Institutions are indispensable. We cannot get along in our complex world without the order, stability and benefits supplied by our governmental, religious, educational, financial and social institutions. But as we all know, institutions are a mixed bag. They are necessary and they do much good,...
My church is getting a new organ. It’s not a “new-new” organ, but it’s new to us. Another church in our area is being torn down to make way for affordable housing. That church’s congregation will move back in to the new high rise once...
Dear Friends, I was on vacation and “off the grid,” so to speak, when the tragic events of Orlando unfolded eleven days ago. Like many of you, the more I heard the more horrified I became, and because I was away I did not have my...
I don’t remember hearing the word “community” used or talked about very much as I was growing up. Even during college and later, as I launched into adulthood, I recall the emphasis being primarily about the individual, and that was true whether the issue at...
Someday I really should write a book detailing some of the remarkable experiences that happen to me as a pastor. Part of it, of course, is perspective. It has been said that we can either live as if nothing in life is a miracle or...
We had such an amazing day last week and these photos really do tell the story. Our projects included: Garden project at the elementary school next door Nursing home visit and singalong Making sandwiches for the homeless Packing hygiene kits for Presbyterian Disaster Relief Stuffing "Mended Heart" pillows for heart surgery patients Trash...
We had a glorious Easter Sunday service at Calvary, as I hope you did wherever you are. This Sunday we are putting into practice what we proclaimed on Easter: we are being resurrection people by serving our neighbors in very concrete and practical ways. We...
Friends, A couple of years ago one of my colleagues shared a prayer with me that I have now read and re-read dozens of times. While it is a prayer specifically on behalf of pastors, I think it offers something for everyone as we celebrate Easter...
I have no discernible athletic ability. I go to the gym most mornings and suffer through enough cardio to keep reasonably healthy. For many moons I kept waiting and hoping I’d begin to enjoy working out, like some of my gym mates seem to do....
Lent is a season during which I find that having a “traveling companion” is very helpful. To that end, I am pleased to offer some book recommendations. Two that I have used in previous years and that are designed as day-by-day readings are Wondrous Encounters...