But, shortly after a "Contemplative Eucharist" was underway at Grace Cathedral last evening on Nob Hill, it was announced that Archbishop Desmond Tutu would be participating in a Sermon next Sunday (March 6th) at 11 a.m.
After noting that the Nobel Peace Prize-winner would be attending a closed-door session on Thursday night, the Reverend was quick to warn the parishioners about the potential pitfalls of trotting in late next week.
"Arrive early! The pews will probably be filled at Grace Cathedral," she urged with a broad smile on her cherubic face.
Archbishop Desmond Tutu was born in 1931 in Klerksdorp (Transvaal).
The Holy Man's father was a teacher.
Not surprisingly, Tutu first trained as a teacher at Pretoria Bantu Normal College.
After graduating from the University of South Africa in 1954, Desmond toiled as a high school teacher, before his studies on theology commenced.
The charismatic leader was ordained as a priest in 1960.
From 1967 to 1972 - Tutu taught theology in South Africa - before returning to England for three years as the assistant director of a theological institute in London (England).
In 1975, the highly spiritual soul was appointed the Dean of St. Mary's Cathedral in Johannesburg (the first black to hold the position).
Tutu later became General Secretary of the South African Council of Churches - where he formulated his opinions on the importance of observing "democratic just societies without racial division" - which touted:
1. equal civil rights for all
2. the abolition of South Africa's passport laws
3. a common system of education
4. the cessation of forced deportation from South Africa to the so-called "homelands"
The South African Council of Churches is a contact organization for the churches of South Africa and functions as a National Committee for the World Council of Churches.
By the way, if you've never attended an evening service at Grace Cathedral, give it the old college try!
Last night's scripture-reading was particularly uplifting.
In particular, I found that the "sounding" of the bell" - which chimed periodically throughout the service - resonated to the core of my being.
The "Alleluia" refrain - sung to perfection by the choir and parishioners - caused hearts, minds, and spirits to soar joyously!
The Contemplative Eucharist is calendared for Sundays @ 6 p.m.
Background Feature
Post: 01/20/2008
http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2008/01/grace-cathedralsan-francisco-house-of.html
See 'ya there!
(God Willing)
LOCATION
Grace Cathedral
1100 California Street
San Francisco, CA
94108
415.749.6300
info@gracecathedral.org
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