Beginning to learn to be a pastor
Shortly after his ordination, a home visit unexpectedly throws a new pastor in the deep end.
On the spirituality of quarantine
How can we be “witnesses to the ends of the earth” right now? I have found some help from St. Benedict and St. Gregory.
A glimpse of how heaven sees worship
On World Communion Day, I sat in the balcony. The view was stunning.
A wedding reception that felt like Cana
We drank wine, danced with abandon, and caught a glimpse of grace.
Everyone in ministry gets their feelings hurt
Congregations aren’t paradise. They’re communities in which we constantly hurt each other’s feelings.
My mother was my first theology teacher
Now it’s my turn to hold the memory of faith for her.
Church buildings aren’t just buildings
The church is made of people. But they need a home.
Funerals make me miss being a parish pastor
Standing at the graveside with the last lingering family members, time seems thick.
Having faith in God is better than being certain about God
We don't need arguments from the pulpit. We need living water.
“You can be whatever you wish” and other myths
After college, my friends and I chased fulfillment like it was the Holy Grail.
Listening all the way into the pulpit
The preacher maintains a sacred conversation between God and the congregation.
Gentleness isn’t fragile
Most social problems are rooted in the failure of the strong to be gentle with others.
