Words for Worship: A Collection of Prayers
A Prayer for when Natural Disasters strike: Holy God, You created the earth, and it is Good. You created the universe, and it is Good. At times we blame and curse the universe for the bad things that happen; we blame and curse the earth for the natural disasters we face. God, call us away from cursing into lives of blessing. Help us to share out of … Read →
Youth
When I was interviewing for Field Ed placements in seminary, I spoke with a female pastor who left me with this reflection on her ministry: “I have blessed every gray hair on my head, because it has meant one less battle I’ve had to fight.” Although I believe this pastor was speaking from the best of her experience, her words horrified me. As a … Read →
The Real Pastors of the Midwest
I want my own reality show. I’ve not made this a secret anywhere…I think my life would make a great reality show. Maybe I’ve watched one too many episodes of the Real Housewives of Anywhere, but I know exactly the roles that need to be filled. The matriarch, the hot mess, the young one, the voice of reason… And you know that in every season, … Read →
Dribble and Dunk: A Practical Guide to Baptismal Logistics
There's no way around it: ministry is a career and calling that involves a strange assortment of skills, not the least of which is the logistics of baptism. Whether your tradition baptizes infants, young children, teens, or adults; whether you sprinkle, pour, or immerse; the practical implications are mind boggling. Even if you had a seminary worship … Read →