This weekend I had the opportunity to walk down memory lane in some very tangible ways. On Friday night, most of my family gathered together at Church of the Saviour United Methodist to celebrate my dad’s retirement from ministry. It felt familiar and distant all at the same time. We came to this church in … More From Where I Came
The last time I stood behind that lectern was the spring of 2013, just a few months before I’d graduate from Christian Theological Seminary with a Masters of Divinity degree. I was standing there because I’d been asked to preach in Chapel. That’s often how these things happen. I don’t necessarily need to preach or … More Past, Present & Future
After taking a few months off of attending a worship service each week, I found my way to a new church last November. I was hopeful that I would find a new church community – new friends, new classes, new worship. Although I liked the pastors, I never really made a connection with that church … More Going Home
I met him when he was in elementary school. His parents were very excited about the youth program I was leading and couldn’t wait for him to join in on all the fun. The summer before he started sixth grade, I went to his house to learn more about him – what he enjoys, what … More New Dreams: T’s Quilt
Before we even step outside the excitement builds. She knows what’s coming – the movement, the smells, the sights, the sounds. She’s eager to experience it all! Call to Worship We walk to the back of the yard to check out the flowerbed. Crocus – purple and white. Some frost bitten from an early bloom. … More A Variation on Church
Sunday was a busy day in the life of the church – especially those that follow the liturgical calendar. In the United Methodist church we celebrate Holy Communion on the first Sunday of the month – so there was that. It was also Epiphany – the celebration of the three wise men visiting baby Jesus. … More Torn
I have so much to process from the last seven days. It’s possible I’ll go on another mission trip with Appalachia Service Project and North UMC someday, but for now this was my last trip. My 9th ASP. I think my 18th or 19th weeklong youth ministry trip. It was a big week for me … More Bridges
I preached this sermon today at North United Methodist Church, the place I’ve called my church and my job for the past nine years. This sermon is a reflection on the Parable of the Sower as well as my time in ministry with the youth, parents, volunteers and congregation of North UMC. +++ Luke 8:4-8 … More Seeds, Fruit and Roots – A Sermon
When I chose Gratitude to be my one word for this year, I really had no idea how appropriate it would be. I initially chose it because I wanted to be happier with my life and by focusing on gratitude I figured my attitude and perspective would change. I was right about that. Each morning … More One Word Check-In
The younger kids in the youth group were 2 or 3 years old when I started working at North. So, most of the youth group don’t have a lot of memories of church without me somewhere in them. Don’t get me wrong – I am not under any illusion that North won’t be North without … More Teach
