
    • Tender and Powerful – The Rev. Ryan M. Sandstrom
    • Boynton Beach Retreat: Banquet Address by the Rt. Rev. Peter M. Buss Jr., and Presentations by the Rev. Eric H. Carswell, the Rev. Dr. Ray Silverman and the Rev. Jeremy F. Simons
    • Some Examples of the Effects of the Last Judgment - The Rev. Jeremy F. Simons
    • The Holy Supper: The Gate Into Heaven - The Rev. Dr. Erik E. Sandstrom
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • January/February 2019 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: The Gift of an Understanding Heart • Does God Know the Future?
    • Letter to the Editors
    • Memorial Address: The Rt. Rev. Alfred Acton II By the Rt. Rev. Peter M. Buss Sr.
    • Read the Word, Change the World – The Rev. Alan M. Cowley
    • A Yoke on the Neck: Vastation for the Sake of Good A Sermon by the Rev. Kurt Hyland Asplundh
    • The Next Generation of the Church A Sermon by the Rev. Brett D. Buick
    • Just What is the Lord Up To? – Council of the Clergy 2018 The Rt. Rev. Brian W. Keith
    • Interviewing the Revelator – The Rev. W. Cairns Henderson (Reprinted from 1949)
    • Book Review: A Companion to Divine Love and Wisdom by the Rev. Prescott A. Rogers. – Reviewed by the Rev. Walter E. Orthwein
    • Church News
    • Life Lines

2018 Issues

  • November/December 2018 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: The Meaning of Christmas • The Christmas Gift: Peace
    • The Levitical Blessing – A Sermon by the Rt. Rev. Brian W. Keith
    • The ONE God – A Sermon by the Rev. Ryan M. Sandstrom
    • Tell Out Your Soul
    • A Christmas Sermon by the Rev. Howard A. Thompson
    • Charter Day Cathedral Address: The Gratitude Effect - The Rev. Dr. Ray Silverman
    • Charter Day Banquet Talks: The Distinctiveness of New Church Education in the Academy Secondary Schools – Martha Hyatt Odhner, Westley Wedell, Camryn Buss, the Rev. Christopher A. Barber
    • Evolution and Religion: One Scientist’s Perspective - Justin G. Stroh, PhD
    • Book Review: A New Key to the Bible by Bruce Henderson - Reviewed by Peter H. Boericke
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
    • Directory of the General Church Clergy
    • Index for 2018
  • September/October 2018 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: The Simple Truth • Bittersweet • The Quiet New Church Man
    • Letters to the Editors
    • Pride, Humility and Self-Esteem — The Rev. Erik J. Buss
    • Introducing our Ministers: The Rev. Derek P. Elphick
    • Power in the Familiar — The Rev. Derek P. Elphick
    • Report on the 2018 Council of the Clergy Meeting - The Rev. James P. Cooper
    • Memorial Address: James Francis Jungé - The Rev. David H. Lindrooth
    • Chapter Two: Religion Misused and Corrected—Alan J. Bedford, PhD
    • My Personal God-Image: Living Waters from the Wells of Abraham - Dylan C. Odhner
    • A Jigsaw Puzzle — Martin E. Klein
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • July/August 2018 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: Leaven or Lump? • Hope
    • Thought: A Sermon About What Goes on in Your Mind — The Rev. Jeremy F. Simons
    • "The Writing is on the Wall" — The Rev. Solomon J. Keal
    • Bryn Athyn College Commencement: What Is Your Passion? What Are Your Gifts? — Brent Pendleton
    • Academy Secondary Schools Commencement — Bruce and Molly Cronlund
    • Academy Girls School Valedictory: Feeling Loved and Loving at ANC — Qi Rebecca Xiao
    • Preparing to be Receptive of the Lord — The Rev. Alan M. Cowley
    • Pursuing Faith — Allen Bedford, PhD
    • Declarations of Faith — The Rev. Jeffrey Smith and The Rev. Judah Synnestvedt
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • May/June 2018 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: ‘As in Heaven . . .’ • Liberty
    • Letters to the Editors
    • The Descent of the Holy City – A Sermon by the Rev. Eric H. Carswell
    • The Holy Spirit: Third of a Three-Part Series on the Trinity — The Rev. Michael D. Gladish
    • Four Sacrifices, Four Prayers – A Sermon — the Rev. Scott I. Frazier
    • Memorial Address: Major General Frederick A. Fiedler (USAF-Ret.) — The Rev. Daniel W. Goodenough
    • Laborers in the Vineyard: Educating General Church Ministers Outside of Bryn Athyn –The Rev. Dr. Andrew M. T. Dibb
    • Coming Soon to a Church Near You: Robot Priests? — The Rev. Todd J. Beiswenger
    • Book Review: In the Shadow of the Dragon’s Back by Rachel Odhner Longstaff – Reviewed by the Rev. Dr. James F. Lawrence
    • The Planets Play Their Parts – Laurel O. Powell
    • Confession of Faith and Declaration of Purpose — The Rev. Mandla Stole
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • March/April 2018 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: The Path • ‘I Thirst’ • Stand Up to the Darkness
    • Letters to the Editors
    • Easter Symbolism – The Rev. Alan M. Cowley
    • The Son of God: Second of a Three-Part Series on the Trinity The Rev. Michael D. Gladish
    • Boynton Beach Retreat: Presentations by Chara Daum, the Rev. Barry Halterman and the Rt. Rev. Thomas Kline
    • Outreach Through the Internet – Rob Andrews
    • Introducing Our Ministers: The Rev. Joel C. Glenn
    • Heavenly Union: Marriage on Earth – A Sermon by the Rev. Joel C. Glenn
    • Serving the Midst of the Opioid Crisis – The Rev. Chuck Blair
    • Attributes of a Humble Person – The Rev. David H. Lindrooth
  • January/February 2018 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: ‘The Real Jesus’ • Swedenborg and the New Church
    • Letters to the Editors
    • A Safe Crossing – A New Year’s Sermon by the Rev. Kurt Ho. Asplundh
    • Swedenborg’s Story – A Sermon by the Rev. Jeremy F. Simons
    • Our Heavenly Father: First of a Three-Part Series on the Trinity A Sermon by the Rev. Michael D. Gladish
    • What If . . . ? – A Sermon by the Rev. Mark D. Pendleton
    • The Internal Sense of the Word – The Rev. Dr. Erik E. Sandstrom
    • The ‘Young People’ of the Church – Tomoya Okubo
    • The Journey Program: A 10-Year Report – Bronwen Mayer Henry
    • Church News

