Holy Eve, Mother of All
Eve, The Mother of All by Br. Robert Lentz
Has there ever been a story so mysterious, so strange, so historically punishing, and yet so alluring as that of Eve and Adam in the Garden of Eden? We’re obsessed with that apple (checked the back of your iPhone recently?) and the mouthy snake, not to mention the angels at the gate with their fiery swords and eyeball wings.
The Catholic church, among others, has made it a global pastime to punish women for Eve’s supposed ‘sin’ and even the humble innocent snake is viewed as an agent of the Devil, whoever that is.
But, you know me, I’m not satisfied with that story. It feels a bit simplistic, not to mention very convenient for ye olde patriarchy. So I went to my favorite teachers for the ancient scriptures; the Desert Ammas and Abbas of the first and second century. And boy oh boy, do they have a different story!
I’ll give you a preview. The Garden of Eden is more ancient, more multidimensional, and wayyyyy more supportive of Eve and Adam’s journey than we’re led to believe. The snake? Not who you think it is. The ‘God’ in the garden? Let’s just say YHWH might not be the one. And Eve’s sin? Well, we all know by now that women’s ‘sins’ are usually just thoughts and behavior that doesn’t comform to an oppressive patriarchy. Get that apple, Eve!
So why a preview and not the whole story? Because I want you to come to my sermon this Sunday! That’s right, I’ll be preaching live at First Unitarian Society of Denver or you can stream it and join the fun from across the world.
I promise, this will be the most fun, the most delightful, and perhaps the most liberatory version of the Garden of Eden you’ve ever heard. And as a bonus, there may even be a few tips and tricks to get back there today. Can’t wait to see you there!
IN-PERSON SERMON: ENTERING THE GARDEN OF EDEN
Sunday Morning Service In Person at 10am
First Unitarian Society of Denver - 1400 N. Lafayette St. Denver CO 80218 or Online
No sign-up is required to attend in person. At this time, masks are optional but highly encouraged for those who might have been exposed, might be at higher risk for severe illness, or have weakened immune systems.
Our service is on Facebook, Youtube, and Zoom (meeting ID is 466-677-668 and the password is 454623).
