Christian writers and readers meet here!

[English Lady]

First....thank you for the welcome!

That part of your comment is something that it took me many, many years to get thru and over; in order to continue the walk I was supposed to be taking, but hadn't been.

I'm no 'there every Sunday' or 'member of the choir' or 'big tither' or all the other things some people think "being a GOOD Christian" must be....but I am at peace with my Maker and Savior. Of all the other drama and trauma of being gay; that one is most likey the most serious one many have to deal with to be able to become whole, or so they can even accept themselves first. Because of a long-standing friendship with the Christian (and gay & legally married to each other) singing duo of 'Jason & deMarco' I more than share their deep concern for the number of gay teen suicides that have roots in Sunday schools and pulpits.

That; among many other things; had me finally decide that the biggest problem with organized religion is that it *IS* organized! Far too often, churches look more like a business, and operate like a political convention with all the back room meetings and plotting & planning; than it does the faith family they claim to be.

Well....that and the fact that I really believe, that thanks to all the various denominations and diametrically opposed interpretations of scripture they come up with; that "organized" religion today, is little more than the modern day version of the Tower of Babel.

Most of them have forgotten the so very basic teachings of the two men that probably were the most successful while spreading the Good News during their walks on the earth....Christ and Billy Graham. Both worked from the premise that it isn't about "looking like a good christian" or "belonging the correct church"; but rather having a PERSONAL relationship and be at peace with God. And then sharing that by LIVING it.

That belief comes from discovering a verse in the Bible, few people realize is there. Most everyone that's ever been to more than 3 church services, knows what John 3:16 says....and can quote it even. But few "good Christians" and their pastors too; can't tell you what the very next verse says....and I believe those two are back-to-back for a reason.

Nope! Not going to quote it....go look it up, if you (the general you) don't know either. That's "homework" for everyone today.


LuvZya all and blessings all day long!

I love my church members. They're some of the most loving people I've ever met and I am a big part of church life. I sing in the choir, was a PPC member and secretary up 'til last week, am on the worship commitee and I read prayers and I'm involved in Sunday School.

I do all that 'cos I like to do it, I love being involved with my church.

But it's becoming harder. My at first understanding vicar is pushing harder and harder for me to give up my writing. We had a meeting just after my article in the Independent in which I found out some things I really wasn't happy with.

Like he's anti gay wedding, in fact he signed a petition against it. He's worried about a massive backlash from the community over my writing (I am a governor in our church school too) and really would just prefer it if I dropped the whole thing.

To him, it's a sin. And he used (as I knew he would) Jesus telling Mary Magdalene 'Go and sin no more' as an example for me.

Except I'm not shagging about while being married. Different kettle 'o' fish there.

Anyway, long story short I'm feeling much less comfortable in my little church family now. Especially as the vicar told me the concerns of other church members he's talked to about me. I knew these people knew, it didn't bother me but to know they talk about me behind my back and not one of them has brought said concerns to me face to face does hurt a bit.

So I saw something on the national news last Saturday about a set of Bishops saying that Gay marriage is a blessing. I looked up more and found the Inclusive Church movement.

http://www.inclusive-church.org.uk/

Oh, it made my day. I wrote an email to the head honcho there and got a lovely reply a few days ago. It was so welcoming. I told him about my writing and my hardships in church and he was even nicer. Saying what a gift I have and how my vicar obviously has bigger issues than my writing that need addressing.

I've found an Inclusive church which although isn't exactly down the road it's commutable too. I'm going to see if I can get there sometime soon. I emailed the vicar -I'm not going to be caught out this time- and told him up front about my writing.

He was so encouraging it brought a tear to my eye, truly. He spoke of the song of songs and what a great gift I'd been given.

So yes. I know what you mean. The church needs to read beyond John3:16 and onto the next verse and put it into action. It will make a big difference in the world! It's made a big difference to me to see it in action.

 

[English Lady]

I haven’t been on Lit much lately and probably won’t be on for a while again, but I’m sure glad I checked today. I have been wondering how baby Alice was. Thank you so much dear English Lady for giving us an update.

No problem. I was thrilled when my mum told me the news and wanted to pass it on.

I've heard today of another little one in need of prayer.

Amelia is only 17 months old and is in hospital with Leukaemia. Please keep her and her family in your prayers.

 

[estragon]

English Lady, Will do. As for churches and clergy, and people with hang-ups generally, remember Matthew 10:23: "And when they shall persecute you in this city, flee into another."

 

[HeatherVivant]

This may be off-topic, but I'm seeking questions...questions you might have about the erotic lives of Christian wives that I can try to answer through my erotic fiction. I'm not so much looking for plot bunnies as I am interested in what intrigues you about the secrets held in the hearts of women of faith, and how they resolve desires with teaching. I see that tension as a means of creating fiction that answers questions and arouses at the same time. English Lady's struggles with her vicar's opinions come to mind, and seem to be an example of a conflict worth exploring. What other tensions and questions are out there?