2017 Issues

  • November/December 2017 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: Christmas Counterpoint • Religious Feelings: Peace • The Increase of the Earth
    • Letters to the Editors
    • Nothing is Impossible for God A Christmas Sermon by the Rt. Rev. Brian W. Keith
    • Timeless Messages in the Word – The Rt. Rev. Peter M. Buss Jr.
    • The 500th Anniversary of the Reformation: Martin Luther, The Last Judgment and the New Church – The Rev. Dr. Andrew M. T. Dibb
    • Charter Day Address: An Opened Door to a Higher Education The Rev. Michael K. Cowley
    • The Remarkable Story of John Bigelow – The Rev. William Hyde Alden
    • New Christian Bible Study Update – Steve David
    • The Symbolism of the Psalms: A Spiritual Commentary Reviewed by the Rev. Dr. James F. Lawrence
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
    • General Church Annual Report
    • Directory of the General Church Clergy
    • Announcements
    • Index
  • September/October 2017 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: The Test of Power • Religious Feelings: Conjugial Love • ‘What Unites Us Is Stronger That What Divides Us’ • The Power of One Angel
    • Letter to the Editors
    • A Racist Free World – The Rev. Jeremy F. Simons
    • The Purpose and Value of Life in This World – A Sermon by the Rev. Michael D. Gladish
    • Salvation By Means of a New Heart and a New Mind – A Sermon by the Rev. Eric H. Carswell
    • Report on the 2017 Council of the Clergy Meetings – The Rev. Kenneth J. Alden
    • European Assembly 2017 – Ray and Brenda Waters
    • A Counterattack on Darwinism – Per Bingen
    • The Earths in the Universe: Teachings, Reflections and Speculations – The Rev. Willard L. D. Heinrichs
    • The Mystery of the Prehistoric Predator – Joseph S. David
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • July/August 2017 (View pages)
    July/August 2017 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: The Simple Truth • Religious Feelings: Contentment
    • Letters to the Editors
    • The New Understanding of the Word – The Rev. James P. Cooper
    • The Divine Inspiration of Emanuel Swedenborg – The Rev. Geoffrey S. Childs
    • Discerning Love: The Best Way to Help – A Sermon by the Rev. John L. Odhner
    • Finding Our Lost Sheep – A Sermon by the Rev. Solomon J. Keal
    • Bryn Athyn College Commencement: Always the Right Answer – Good and Truth – Erin Glenn Busby
    • Academy Secondary Schools Commencement: Preparation for Wise Choices – Leann P. Hill
    • Conjugial Love Study in the Academy Girls School – Kira Schadegg, Principal
    • It’s Okay to be a Space Cadet: Appreciating the Power of Forgiveness – Sasha Silverman
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • May/June 2017 (View pages)
    May/June 2017 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: Revelation as a Mirror • The Marriage Supper of the Lamb • Religious Feelings: Yearning and Hope
    • Letters to the Editors
    • Progress and Development of the New Church – The Rev. Willard L. D. Heinrichs
    • What News From Earth? – A Sermon by the Rev. Jeremy F. Simons
    • Go and Sin No More – A Sermon by the Rev. Grant H. Odhner
    • Bryn Athyn College Extends Its Reach
    • Swedenborg and the Arts International Conference
    • Indexing His Way into Further Enlightenment: Discovering Swedenborg’s Process Through Translation – The Rev. Dr. Jonathan S. Rose
    • A Daily Reading Schedule for the Arcana Coelestia
    • Finding Hope: Talking About Addiction, Suicide, Domestic Violence and Mental Illness – Bronwen M. Henry
    • Charity Works: Carrying the New Church Mission into Service in El Salvador – Tara Dugan
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • March/April 2017 (View pages)
    March/April 2017 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: The Roots of Easter • The Cry of Suicide • History and Divine Providence • Religious Feelings: Holy Fear and Unworthiness
    • Letters to the Editors
    • The Stones Would Immediately Cry Out – A Palm Sunday Sermon by The Rev. Eric H. Carswell
    • What the Lord Actually Accomplished by His Incarnation – The Rev. Michael D. Gladish
    • Finding the Humanity in Judas Iscariot – The Rev. Christopher A. Barber
    • In Support of Mental and Spiritual Health – A Sermon by The Rev. David C. Roth
    • Coping With Grief – The Rev. David C. Roth
    • The Non-Appropriation of Evil – A Sermon by The Rev. Geoffrey H. Howard
    • Boynton Beach Retreat 2017
    • ‘Lead Us and Guide Us, Lord’ – Naomi (Scott) Reid
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • January/February 2017 (View pages)
    January/February 2017 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: With All Your Heart, and With All Your Soul • Religious Feelings: A Sense of Holiness
    • Letters to the Editors
    • How the Lord Preserves Freedom, Yet Still Leads – by Bending The Rt. Rev. Brian W. Keith
    • What Can I Do? – A Sermon by the Rev. Dr. Thane P. Glenn
    • Unity Brings Progress into Every Aspect of Human Life A Sermon by the Rev. Edward Akotey
    • Why I Call Myself a Swedenborgian – The Rev. Derrick A. M. Lumsden
    • The Lord is Speaking to You – The Rev. Dr. Ray Silverman
    • Introducing Our Ministers: From Tanks and Courtrooms to the Pulpit The Rev. Brett D. Buick
    • I Am the Bread of Life – A Sermon by the Rev. Brett D. Buick
    • Book Review: The Ten Commandments
    • Church News
    • Life Lines

