Author Archives: reallifepastor

The past two weeks, we’ve spent some time with I Corinthians 12, where Paul explains his Mr. Potato Head theology:  “Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit…To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the … Continue reading →

Since I became your pastor in 2001, we’ve accomplished a lot together.  We’ve lived in to our ONA identity in some beautiful ways, including celebrating our first Transgender Sunday last November.  In 2001, I never would have dreamed that I … Continue reading →

Today, Pilgrimage hosted the delightful singer-songwriter, Bobby Jo Valentine.  This was Bobby Jo’s second visit to Pilgrimage.  (His first happened while I was on sabbatical.)  So wonderful to hear a full-on concert at our very own church!  I’m kind of … Continue reading →

Have you heard?  Last September, NASA announced the discovery of water on Mars!  My first thought when I heard the news?  I’m sure this is where your mind went, too:  “When’s the first Martian baptism?”  The next logical question, of … Continue reading →

I took these pictures yesterday–Epiphany!  A few thoughts…. This first one looks like a hand with a paintbrush adding color to the wall.  The lighted sculpture above (it contains a dove) represents God’s Spirit. Colorful Creator, indeed! Below — Reality … Continue reading →

  My article from the January 2016 Pilgrim’s Progress newsletter.             A couple of weeks ago in Sunday School, I surprised myself by saying that I find God in color. In 2008 when we began planning for the renovation of … Continue reading →

We do love this story, don’t we?  We hear it every Epiphany, which technically is Wednesday, but which we’re celebrating today.  It’s the story about the magi following a star, finding the child to whom the star points them, and … Continue reading →

At the beginning of Advent, a clergy colleague said, “Easter and resurrection?  Oh, anybody can believe in that.  Believing in ‘Peace on earth, good will to all?’  That’s hard work!” Peace on earth, good will to all….It is getting harder … Continue reading →

When I received this month’s issue of National Geographic and read the title aloud:  “Mary, the Most Powerful Woman in the World,” my husband remarked, “But isn’t Mary supposed to be humble?”  I’m not sure, but I think he might … Continue reading →

(Intro to today’s Christmas Music program at church.) An organization called Faiths United to Prevent Gun Violence (http://marchsabbath.org/) has declared this weekend Gun Violence Prevention Sabbath Weekend.  The dates they suggest—Dec. 10 – 14—are significant.  December 10, 1948 is the … Continue reading →