Beloveds,
It’s that time of year again: Trinity Sunday. Known as one of the Core Theological Mysteries, it asks us to adhere to a profound spiritual truth that transcends human reason and must be divinely revealed. It represents concepts that believers accept through trust and spiritual insight rather than strict logical proof. And yet, ever since the introduction of the concept in the 4th century after agreements made at the Councils of Nicaea and Constantinople, we try to rationalize it.
And every year I discover something new. For instance, the iris is a symbol of the Holy Trinity that evolved organically during the Middle Ages, primarily stemming from its structural, three-petal design and its stylized variation, the fleur-de-lis which became a herald of the French monarchy … and the New Orleans Saints … and the International Scouting Movement.
From one single sturdy stem, three petals represent the spiritual realm: God the Parent, God the Child, and the Holy Spirit as well as the earthly virtues associated with divine grace, such as Faith, Hope, and Charity (Love). And there’s more!
I look forward to seeing you Sunday at 10 am on 1130 Balclutha, Zoom, or Livestream as we sing a rousing rendition of “Holy! Holy! Holy!”, and I reflect upon Matthew 28:16-20, aka “The Great Commission”. Invite a friend to engage the mystery.
Love,
Rev. Michael