2016 Issues

  • November/December 2016 (View pages)
    November/December 2016 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: ‘Harps of Gold’ • The Call to Humility • Born To Be a Messenger
    • Letter to the Editors
    • Every Stone Shall Cry: A Christmas Sermon by the Rev. Jeremy F. Simons
    • A Horn of Salvation in the House of David – The Rev. Kurt Hy. Asplundh
    • This Changes Everything – Charter Day Cathedral Address – The Rev. Stephen D. Cole
    • Memorial Address: The Rev. Norman E. Riley – The Rev. Walter E. Orthwein
    • The Miracle and the Theology of Handel’s Messiah – The Rev. Dr. Erik E. Sandstrom
    • The New Christian Bible Study Project: How’s it Going? – Steve David
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
    • General Church Annual Report
    • Directory of the General Church Clergy
    • Index 2016
  • September/October 2016 (View pages)
    September/October 2016 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: Thy Kingdom Come, Thy Will Be Done • Labor Day
    • Letters to the Editors
    • The Gift of Inspiration – A Sermon by the Rev. John L. Odhner
    • Greater Engagement: A Plan for the General Church – The Rt. Rev. Peter M. Buss Jr.
    • Friendship – A Sermon by the Rev. Bradley D. Heinrichs
    • General Church Religion Lessons and the General Church – Sarah B. Odhner
    • Introducing Our Ministers: Changed by Faith and Paying it Forward: – The Rev. Christopher A. Barber
    • Considering Conscience – A Sermon by the Rev. Christopher A. Barber
    • Book Review: Growth Pains and Pleasures By the Rev. Frank S. Rose, – Reviewed by Bronwen M. Henry
    • Prayer’s Role in the Salvation of our Soul – The Rev. Kurt P. Nemitz
    • The Character and Possible Uses of the Spiritual Diary/ Spiritual Experiences – The Rev. Willard L. D. Heinrichs
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • July/August 2016 (View pages)
    July/August 2016 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: Rights and Responsibilities • The Pursuit of Happiness
    • Letters to the Editors
    • Be Fruitful and Multiply – The Rt. Rev. Brian W. Keith
    • Loving One’s Country and Disagreements – The Rev. Eric H. Carswell
    • Purposefulness: Bryn Athyn College Graduation Banquet Address - Dr. Allen J. Bedford
    • Feeling the Flow of the Lord’s Love: Academy Secondary Schools Commencement Address – The Rev. J. Clark Echols
    • The Future of the Christian Church and a Prediction of its Interaction With the New Church – Craig W. Bostock
    • Book Review: The Abridged Arcana Coelestia – By Dr. Willard Mansfield – Reviewed by the Rt. Rev. Peter M. Buss Sr.
    • Swedenborg Library: Carroll Chamberlain Odhner – A Retrospective
    • The Sound of Infinity – The Rev. Stephen D. Cole
    • Jonathan Hanford Olds: A Legacy for the Future – Judith A. Lopacki
    • Declarations of Faith and Statements of Purpose
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • May/Jun 2016 (View pages)
    May/Jun 2016 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: The Promise and the Challenge • The Election
    • Letters to the Editors
    • The New Church and the Nicodemus Tension – The Rev. Christopher A. Barber
    • Memorial Day Address – The Rev. Thomas H. Rose
    • Letting Love Be Our Spiritual Clothing – The Rev. Jared J. Buss
    • Memorial Address: The Rev. Douglas McCloud Taylor – The Rev. Walter E. Orthwein
    • Surely We Are Not Swedenborgians! – The Rev. Gerald G. Waters
    • Does the Lord Want You to Join the Church Organization? – The Rev. Kenneth J. Alden
    • Redemption and Reading the Heavenly Doctrines – The Rev. William H. Clifford
    • How Do We Love God? – The Rev. Charles E. (Chuck) Blair
    • Emanuel Swedenborg and the Popol Vuh: The Myth of the Ancient Word – Dylan C. Odhner
    • Classical New Church Journals Find Life in a Digital Age – Marvin B. Clymer
  • Mar/Apr 2016 (View pages)
    Mar/Apr 2016 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: How Can We Believe in the Lord’s Resurrection? • Our Walk to Emmaus • ‘What is Wrong With It?’
    • Letters to the Editors
    • The Final Victory Over Hell – A Sermon by the Rev. James P. Cooper
    • The Eternity of Marriage – A Sermon by the Rev. Brett D. Buick
    • Boynton Beach Retreat 2016: A Summary of Presentations by Dr. Martha Gyllenhaal, the Rev. Mark D. Pendleton and Curtis Childs
    • Boynton Beach Banquet Address: – Bryn Athyn College President Brian Blair
    • Memorial Address for B. Reade Genzlinger – The Rev. Kurt Hy. Asplundh
    • A Stumbling Block to Sharing Our Faith – The Rev. Kenneth J. Alden
    • The Right Guy for the Bad Times, Or the Plastic Bag Diet – Nadine Rogers
    • Introducing Our Ministers: Leading Tours Leads to the Ministry – The Rev. Nathan F. Cole
    • It Gets Worse Before it Gets Better – A Sermon by the Rev. Nathan F. Cole
    • What is Leadership From a New Church Perspective? – The Rev. Derrick A. M. Lumsden
  • Jan/Feb2016 (View pages)
    Jan/Feb 2016 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: On Young People Leaving the Church — But What Can We Do? — The Case for Optimism
    • The Growth of the Lord – A Sermon by the Rev. Michael D. Gladish
    • Contempt or Rebellion on the Way to Maturity – A Sermon by the Rt. Rev. Peter M. Buss Sr.
    • Looking Down on Others – A Children’s Talk by the Rt. Rev. Peter M. Buss Sr.
    • Memorial Address for Dr. Sherri R. Cooper – The Rev. Dr. Jonathan S. Rose
    • Small Groups in the New Church – The Rev. John L. Odhner
    • Episcopal Visit to Brazil – The Rt. Rev. Brian W. Keith
    • Two Kinds of Zeal – The Rev. Dr. Ray Silverman
    • Islam, Swedenborg and the Heavenly Doctrines – Benjamin Pendleton
    • Gifts from the Lord – Joseph S. David
    • Church News
    • Life Lines

