Is there something we are not experiencing now (online)? If so, what is “it”? Given that “it” comes with potential costs, how do we decide if and when “it” is worth it?
For Elders Who Are Facilitating Gender Inclusion, Coronavirus Brought You a Gift
As if things couldn’t get any weirder, it seems that coronavirus is proving to be quite the surprise on-ramp for gender inclusion.
“The Plague” by Albert Camus
As you are forming your own response to the situation we find ourselves in, there is no other book that presents the challenge in a more formidable way. (Fiction)
COVID-19: A Lament
I believe that this moment is inviting us to lament. Why? Because God is present in our reality and invites us to be present.
Uncertainty and Hope
We believe that God is faithful, that hope is our lifeblood, and that the future is bound up not in our past but in God’s work of transformation.
Now and Forever
It has been 40 days today. There’s certainly biblical significance to the span of 40 days. It seems to be a significant time marker for earth dwellers.
Pastoral Navigation
The most pressing question for me is, how are we supposed to navigate the challenge of pastoral care?
“Gilead” by Marilynne Robinson
Ministers should read this book simply because it’s a great novel, but it also offers training in the excavation of the soul. (Fiction)
Be the Best Part
I want the people whom I come in contact with to leave our time together, whether brief or extended, and think, “That was the best part of my day.”
“Behave” by Robert M. Sapolsky
The book is trying to answer a very basic question: in any particular moment, why do human beings behave badly or with deep goodness? (Nonfiction)
The Future Is Coming Quickly
What is church supposed to look like when the primary expressions of congregational life and ministry and mission are no longer available to us?
On Death, COVID-19, and Easter
Like my brothers in the prison, suddenly we are all hoping that death won’t have the last word.
Where Does Our Help Come From? (Ps. 121:1)
When the sting of death and pandemic turns into a dull denial and numb reality, where do we find hope?
Being Re-Membered
If Holy Thursday teaches us anything, it’s that Jesus is in the business of putting souls back together that have been torn apart by grief and fear.
A Chance to Do Church in a Radically Different Way
If you share a house with family members or roommates, then do family church instead of (or in addition to) online church.
War Books by Kevin Powers, Phil Klay, and Ben Fountain
All three books contain some harrowing war scenes but the books are as much about the aftermath of war as the war itself. (Fiction)
Dark Season, Renewed Hope
What will follow this season remains to be seen, but it will certainly alter what church looks like and how we practice the way of Jesus. What should leaders do as we enter into this uncertain and challenging time?
Who You Callin’ “Non-Essential”?
One of the most powerful spiritual gifts a leader can possess is the ability to make each member feel essential.
Passion Week Meditation
What’s a congregation to do? In these days of sheltering in place and quarantine and physical distancing, who is going to show up and celebrate an empty tomb?
Stock Up on Hand Sanitizer, Toilet Paper, and Your Crisis Communication Plan
If this whole coronavirus mayhem has taught me anything, it’s that we seriously have no idea what is going to hit church leaders next and that panic spreads worse than the virus.