If you've got anything you think I should explore, respond here, PM me, or shoot me a message via other channels.

 

[English Lady]

English Lady, Will do. As for churches and clergy, and people with hang-ups generally, remember Matthew 10:23: "And when they shall persecute you in this city, flee into another."

Thanks for the verse, estragon.

This may be off-topic, but I'm seeking questions...questions you might have about the erotic lives of Christian wives that I can try to answer through my erotic fiction. I'm not so much looking for plot bunnies as I am interested in what intrigues you about the secrets held in the hearts of women of faith, and how they resolve desires with teaching. I see that tension as a means of creating fiction that answers questions and arouses at the same time. English Lady's struggles with her vicar's opinions come to mind, and seem to be an example of a conflict worth exploring. What other tensions and questions are out there?

If you've got anything you think I should explore, respond here, PM me, or shoot me a message via other channels.

I don't think anything is off topic in here. So ask away!

 

[matriarch]

I love my church members. They're some of the most loving people I've ever met and I am a big part of church life. I sing in the choir, was a PPC member and secretary up 'til last week, am on the worship commitee and I read prayers and I'm involved in Sunday School.

I do all that 'cos I like to do it, I love being involved with my church.

But it's becoming harder. My at first understanding vicar is pushing harder and harder for me to give up my writing. We had a meeting just after my article in the Independent in which I found out some things I really wasn't happy with.

Like he's anti gay wedding, in fact he signed a petition against it. He's worried about a massive backlash from the community over my writing (I am a governor in our church school too) and really would just prefer it if I dropped the whole thing.

To him, it's a sin. And he used (as I knew he would) Jesus telling Mary Magdalene 'Go and sin no more' as an example for me.

Except I'm not shagging about while being married. Different kettle 'o' fish there.

Anyway, long story short I'm feeling much less comfortable in my little church family now. Especially as the vicar told me the concerns of other church members he's talked to about me. I knew these people knew, it didn't bother me but to know they talk about me behind my back and not one of them has brought said concerns to me face to face does hurt a bit.

So I saw something on the national news last Saturday about a set of Bishops saying that Gay marriage is a blessing. I looked up more and found the Inclusive Church movement.

http://www.inclusive-church.org.uk/

Oh, it made my day. I wrote an email to the head honcho there and got a lovely reply a few days ago. It was so welcoming. I told him about my writing and my hardships in church and he was even nicer. Saying what a gift I have and how my vicar obviously has bigger issues than my writing that need addressing.

I've found an Inclusive church which although isn't exactly down the road it's commutable too. I'm going to see if I can get there sometime soon. I emailed the vicar -I'm not going to be caught out this time- and told him up front about my writing.

He was so encouraging it brought a tear to my eye, truly. He spoke of the song of songs and what a great gift I'd been given.

So yes. I know what you mean. The church needs to read beyond John3:16 and onto the next verse and put it into action. It will make a big difference in the world! It's made a big difference to me to see it in action.

Great post EL, well done you! I know you were thinking about this, and I thinks it's fabulous that you've found what appears to be ther best church for you. As for the vicar in your current church....I'm afraid he has a lot of growing up to do, and a lot of hangups to get over.

Good luck, and don't you dare stop writing.

 

[English Lady]

Great post EL, well done you! I know you were thinking about this, and I thinks it's fabulous that you've found what appears to be ther best church for you. As for the vicar in your current church....I'm afraid he has a lot of growing up to do, and a lot of hangups to get over.

Good luck, and don't you dare stop writing.

I'm definitely going to check the church out, it does sound really good.

My current vicar is a good guy but he needs to learn a few lessons and as you say grow up. I have hope for him, though. There's always hope.

And I'm definitely NOT giving up writing. I've had a revelation on hat recently. It's the path I've got to keep walking, it's my niche to fill.

 

[oggbashan]

...

My current vicar is a good guy but he needs to learn a few lessons and as you say grow up. I have hope for him, though. There's always hope.

And I'm definitely NOT giving up writing. I've had a revelation on hat recently. It's the path I've got to keep walking, it's my niche to fill.

It sounds as if he needs another letter from me.

Keep writing, and keep supporting this thread.

 

[estragon]

Prayer Request

An author for whom I copy edit, and who is also a great favorite, DG Hear, MFG, has a health issue, which I hope will be dealt with shortly. I am praying for him, and ask that any of his fans who visit here do likewise.

 

[Mostera1]

LunaEroticaMystica

Luna really needs your thoughts and prayers. I am sad to report she is not doing very well. Please, please, please keep her close.

In His name

 

[estragon]

Mostera, very sad news. I will keep praying for her. Please add MoJo48 to your prayers.

 

[English Lady]

It sounds as if he needs another letter from me.

Keep writing, and keep supporting this thread.

He has mentioned your letter a time or two but I'm afraid no amount of letters will make him less stubborn. *LOL*

And I have no plans to stop, even if it would make his life easier if I did.