2015 Issues

  • Nov/Dec 2015 (View pages)
    Nov/Dec 2015 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: Practicing Thankfulness • The Gift of Light • The Pope and the New Church
    • Letters to the Editors
    • We Found Him in the Fields of the Forest – A Sermon by the Rev. Jeremy F. Simons
    • Grace and Gratitude – The Rev. Dr. Andrew M. T. Dibb
    • Take Flight – Charter Day Cathedral Address: The Rev. David C. Roth
    • Bryn Athyn College Charter Day Banquet Program: Innovation in Learning About Democracy
    • As in Heaven, So Upon the Earth: Reflections on the Lord’s Prayer – The Rev. Dr. Ray Silverman
    • Introducing Our Ministers: The Rev. Solomon J. Keal
    • The Magi – A Sermon by the Rev. Solomon J. Keal
    • Reflections on Life at the Theological School – Dean Andrew M. T. Dibb
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
    • General Church Clergy Directory
    • Index 2015
  • Sept/Oct 2015 (View pages)
    Sept/Oct 2015 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: What Are We Looking For? — The Gift of Spiritual Knowledge — The Use of Knowing
    • Letters to the Editors
    • Seeing the Lord in the Word – A Sermon by the Rev. John L. Odhner
    • Friendship in Marriage – A Sermon by the Rt. Rev. Brian W. Keith
    • The Marriage of Love and Wisdom: A Response to the Same-Sex Marriage Ruling in the United States – The Rt. Rev. Peter M. Buss Jr.
    • Report on the 2015 Council of the Clergy Meetings – The Rev. Kenneth J. Alden
    • Episcopal Visit to Ivory Coast and Burkina Faso – The Rt. Rev. Brian W. Keith
    • The Love Languages of the Lord – Caira Bevan Bongers
    • Introducing Our Ministers: The Rev. Calvin A. Odhner
    • We Are All Born Blind – A Sermon by the Rev. Calvin A. Odhner
    • True Freedom – A Sermon by the Rev. Ryan M. Sandstrom
    • Ready to Grow? Come to the Sunroom – Kendall Hyatt
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • Jul/Aug 2015 (View pages)
    Jul/Aug 2015 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: Why New Church Education? — Organized Religion
    • Letters to the Editors
    • The Pass-Fail Test the Lord has Presented to Every Church Down Through the Ages – The Rev. Willard L. D. Heinrichs
    • Reflections on Suicide – The Rev. John L. Odhner
    • The Earth Helped the Woman – The Rev. Kenneth J. Alden
    • Laying Down Our Lives for Our Friends – A Sermon by the Rev. Todd J. Beiswenger
    • States Preceding Repentance – A Sermon by the Rev. Scott I. Frazier
    • The Beauty of Imperfection – The Rev. Walter E. Orthwein
    • Bryn Athyn College Commencement Address: The Keys to a Purpose-Driven Life – Brian Blair
    • Farewell to the Graduating Class – President Kristin King
    • Academy Secondary Schools Commencement: A Totally Unique Tool Box – The Rev. Calvin and Maggie Odhner
    • Introducing Our Ministers: Becoming a Minister . . . Because I Had No Other Choice – The Rev. Alan M. Cowley
    • Church and the Human Form – A Sermon by the Rev. Alan M. Cowley
    • It’s Gettin’ Real: Small Group Systems Retreat 2015 – Sasha Silverman
    • Declarations of Faith and Purpose
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • May/Jun 2015 (View pages)
    May/Jun 2015 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: ‘The Bright and Morning Star — "There Was War in Heaven"
    • Letters to the Editors
    • A New Look at Governance Issues in the General Church – The Rt. Rev. Brian W. Keith
    • The New Jerusalem – A Sermon by the Rev. Malcolm G. Smith
    • What is New About the New Church? – The Rev. Daniel W. Goodenough
    • The Rim of Gold –A Sermon by the Rev. James H. (Jay) Barry
    • Freedom to be New Church – A Sermon by the Rev. Howard A. Thompson
    • A Wake-Up Call: Will the General Church Survive and Thrive?Peter H. Boericke
    • Reflections on a Gift of '95 Theses' – The Rev. Dr. Ray Silverman
    • Introducing Our Ministers: A Ministry Born of Loving PeopleThe Rev. C. Mark Perry
    • Plane Kindness – The Rev. Coleman S. Glenn
    • Book Review: V as in Victor, by Naomi Gladish Smith, reviewed by Vera Powell Glenn
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • Mar/Apr 2015 (View pages)
    Mar/Apr 2015(PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: ‘All Things New’ — Love’s ‘Commands’ — Hard Sayings: Homosexuality and Gay Marriage — Guest Editorial: Reflections on Paris
    • Letters to the Editors
    • The Walk to Emmaus – A Sermon by the Rev. Michael D. Gladish
    • Heaven is an Attitude – A Sermon by the Rev. Mark D. Pendleton
    • Boynton Beach Retreat 2015 – Bruce Henderson
    • What is New Church Education and Why Should We Care? Part Two –The Rt. Rev. Peter M. Buss Jr.
    • Extraordinary Ordinary Moments: What Ten Weeks Volunteering in Kenya Taught Me – Cailin Elphick
    • Women Priests: Freedom and Providence – Chelsea Rose Odhner
    • Women and the Ministry: Leading Must Come from the Word –The Rev. Lawson M. Smith
    • Why Join the General Church? – The Rev. N. Bruce Rogers
    • What the Word Says About Homosexuality – The Rev. Willard L. D. Heinrichs
    • The Christian Case for Traditional Marriage – The Rev. Kurt P. Nemitz
    • Priorities in Parenting – The Rev. Derrick A. M. Lumsden
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • Jan/Feb 2015 (View pages)
    Jan/Feb 2015  (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: Editorials: Diligently to Read… — New Church Virtues: Masculinity and Femininity
    • Letters to the Editors
    • A New Beginning – A New Year’s Sermon by the Rev. Dr. Andrew M. T. Dibb
    • Building Spiritual Reserves – A Sermon by the Rev. David H. Lindrooth
    • The Mystery of Swedenborg’s Rules of Life – The Rev. Dr. Erik E. Sandstrom
    • What is New Church Education and Why Should We Care? The Rt. Rev. Peter M. Buss Jr.
    • Love in the Celestial Spheres: Seeing Our Relationships in Earth,Moon and Sun – E. Kent Rogers
    • How the Academy/General Church Was First Launched in England in 1874 – Patrick L. Johnson
    • Helping Children in Crisis in Kenya: Proud to be a Part of this Work – Kay R. Alden
    • Introducing Our Ministers: Spiritual ‘Genes’ With a Personal Fit – The Rev. Erik J. Buss
    • Expanding Your Wisdom and Influence – A Sermon by the Rev. Erik J. Buss
    • An Interview with Donnette R. Alfelt: My Changing View on Women in the Ministry
    • A Website for Papers on Gender Issues in the Church
    • Book Review: Spiritual Law: The Essence of Swedenborg’s Divine Providence, by Joanna V. Hill, reviewed by Roslyn Taylor
    • Church News
    • Life Lines

