Freedom
Sermon given on October 3, 2010 by The Rev. Jon Roberts
Good Shepherd Episcopal, Venice, Florida
Title
THE LIGHT
BLACK & WHITE XP Ministries
Bringing together the Beauty, Wonder & Awe Of God's Creation through Storytelling, Prayers & Art
Jesus Christ revealed yesterday, today and tomorrow
Since 2012
About
Black & White XP Ministries is a not-for-profit, 501 (c)(3) and whose operation is solely managed through the generous donations of our members and guests. Please consider making a donation through our website.
"A wall deserves a painting
One that is fair and true.
Let its light speak of love,
About the life between me and you.
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With a nail and a cross I painted mine,
where my colors bled right through;
so paint that painting of love,
even one in Black & White, will do."
Jon Roberts, Priest
"A man's reach should always exceed his grasp, or what's a heaven for."
Robert Browning, Poet
History & Vision
Black & White XP Ministries was formed in 2012 as a non-profit, 501 (c)(3) for the purpose of outreach, bringing together the beauty, wonder and awe of God's creation through, mainly the telling of the story of Jesus Christ. As found in the ancient manuscript of the Bible and upheld in the Church setting, we find there is no story so compelling than this, of just how God so loves the world.
Such teachings and preaching are obviously part of the Christian message and the church landscape, but through the visionary effort of one particular member of the clergy, "Father" Jon Roberts, BWXP made an appeal to tell the story of God's creation on social media. In 2020, with the Covid pandemic, more church leaders turned to streaming on social media channels like never before, thereby flooding the digital market with similar offerings. BWXP double-downed on enhancing its sermons with artwork and video editing, and such work is now held in complete posterity as a complete library of the Gospel, "The Good News," to supplement what is proclaimed in the Church and what is studied at home. People today claim to be highly spiritual and yet equally irreligious. The reasons for why people may not see the inherent value of being in a worshipping community are varied but we cannot afford to lose the validity and importance of the purpose of a local church and what it can offer the neighboring community. The bridge between the church and those who may be outside of church is necessary. BWXP, as an independent "ministry" and non-profit, that complements the church and aims to be a resource. BWXP aims to reach the non-churched as well.
We are excited to announce that an effort is underway to provide video courses, where the biblical stories as illustrated by various artists, and given reflection through narrative. This visual art library is like none other, found only here at BWXP. Throughout the years, Fr. Roberts has always searched out and linked Christian art with his sermons. This library is being presented as a unique online "Gallery" with details organized to help people have a a visual accompaniment to the musical and sermonic presentations. How often do you go to a museum, see a magnificent painting about a story in the Bible but do not appreciate it fully because you do not know the context. Within the gallery, we will launch these short videos so join our site so that you get all the updates. Commissioning future artwork is also available as Fr. Roberts, an artist himself, intends to begin an illustrated legacy in 2023 with "The Crossing", an extensive, framed oil painting of the Exodus event found in the Bible, when the Hebrew slaves, released by Pharaoh, dared to trust in God and cross the Red Sea.
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In addition to unique homiletical storytelling of the Gospel of Jesus, and the artistic illustrations which support those stories, BWXP presents a very personal offering to the public for prayers. Interceding on behalf of others, giving ear to those needs that may exist in the hearts and minds of so many, is a special approach to online ministry. We welcome all to share your prayer requests so that we can live up to our commitment to love our neighbors as ourselves.
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Whether the Gospel is appreciated in sermon, art work, or taking part in educational teachings the goal of BWXP is engagement and learning about bringing together the Beauty, Wonder and Awe of God's creation through such offerings. Feel free to join us.
You may submit all inquiries to blackwhitexp@gmail.com and we promise to give response as soon as possible.
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