Author Archives: reallifepastor

Next Friday is my first anniversary as your pastor.  What a year we’ve had!  As we continue getting to know each other, I want to share with you some more of my MO as a pastor.       A big part of … Continue reading →

During a sabbatical in 2014, I drove from a monastery in Indiana to a music camp in New Hampshire.  After crossing Ohio, I took a right at Erie, Pennsylvania, then began the long trek across the state of New York. … Continue reading →

When I made the switch from the Baptists to the UCC, there was only one theological issue I had to work through–infant baptism.  How many Baptists do we have in the room?  Disciples?  Both Baptists and Disciples practice believer’s baptism.  … Continue reading →

I’d like to start this morning by passing around the offering plates.  Be not afraid!  We aren’t taking up two offerings this morning.  And we’re not moving the collection of gifts to a different place in the service.  (Out of … Continue reading →

(Song:  “Canticle of the Turning”) IS the world about to turn?  Doesn’t really seem like it, does it?  The rich keep getting richer; the poor keep getting poorer.  Tyrants still rule, money still rules, the hungry poor still weep for … Continue reading →

In every church I’ve served, the big Christmas music program has happened on the third Sunday of Advent–Joy Sunday.  The scheduling has been more logistical than liturgical.  The third Sunday in Advent gives you the maximum number of rehearsals before … Continue reading →

Today we hear Jesus’ last words to the crowds before his death.  It’s a familiar passage.  In the context of a parable, the righteous are invited into paradise because, the fictional king says, “I was hungry and you gave me … Continue reading →

A woman is barren, prays for a child, then—at last!– conceives.  In response, she offers a beautiful song of thanksgiving to God.  A great story!  Hope-filled!  Miraculous!  Inspiring! Annoying. Don’t get me wrong.  I’m happy for Hannah.  She really wanted … Continue reading →

Before I started hanging out with the nuns, I had an idealistic understanding of community life.  BNE–Before the Nun Era–I believed community to be a place where everyone  is welcome and gets along with each other.  As one of my … Continue reading →

Something I said a couple weeks ago might have puzzled you.  When Spence announced the sessions on church finances, I called the first class “fun.”  I also said finance committee meetings are among the most fun meetings I’ve attended since … Continue reading →