2014 Issues

  • Nov/Dec 2014 (View pages)
    Nov/Dec 2014  (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: Gender and the Church — The Beautiful Story of the Lord’s Advent — New Church Virtues: Trust in Providence
    • Statement About Gender and Clergy – The Rt. Rev. Brian W. Keith
    • Responses to the Bishop’s Statement – Michelle Chapin and Kristin Coffin Daum
    • His Mercy Endures Forever – The Rt. Rev. Peter M. Buss Jr.
    • The Name ‘Jesus’ – A Sermon by the Rt. Rev. Brian W. Keith
    • His Covenant Forever: All Things New – Charter Day Cathedral Address by the Rev. Dr. Thane P. Glenn
    • Introducing Our Ministers: A Christmas Gift for a Spiritual Quest – The Rev. Goran R. Appelgren
    • Seeing Life on Three Levels – A Sermon by the Rev. Goran R. Appelgren
    • Book Reviews: Feeding His Flock: Parenting Preschoolers by the Rev. Robert S. Junge, reviewed by Kathy Grant Schrock; Altruism: Many Kinds of Kindness by Soni S. Werner PhD, reviewed by Karin A. Childs
    • Helping Hands – Bryn Athyn College’s Altruism Class Shares Their Experiences of Serving
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • Sep/Oct 2014 (View pages)
    Sep/Oct 2014 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: Choose This Day — War and Peace — New Church Virtues: Spirituality
    • Our Unique Planet – The Rev. Stephen D. Cole
    • Report on the 2014 Ministers Meetings – The Rev. Kenneth J. Alden
    • Fishing on the Right Side of the Boat – A Sermon by the Rev. Erik J. Buss
    • Needs and Deeds – Sasha Silverman
    • A Light Burden – A Sermon by the Rev. Eric H. Carswell
    • How Can We Believe? – The Rev. Coleman S. Glenn
    • ‘The Lord is Smiling on the Church in Kenya’ – The Rt. Rev. Brian W. Keith
    • Introducing Our Ministers: From Landscaping to Planting Spiritual Seeds – The Rev. Bradley D. Heinrichs
    • ‘Do Not Worry About Tomorrow’ – A Sermon by the Rev. Bradley D. Heinrichs
    • Book Review: – Osteopathy and Swedenborg by David Fuller, DO, reviewed by the Rev. Dr. Reuben P. Bell, DO; The Triune Word by the Rev. Prescott A. Rogers, reviewed by the Rev. Walter E. Orthwein
    • Declarations of Faith and Purpose
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • Jul/Aug 2014 (View pages)
    Jul/Aug 2014 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: The Authority of the Writings — Trust and Optimism — New Church Virtues: Uniting Charity and Faith
    • Letter to the Editors
    • The Promise of a New Day – A Sermon by the Rev. James H. (Jay) Barry
    • Externalize the Lies: Legion and the Pigs – A Sermon by the Rev. Solomon J. Keal
    • Bryn Athyn College Commencement
    • Memorial Service for the Rev. Leslie Sheppard – The Rev. Ian A. Arnold
    • Memorial Service for Morna Hyatt – The Rev. Eric H. Carswell
    • Episcopal Visit to South Africa – The Rt. Rev. Peter M. Buss Jr.
    • Introducing Our Ministers: Lessons from Fathers of the Road to the Ministry – The Rev. Todd J. Beiswenger
    • Mastering the Basics – A Sermon by the Rev. Todd J. Beiswenger
    • Theta Alpha International Lives On!
    • Declarations of Faith and Purpose
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • May/Jun 2014 (View pages)
    May/Jun 2014 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: The Birth, and Perpetual Rebirth, of the New Church — Unique in the World — New Church Virtues: Hope — Our New Church Vocabulary
    • Letters to the Editors
    • The Date of June 19th – The Rt. Rev. Brian W. Keith
    • Celebrating New Church Marriages – The Rt. Rev. Brian W. Keith
    • Woman, Behold Thy Son: A Mother’s Day Sermon – The Rev. Dr. Andrew M. T. Dibb
    • Noah’s Ark: The Real Story – The Rev. Dr. Erik E. Sandstrom
    • Remembering the Lord’s Life – The Rev. Coleman S. Glenn
    • Introducing Our Ministers: A Purveyor of Hope – The Rev. Mark D. Pendleton
    • Little By Little: Spiritual Rebirth is a Gradual Process – Sermon by the Rev. Mark D. Pendleton
    • Small Groups in the New Church – The Rev. John L. Odhner
    • Some Thoughts for the New Church – Karl Birjukov
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • Mar/Apr 2014 (View pages)
    Mar/Apr 2014 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: Death With Dignity: Reflections on Good Friday — Stirring Things Up at Easter — New Church Virtues: Prudence and Trust in Providence
    • Letters to the Editors
    • The Priesthood and Gender: The Clergy Process for Reappraisal – The Rt. Rev. Brian W. Keith
    • Easter Message: ‘That Which Reigns Universally’ – The Rt. Rev. Peter M. Buss Jr.
    • Not Going Beyond What God has Spoken: What Guides Policy in the General Church? – The Rev. Jeremy F. Simons
    • ‘For He is Risen’ – A Sermon by the Rev. Bradley D. Heinrichs
    • Boynton Beach Retreat – Bruce Henderson
    • Boynton Beach Retreat Banquet Address: Bryn Athyn College – Dr. Kristin King, President
    • Introducing Our Ministers: Focusing on the ‘Big Picture’ in Religion – The Rev. Barry C. Halterman
    • Palm Sunday: A Different Kind of Kingdom, a Different Kind of King – A Sermon by the Rev. Barry C. Halterman
    • A Search for the Truth – Doug Webber
    • Another Way to Look at Women in the Priesthood – The Rev. Robert S. Junge
    • My Ministry of Care – Tryn Rose Seley
    • General Church Education: 80,000 and Counting… – Rachel Glenn
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • Jan/Feb 2014 (View pages)
    Jan/Feb 2014 (PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: ‘Influenced by Swedenborg’ — Life and the Church — New Church Virtues: Humility
    • Letters to the Editors
    • Charter Day – Its Celebration and Meaning – Chancellor Brian W. Keith
    • Glencairn Museum: Enriching the Academy’s Mission ~ Embracing the Challenge to Extend Its Reach – Brian D. Henderson
    • What Does it Mean to Be a Human Being? – A Sermon by the Rev. Dr. Ray Silverman
    • Seeing Patterns – A New Year’s Sermon by the Rev. Eric H. Carswell
    • Distinctiveness in the Academy Girls School: An Update – Susan O. Odhner
    • A New Blog by the Rev. Frank S. Rose
    • Kenya Theological School Graduation – Talks by the Rev. Dr. Andrew M. T. Dibb, the Rev. Grant H. Odhner, Brother George Magero, and the Rev. Samson Abuga
    • What the Young People Are Saying – Rachel Buss
    • What is the Opportunity in Change? – The Rev. Charles (Chuck) E. Blair
    • Stepping Up as Leading Men – The Rev. Mark B. Allais
    • The Inspiration of the Navy SEALs – Bonnie G. Frazier
    • Women in the Clergy: A Response – Al Lindsay
    • What is the Future of Theta Alpha International? A Proposal
    • Church News
    • Life Lines

2013 Issues

  • Nov/Dec 2013 (View pages)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: Harvest Time - Season of Light, Season of Hope - New Church Virtues: Chastity
    • Joseph: Looking for the Lord in Other People – A Sermon by the Rev. Solomon J. Keal
    • Preparing for Advent: Are You Ready? – The Rev. Emily Jane Lemole
    • Three Perspectives on the Advent – E. Kent Rogers
    • Ordinations in West Africa – The Rt. Rev. Peter M. Buss Jr.
    • Ivory Coast Graduation: The Gift of Innocence – The Rev. Goran R. Appelgren
    • Playing a New Church Trump Card: The New Christian Bible Study Project – Steve David
    • Introducing Our Ministers: The Rev. Howard A. Thompson
    • ‘And Who Is My Neighbor?’ – A Sermon by the Rev. Howard A. Thompson
    • The Meaning of Numbers – The Rev. Alan M. Cowley
    • Seven Publications in Seven Months – The Rev. John E. Elliott
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • Sept/Oct 2013 (View pages)
    Inside this issue:

