Monday, January 21, 2019 | Reflections
It’s been a long time since unity was fashionable. Divisiveness is more in style. We lament over this, even as we dig our trenches deeper. Think like we do, each faction demands. You’re a bigot if you don’t. You’re a traitor if you don’t. You are not following Jesus...
Sunday, January 20, 2019 | Reflections
The Episcopal Church Foundation helps congregations define and prioritize needs for future ministry and guides them through fundraising to achieve their vision. It is a joy to see the gifts of each community member be revealed in this process: construction tradesmen...
Saturday, January 19, 2019 | Reflections
For years, my spiritual journey focused on adding more—knowledge, Bible reading and study, good works—to grow closer to God. When I inevitably fell short, I felt inadequate. As I became involved in a new-to-me formation program, I saw things in a new...
Friday, January 18, 2019 | General Convention
[Episcopal News Service] Episcopal Diocese of Tennessee Bishop John Bauerschmidt announced Jan. 18 that neighboring Bishop Brian Cole of East Tennessee will “provide pastoral support” to Tennessee couples, clergy and congregations who want to solemnize same-sex...
Friday, January 18, 2019 | Reflections
Today the church remembers the confession of Peter—a brilliant moment for this salty sailor who messed up several other times in his life with Jesus.Peter is sometimes inappropriately enthusiastic. Peter is so sure he can follow Jesus anywhere, but he...
Thursday, January 17, 2019 | Reflections
“I love you, Lord…” my mother’s voice still echoes in those words. Even when dementia clouded her thinking in conversations with people, she prayed with complete clarity.Today’s readings are full of God’s might. In Psalm 18, God thunders out of h….(View this...
Wednesday, January 16, 2019 | Reflections
Early morning is my favorite prayer time, and for twenty-five years, I have prayed along with Forward Day by Day. For the last several years, I have participated in the online community that we refer to as our “FDBD family.”….(View this reading and more...
Tuesday, January 15, 2019 | Reflections
One night, we went boating off the Florida Keys. The engine of our friends’ pontoon softly chugged us away from the lights and noise of the tiki bar and into an eerie mangrove forest. Soon we reached the black vastness of open water and were glad for our experienced...
Monday, January 14, 2019 | Reflections
Singer-songwriter Kris Kristofferson tells an unexpected, powerful experience of forgiveness and release while attending church with fellow artist Connie Smith. In the song “Why Me Lord,” Kristofferson expresses his gratitude and amazement: “Why me Lord? What did I...
Sunday, January 13, 2019 | Reflections
Bread making is working its way into my life. I am discovering wonder in warm water and yeast that transforms gooey flour and oil into puffy, pungent mounds of dough. Lots of chemistry occurs in this first rising, with more goodness to come.In ….(View this...
Saturday, January 12, 2019 | Reflections
For his unshakable witness, the man born blind and healed by washing in the waters of Siloam is kicked out of the temple. We can only imagine how desperately he wants answers. Jesus knows the man is in trouble and seeks him out to reassure and calm him. A preacher...
Friday, January 11, 2019 | General Convention
Bishop William Love of the Diocese of Albany tells General Convention on July 11 during the House of Bishops debate on liturgical marriage-equality Resolution B012 that passing the measure would force him to violate his ordination vows. Photo: ENS screenshot...
Friday, January 11, 2019 | General Convention
After broad consultation with leadership in The Episcopal Church and continued discussions with both the Rt. Rev. William Love of the Episcopal Diocese of Albany and the Episcopal Diocese of Albany Standing Committee, Presiding Bishop Michael Curry has issued the...
Friday, January 11, 2019 | Reflections
Jesus could have ridden a wave of popularity to an earthly kingship. However, his choices demonstrate a commitment to a plan far greater than merely overthrowing the Roman Empire. Defining a vision for the impact of our ministries is crucial to helping us make wise...
Thursday, January 10, 2019 | Reflections
Homer, a police officer, moved and breathed patience. His report writing was methodical: wipe down the desk, assemble writing materials, write, clear off the desk for the next officer, return to patrol. Whether he had arrested a shoplifter or a more malignant...