An author for whom I copy edit, and who is also a great favorite, DG Hear, MFG, has a health issue, which I hope will be dealt with shortly. I am praying for him, and ask that any of his fans who visit here do likewise.

Aw, I will keep him in my prayers.

Luna really needs your thoughts and prayers. I am sad to report she is not doing very well. Please, please, please keep her close.

In His name

Certainly. *hugs*

Mostera, very sad news. I will keep praying for her. Please add MoJo48 to your prayers.

Will do, estragon.

I've got a family for prayer for you. One one my daughter's friends at school has an older brother called Chris. He's 19 and has just been drafted to Afghanistan. I saw his mum the other day and she is distraught, bless her. I know it will be a hard time for the whole family right now so if you could keep Chris and his family in your prayers i would appreciate it. Thank you.

 

[estragon]

Certainly, have added Chris and his family to my personal prayer list. Delighted to read on another thread that LunaEroticaMystica is doing better; I think "keep praying, my friends" is a lot better than Mr. Dos Equis' "stay thirsty".

 

[English Lady]

Just a quick post to aks for prayers for my family, especially for my mum and her sister. My Nanna Elsie died yesterday. Very Suddenly. She was laughing with the doctors and nurses one moment and the next she was gone.

She had an aneurysm and it burst.

But she was laughing 'til the end which is my Nanna all over. So prayers for the family would be appreciate, thanks.

 

[DG Hear]

Just a quick post to aks for prayers for my family, especially for my mum and her sister. My Nanna Elsie died yesterday. Very Suddenly. She was laughing with the doctors and nurses one moment and the next she was gone.

She had an aneurysm and it burst.

But she was laughing 'til the end which is my Nanna all over. So prayers for the family would be appreciate, thanks.

So sorry to hear, but she went out happy. That's the way I would want it. You are in my prayers.
God Bless
DG

 

[estragon]

EnglishLady, will certainly pray for you and your family.

DG Hear, MFG, praying for you too.

 

[estragon]

Have heard from DG Hear, MFG, that the surgery went well and he is doing well. Thanks to all for their thoughts and prayers.

 

[English Lady]

Thanks for the prayers, folks.

 

[mmata]

I honestly thought I was one of the only people struggling with this! Thanks for making the thread!

 

[topace]

Greetings English_Lady and fellow thread posters/readers.

I'm a former Christian myself, and I am now a spiritual guy only - not religious at all. I grew up in a Christian home and I know my parents would not be pleased at all if they found out I was a member here, or even was reading a story from this site. Sex is very taboo to them unless you are married - thank God for the internet and books that explain it.

Soon after I got my own place, I slowly stopped going to church until I quit going - mostly due to work, but also because I felt uncomfortable in any church. I still feel that way, so I didn't even go to the community Good Friday or my parents's church's Christmas Eve service this past year. I avoid talking about what I am doing at their place so that the peace will stay - anything like that tends to head towards an arguement unless we discuss work and my schedule. As far as I care, what I do at home and from my own computers is my own business, and no one needs to know unless I want to tell 'em.

I have reconciled what I believe with what I do - as long as I harm no one in any matter, then it's okay for me to do it. Keeps me away from mischief and trouble.

*takes off to find something fun to do*

 

[estragon]

For any who've been wondering, English Lady is very busy running her blog and publishing stories commercially. So she's been away from Lit for a while. But all's well with her.

 

[curl4ever]

For any who've been wondering, English Lady is very busy running her blog and publishing stories commercially. So she's been away from Lit for a while. But all's well with her.

Good to hear that she's doing well!

Thanks for the update,
- curl

 

[MaddieKim]

Prayers for Pat

Dear Lit friends,

I know I haven’t been on Literotica much lately; real life has gotten in the way and this summer has been exceptionally busy.

I’m on now because a dear friend needs your prayers. Pat (Persephone9906), the twin of my heart and the editor on my last 3 stories, has been diagnosed with congestive heart failure and things are not looking good. The condition was discovered when basically overnight she developed lymphoedema. The swelling is somewhat under control but the infection in her legs is not responding to any of the several antibiotics they have her on.

Not long ago her sister Debbie was on our prayer list and she is doing very well and is back to work.

Pat has another doctor’s appointment on Tuesday. Perhaps with all our prayers, she’ll get better news than at the last appointment.

Thanks in advance for your prayers for Pat,
Maddie

 

[curl4ever]

...
Thanks in advance for your prayers for Pat,
Maddie

Praying with you.
- curl

 

[MaddieKim]

Update on Pat

Thanks to everyone who had Pat on their prayer lists. Please continue to pray for her. She still has the infection in her legs and they continue to be red and swollen. Also on top of her other problems, she has been told she is diabetic.

Also Debbie, Pat’s sister who was doing so well after her surgery, has had a setback. Among other things, she can’t keep any food down.

On a positive note, Pat's book on Amazon – Second Chances under the name Marie Everett – has had modest sales. I’m so excited for her.

Maddie