    • A Message and News from the Bishop’s Office – The Rt. Rev. Brian W. Keith
    • Editorials: New Church Virtues: Reverence — Holy Ignorance — Why the Academy Has Received Such Support — The Life of Choice
    • Letter to the Editors
    • Follow Me – A Sermon by the Rev. James H. (Jay) Barry
    • Gender and the Priesthood of the New Church in the 21st Century – A Paper by the Rev. N. Bruce Rogers
    • Innocence in Children and Adults – A Worship Talk by the Rev. Solomon J. Keal
    • ‘Choose This Day Whom You Will Serve’ – Last of a three-part series by the Rev. Grant H. Odhner
    • One Nation Under God – Independence Day Address by Peter H. Boericke
    • ‘We Hold These Truths’: Our Country’s Religious Roots – Review of a Booklet by the Rev. Robert S. Junge
    • Leaving – An Address to Bryn Athyn College Graduates – Allen J. Bedford, PhD
    • ‘Forgive Them, For They Know Not What They Do’ – The Rev. J. Clark Echols
    • The Way Things Seem – The Rev. Frederick C. Elphick
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • July/Aug 2013 (View pages)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: ‘Seek Peace And Pursue It’ — The Spirit of the Academy — The Vision and Mission of the Academy — New Church Virtues: Introspection
    • Letters to the Editors
    • Declarations of Faith and Purpose
    • Faith and Purpose – A Talk by the Rt. Rev. Peter M. Buss Jr. on his Ordination into the Third Degree of the Priesthood
    • The Power of Parables – A Sermon by the Rev. Jeremy F. Simons
    • Go Up, You Baldhead! – A Sermon by the Rev. James P. Cooper
    • The Confidence to Make a Difference – Bryn Athyn College Commencement Address by the Rev. Eric H. Carswell
    • A Coach and a Winning Team – Academy Secondary Schools Commencement Address by Cory B. Boyce
    • ‘Choose This Day Whom You Will Serve’ – Second of a three-part series by the Rev. Grant H. Odhner
    • The Challenge of Pornography – Second of a two-part series by the Rev. Robert S. Junge
    • Introducing Our Ministers: The Rev. Ryan M. Sandstrom
    • Filling After Jehovah – A Sunday Family Talk by the Rev. Ryan M. Sandstrom
    • Episcopal Trip to West Africa – The Rt. Rev. Brian W. Keith
    • Report of the Asia/Pacific Regional Clergy Meetings – The Rt. Rev. Peter M. Buss Jr.
    • Helping Children in Crisis – Wade W. Buick
    • Beyond Marriage, Money and Mortgages: Making Meaningful Connections With Young and New People – Bronwen M. Henry
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • May/Jun 2013 (View pages)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: Patience and Trust — ‘Toward a New Church University’ — ‘Lead Us Not Into Temptation’ — New Church Virtues: Seriousness
    • An Overview of the Whole Book of Revelation – A Sermon by the Rev. Michael D. Gladish
    • The Five Commandments – A Sermon by the Rev. John L. Odhner
    • ‘Choose This Day Whom You Will Serve’ – First of a three-part series by The Rev. Grant H. Odhner
    • The Insidious Threat of Pornography – First of a two-part series by the Rev. Robert S. Junge
    • Bryn Athyn College: A Crucible Moment – Dr. Kristin King, President
    • Introducing Our Ministers: The Rev. Peter M. Buss Jr.
    • ‘Blessed are the Peacemakers’ – A Sermon by the Rev. Peter M. Buss Jr.
    • Impact 365: Ministering to the Missing Generation – Sasha Silverman
    • Regional Clergy Meetings: Western United States – The Rev. Ethan D. McCardell
    • Growth of the Female Mind: Sincerity and Severity: Book Summary – Dr. Soni S. Werner
    • Growth of the Female Mind: Sincerity and Severity: Book Review by Karin A. Childs
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • Mar/Apr 2013 (View pages)
    Inside this issue:

    • Announcement of Assistant to the Bishop
    • Editorials: ‘His Going Forth is as the Dawn’ — ‘Deliver Us From Evil’ — New Church Virtues: Sincerity
    • Letters to the Editors
    • Unless a Grain of Wheat Dies – An Easter Sermon by the Rev. Grant H. Odhner
    • Does the Lord Always Get What He Wants? – A Sermon by the Rev. Eric H. Carswell
    • The Church and the Laity – A Study for the Council of the Clergy by the Rev. Derek P. Elphick
    • Eldergarten 2013 – Bruce M. Henderson
    • Eldergarten Presentations: Brian D. Henderson, the Rev. George D. McCurdy and the Rev. Dr. Ray J. Silverman
    • How the Light Gets In – Eldergarten Banquet Address: The Rev. Emily Jane A. Lemole
    • The Exciting Emerging Church in Cuba – The Rev. Göran R. Appelgren
    • Introducing Our Ministers: The Rev. Malcolm G. Smith
    • ‘As We Also Forgive Our Debtors’ – A Sermon by the Rev. Malcolm G. Smith
    • The Fabric of Consciousness or Jesus Christ? – The Rev. Ronald D. (Ronnie) Schnarr
    • Book Review – True Christianity, Volume 2, New Century Edition – Reviewed by the Rev. Dr. Thane P. Glenn
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • Jan/Feb 2013 (View pages)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: A Test of Character; New Light on Virtue; The Innocence of Wisdom; Tragedy, The Lord, and Christmas Love
    • The Enduring Purpose of New Church Life – The Rev. W. Cairns Henderson
    • Letters to the Editors
    • A Message from the Rt. Rev. Brian W. Keith
    • Waking Up to Eternal Life – A Sermon by the Rev. Kenneth J. Alden
    • Little by Little: Our Slow Spiritual Growth A Sermon by the Rev. Erik J. Buss
    • The Word of the Lord Goes West – Vera P. Glenn
    • Who Trusts in the Lord Shall Be as a Tree Planted by the Waters: Part III – E. Kent Rogers
    • The Eternity of the Hells – The Rev. Willard L. D. Heinrichs
    • Hyperbole in Revelation – The Rev. Stephen D. Cole
    • The Apocalypse of John: Paintings by G. Roland Smith – Stephen H. Morley
    • Impact 365: Ministering to the Missing Generation – General Church Outreach
    • The Path of Integrity – The Rev. Solomon J. Keal
    • Developments in the Ivory Coast – The Rt. Rev. Brian W. Keith
    • Preparing a Place – Alanna Rose
    • Book Reviews: The Core of Johnny Appleseed – Reviewed by Sylvia Montgomery Shaw; Ghost Brother Angel – Reviewed by Peter H. Boericke
    • Church News
    • Life Lines

2012 Issues

    • Nov/Dec 2012 (View pages)
      Inside this issue:

      • Editorials: O Give Thanks . . . — Being Thankful for Having a Church To Go To — Silent Night — Mint
      • Letters to the Editors
      • The Dayspring From on High – Sermon by the Rev. Walter E. Orthwein
      • A Little Child Shall Lead Them: Innocence and Peace at Christmas – A Sermon by the Rev. Coleman S. Glenn
      • Charter Day Cathedral Address – The Rev. Eric H. Carswell
      • Spiritual Economics – The Rev. Kurt Ho. Asplundh
      • ‘The Crown of All Churches’: What Does That Mean? – The Rev. Thane P. Glenn
      • Introducing Our Ministers: The Rev. Garry B. Walsh
      • Seeing Ourselves in the Parable of the Mustard Seed – A Sermon by the Rev. Garry B. Walsh
      • In the World But Not of It – The Rev. Norman E. Riley
      • A Church Specific or The Lord’s Church . . . Specifically – Fran Raymond
      • A Parable of God’s Gifts – The Rev. William H. Clifford
      • Book Reviews: A Descriptive Biography of the Works of Emanuel Swedenborg; Swedenborg and Osteopathy
      • Church News
      • Life Lines
      • Annual Report of the Secretary of the General Church
      • Directory of the General Church Clergy
      • Index for 2012
    • Sept/Oct 2012 (View pages)
      Sept/Oct 2012 (PDF)
      Inside this issue:

