Are your beliefs “Beyond the Pale”?
A pale is a stake which creates an enclosure, so this expression “beyond the pale” means beyond proper limits. In our case it could mean beyond the proper limits of faith.
Very recently I visited an exhibition of the work of Robert Lenkiewicz at the Royal West of England Academy in Bristol. I imagine his works could be described as “beyond the pale”. Not because of his actual paintings, but because his focus was on those in society whom we often judge as such. Vagrants, alcoholics and the mentally ill etc. Robert was unusual as an artist because he was not interested in the art world as such. He was a natural outsider who cared less about the opinions of others than for “the person in the street”. Often penniless himself, he created a shelter in Plymouth to house the homeless and socially rejected. A real radical.
Are we Unitarians radical enough in both thought and deed? One comment heard at our Annual Meetings was that while we spend much time talking, discussing and sometimes even [heaven forbid!] arguing about what we do and don't believe, we are preventing ourselves from doing, being and living our faith.
That said, I still believe one of the most important things our communities have to offer each other is the freedom to explore our own spiritual path, not to keep it to ourselves as individuals, but to share with each other by building a depth of relationship. From that place we can be better empowered to act out our faith.
Some years ago several of you participated in the Unitarian course: “Build Your Own Theology”. This is a programme designed to help individuals understand, develop and articulate their values. I also believe it is a great way for us to get to know each other better. We are planning to hold this course in the Autumn at Unitarian Meeting, Brunswick Square, so why not come along and find out if your beliefs are “beyond the pale”! Please contact me if you are interested in finding out more, including which evenings would suit you best.
In the meantime, I invite you to ponder on this quote from Hosea Ballou:
“There is one inevitable criterion touching matters of religious faith: can you reduce it to practice? If not, have none of it”
With love..........Lindy
