"Looking for a Bigger Jesus" 

For many people, Jesus' primary feature is that of being gentle. Although this flies in the face of the Gospel, it is preserved in songs and artwork which depict the kind of passive savior who is unlikely to inspire radical discipleship. In this workshop, John Bell will engage participants in looking at moments in the Gospels which provide a much fuller understanding of Jesus and at songs from far and near which are an antidote to the more soporific ditties that are common fare in most worshipping communities. Music will include songs from the Iona Community and beyond -- including yet-to-be-published compositions!

John Bell is an ordained minister in the Church of Scotland and a member of the Iona Community. Composer, author, and BBC broadcaster, Rev. Bell has produced many collections of original hymns, songs, and liturgies through Wild Goose Resource Group, including two collections of songs of the World Church. He lectures throughout the world and is primarily concerned with the renewal of congregational worship at the grass roots level. A number of his compositions, including “The Summons,” are found in The United Methodist hymnal supplement, The Faith We Sing.

For a taste of John Bell in action, check out excerpts from the Living the Questions series, "Singing the Unsung," featuring John Bell in both the United States and Scotland. 

Excerpts from "Singing the Unsung" with John Bell from Living the Questions on Vimeo.