      • Editorials: Defining Marriage — Redefining Marriage — ‘I Grieved in Spirit’ — The Distinctiveness of New Church Gender Education
      • Letters to the Editors
      • ‘Render to God’: Religion and the Civil State – A Sermon by the Rev. N. Bruce Rogers
      • The Challenge of making Conjugial Love Relevant in Today’s Classroom – Susan O. Odhner
      • Brothers Dwelling in Unity: A Worship Talk for the Council of the Clergy – The Rev. Lawson M. Smith
      • Report of the Council of the Clergy – The Rev. Kenneth J. Alden
      • Who Trusts in the Lord Shall be as a Tree Planted by the Waters: Second Of a Three-Part Series: – E. Kent Rogers
      • Amen, The Sound of Truth – The Rev. Stephen D. Cole
      • Introducing Our Ministers: The Rev. Matthew L. Genzlinger
      • Believing in the Heavenly Doctrine – An Article by the Rev. Matthew L. Genzlinger
      • What Do We have in Common With Other Christians? – The Rev. Solomon J. Keal
      • New Church Teachings Put to the Test – Candice Edmunds
      • Our Attitude Toward Evil – Tom David
      • Church News
      • Life Lines
    • July/August 2012 (View pages)
      Inside this issue:

      • The Rt. Rev. Brian W. Keith Nominated as Executive Bishop
      • Editorials: Change and the Church; Reverence for Nature; Spiritual Environmentalism
      • Letters to the Editors
      • Time, Space and Conscience – A Sermon by the Rev. Goran R. Appelgren
      • New Heaven and New Earth – The Rev. Norman E. Riley
      • Bryn Athyn College Commencement Address: Once in a Lifetime – Stephen H. Smith, MD
      • Bryn Athyn College Commencement Farewell – President Kristin King
      • Academy Secondary Schools Commencement Address: Be a Role Model for Marriage, for Passion and for Courage – Shawn O. Synnestvedt
      • Spiritual Sustainability – John Frost
      • Response to Spiritual Sustainability – The Rev. Derrick A.M. Lumsden
      • Who Trusts in the Lord Shall be as a Tree Planted by the Waters: First of a Three-Part Series – E. Kent Rogers
      • Introducing Our Ministers: Rev. Ethan D. McCardell
      • Offering What Works – A Sermon by the Rev. Ethan D. McCardell
      • Episcopal Trip to Korea and Japan – The Rt. Rev. Brian W. Keith
      • Declarations of Faith
      • New Church Near-Death Experiences – Kesley Coffin
      • Bronze Bust of Emanuel Swedenborg Reinstalled in Chicago – Ed Gyllenhaal
      • Classic New Church Journal Enters the Digital Age
      • Book Review: 12 Miracles of Spiritual Growth – The Rev. Dr. Ray L. Silverman
      • Church News
      • Life Lines
  • May/June 2012(PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: Conjugial Love: Ideal and Real • The Call to Stewardship • Scylla and Charybdis
    • Letter to the Editors
    • Update on Selection Process for the Next Executive Bishop
    • 19th of June Message: John’s Vision of the Lord – The Rt. Rev. Thomas L. Kline
    • The White Horse: The Lord, the Church, and the Understanding of the Word – A Sermon by the Rev. Jay Barry
    • The Gift of Stewardship: A Summary of a Book by the Rev. Chauncey Giles
    • New Church Education: Forming the Vessel, Lighting the Fire – Rachel Glenn
    • Communion – The Rev. John L. Odhner
    • Oh, Sing to the Lord a New Song! – Peter H. Boericke
    • How the Human Was Made Divine, or What Happened to the Body? A Correct New Church Christology – The Rev. Dr. Erik E. Sandstrom
    • Introducing Our Ministers: The Rev. Brian D. Smith
    • Being Naked: Moving Through Shame in Spiritual Growth – The Rev. Brian D. Smith
    • Why Swedenborgians Need to Pay Attention to the Emergent Movement – BMK
    • Impact 365: Opportunities for Outreach – Sasha Silverman
    • Journey Program 2012-13: The Path of Integrity – Office of Outreach
    • Finding Your Roots: New Church Ancestry on Prime-Time National PBS – Ed Gyllenhaal
    • Searching for Mary Magdalene: Book Summary – Soni S. Werner, PhD
    • Searching for Mary Magdalene: Book Review – Emily Jane Lemole
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • March/April 2012(PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • Editorials: Easter Pilgrims • Miracles and the Laws of Nature • A Day to Remember • A Good Starting Point
    • Letters to the Editors
    • Divine Providence and Human Prudence in the Establishment of the Church — Rt. Rev. George de Charms (An Address from 1957)
    • An Enduring Perspective on New Church Education — E. Bruce Glenn (1948)
    • Ezekiel’s Vision of the Dry Bones: Chancellor’s Report — Rt. Rev. Thomas L. Kline
    • The Lilies of the Field — A Sermon by Rev. Walter E. Orthwein
    • Eldergarten 2012: The State of the Church and the Academy — Rt. Rev. Thomas L. Kline
    • Summary of Presentations by the Rt. Rev. Alfred Acton, the Rev. Prescott A. Rogers and Dr. Sylvia Montgomery Shaw — Compiled by Bruce M. Henderson
    • Banquet Address: Between Dream and Destiny, New Church Exceptionalism and American Exceptionalism — Bruce M. Henderson
    • The Human Soul and the Computer — Thomas R. Cooper
    • Introducing Our Ministers: Rev. Scott I. Frazier
    • Bring All Your Firepans — Charter Day Cathedral Address by Rev. Scott I. Frazier
    • MARS: A Platform for Church Growth — Dr. Jane Williams-Hogan
    • A Taste for Sweetness — Alanna Rose
    • Pillars of Our Institutions: People Making a Difference — Judith A. Lopacki
    • In Defense of Man — Fran Raymond
    • Book Reviews
    • Church News
    • Life Lines
  • January/February 2012(PDF)
    Inside this issue:

