Like the Ten Commandments, the Beatitudes have such a revered place in Christian faith that in previous centuries some churches had the texts inscribed on their inside walls or interpreted in stained glass. But what do they mean, especially for today? Terms such as ‘the poor in spirit’ or ‘persecuted for righteousness’ sake’, words such as ‘mercy’ and ‘meek’ have changed in meaning since King James authorised an English translation of the Bible. The Beatitudes can be regarded as the sayings of Jesus worth committing to memory, or nuggets of spiritual dynamism worthy
of constant exploration. It is the latter option which we will be pursuing in this retreat.
Who's speaking?
John Bell
JOHN BELL is a Resource Worker with The Iona Community, who lectures, preaches and conducts seminars across the denominations. He is a hymn writer, author and occasional broadcaster, but retains a primary passion for congregational song. John is based in Glasgow and works with his colleagues in the areas of music, worship and spirituality.