    • In this Issue
    • Editorials: Who was Emanuel Swedenborg? - Swedenborg and God's Gift
    • Letter to the Editors
    • The Budding New Church in India – Rt. Rev. Brian W. Keith
    • Declaration of Faith – Peter Devassy
    • The Importance of Remembering the Sabbath – Rev. Bradley D. Heinrichs
    • Homosexuality and the Image of God – A Sermon by Rev. Kenneth J. Alden
    • New Church Education on the Edge – Charter Day Banquet Address: The Rev. Dr. Thane Glenn
    • Student Testimonials – Religion 101: Introduction to New Church Doctrines
    • Is There Such a Thing as New Church Science? – Dr. Sherri L. Cooper
    • The ‘Shift’ in Religion and Science – Dr. Gregory L. Baker
    • Introducing Our Ministers: Rev. Charles E. (Chuck) Blair
    • The Partnership Model for a Healthy Church – Rev. Chuck Blair
    • If the Second Coming Happened, Why is There Still so Much Dysfunction in the World? – Rev. Ronald D. (Ronnie) Schnarr
    • Swedenborg and Islam – William L. Weaver
    • Book Review: The Hidden Levels of the Mind: Swedenborg’s Theory of Consciousness – by Rev. Douglas M. Taylor – Reviewed by Dr. Erland J. Brock

2011 Issues

    • November/December 2011(PDF)
      Inside this issue:

      • Editorials: Faith and Opportunity — Ponder These Things in Your Heart — The Man Who Saved the World — Care for the Morrow
      • Letter to the Editors
      • Resurrection Service for Mauro de Padua – The Rev. Andrew J. Heilman
      • Some Aspects of Happiness – The Rt. Rev. Brian W. Keith
      • The Annunciation: The Importance of Mary’s Role in the Lord’s Coming – A sermon by the Rev. Eric H. Carswell
      • The Ball is in Your Court – The Rev. Peter M. Buss Jr.
      • Introducing Our Ministers: The Rev. Mac Frazier
      • A New Christianity – A sermon by the Rev. Mac Frazier
      • Integrating Science and Spirituality – George Gantz
      • Council of the Clergy Meetings – The Rev. Kenneth J. Alden
      • Church News
      • Life Lines
      • Annual Report of the Secretary of the General Church
      • Directory of General Church Clergy
    • September/October 2011(PDF)
      Inside this issue:

      • Editorials: New Church Education: The Hope of the World • What About the ‘What Abouts’ • The Verdict Is . . . (To Be Continued)
      • Letter to the Editors
      • Prayer – A sermon by the Rev. Göran R. Appelgren
      • Concerns About the Holy Supper – The Rev. Michael D. Gladish
      • General Church Translation: Why Are We Doing It? – The Rev. N. Bruce Rogers
      • Introducing Our Ministers: The Rev. Derrick A. M. Lumsden
      • The Sower: Three Ways Not to Hear The Lord – A Sermon by Rev. Derrick A. M. Lumsden
      • A Profound Freedom Supported by New Church Education – The Rev. Eric H. Carswell
      • Hard Decisions – Dr. Gregory L. Baker
      • Thoughts on Giving from a New Church Perspective – Wayne M. Parker
      • Our Own New Church 800-Pound Gorilla – James F. Jungé
      • Dreams – Helen Kennedy
      • General Assembly Workshop Summaries
      • New Church Journey Programs – Burgandy Alden Smith
      • Church News
      • Life Lines
      • New Initiative Aims to Share the Internal Sense Online – Brian David
    • July/August 2011(PDF)
      Inside this issue:

      • Editorials : Is God’s Love Really ‘Unconditional’?—The Reality of Hell—Perspectives on Hell —The Limits That Free
      • Letters to the Editors
      • Helping People Grow Closer to the Lord God Jesus Christ in His Second Coming – Opening Assembly Address by the Rt. Rev. Thomas L. Kline
      • Before I Formed You – A sermon by the Rev. Dr. Andrew Dibb
      • Declarations of Faith and Purpose
      • Finding Satisfaction in Life – Two sermons by the Rev. Jeremy Simons
      • Introducing Our Ministers:The Rev. Dr. Thane Glenn
      • When I Fall, I Will Arise: A sermon by the Rev. Thane Glenn
      • Academy Commencement Address: Esther Yardumian-Smyth
      • The Uneasy Alliance of Faith and Doubt: The Rev. Brian D. Smith
      • A Challenge to Our Commitment to the Church: Al Lindsay
      • What Kind of a Person Do You Want to Be? Raymond David
      • Lifelong Learning: R. Scott Daum
      • Johnny Appleseed: Book Review by the Rev. Coleman Glenn
      • Book Review: True Christianity, Volume 2
    • May June 2011(PDF)
      Inside this issue:

      • 19th of June Message – Rt. Rev. Thomas L. Kline
      • New Church Day
      • The New Church Gift
      • Let’s Pretend
      • The New Church – A sermon by the Rev. Kurt Ho. Asplundh
      • Please Let Me Die – James B. deMaine, MD
      • A Response – Rev. Ethan D. McCardell
      • True Progress – John Pitcairn (1911)
      • Producing Spiritual Offspring: The Greatest Commission – Rev. Garry B. Walsh
      • The Golden Fruit of the Mountain – A parable by the Rev. Stephen D. Cole
      • Introducing Our Ministers: The Rev. James H. (Jay) Barry
      • Change Your Thinking, Change Your Life – A sermon by the Rev. Jay Barry
      • Why I Believe – Jennica S. Nobre
    • March/April 2011(PDF)
      Inside this issue:

      • A Report from the Bishop – Rt. Rev. Thomas L. Kline
      • Selecting an Executive Bishop – Rev. Grant Odhner
      • A Palm Sunday Sermon – Rev. Michael D. Gladish
      • The Easter Garden – Rev. David C. Roth
      • What Is Our Message? Part II – Rev. Derek P. Elphick
      • The Rule of 30 – Rev. James P. Cooper
      • Introducing Our Ministers: The Rev. Mark B. Allais
      • Be Still and Know That I Am God: A sermon by the Rev. Mark Allais
      • Meditate on the Word of God – Alanna Rose
      • What Shall I Render to The Lord? – John Parker
    • January/February 2011(PDF)

Inside this issue:

    • What is Our Message? — Rev. Derek Elphick
    • The Elements of the Holy Supper — Rt. Rev. Thomas L. Kline
    • Civil Responsibility — A sermon by the Rev. Robert Jungé
    • Introducing Our Ministers: The Rev. Coleman Glenn
    • Bitter Waters Made Sweet — A sermon by the Rev. Coleman Glenn
    • New Church Perspective — Rev. Brian Smith
    • Why I Believe in Organized Religion — Rev. Derrick Lumsden
    • Eldergarten 2011 — Bruce Henderson
    • General Church Survey Summary of Results — Alicia Simons
    • Report on the New Church Life Survey
    • Editorials: Do You See an Angel?; Where’s the Joy?; The Comic Side of Atheism; Why Do We Believe in God?
    • Book Reviews: Why Does God Let it Happen?; Swedenborg’s Garden of Verses; Principles in Play

Daily Inspiration

"Angels never pay attention to what someone's body is doing, but rather to the intent from which the body is acting."

Heaven and Hell 61

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