In each of Paul’s letters, he follows the writing conventions of his day. He begins by identifying himself and then offers greetings. As usual, Paul then includes a prayer of thanksgiving for his readers. In Ephesians, I find his prayer particular...
During the fall, I have been working my way through the Book of Acts. I find this detailed account of the early church’s beginnings fascinating. In chapter 6, we encounter a dynamic that speaks to our work in ministry. First, we see people in the...
A few weeks ago, I was directed by the lectionary to Acts 11. I found this passage so compelling that I decided to spend an extended period meditating on it. I slowly read through each verse, looking for words that stood out to me. I found this st...
I was listening to a podcast from App Stories today, in which the hosts were discussing AI. I found their conversation helpful as we consider how to utilize this new technology in ministry contexts. The hosts were opposed to the use of Generative...
In the first two parts of this blog series, I explored the definition of Artificial Intelligence and considered the implications of using this technology in a ministry setting. While it is crucial to carefully consider the theological framework of...
In the first post on this subject, we explored the ethical and moral considerations of incorporating AI in ministry, examining both the opportunities and challenges it presents. It is important that we thoughtfully discern the complexities of this...
AI, or Artificial Intelligence, is all the rage these days. Investors are pouring resources into research and development across various areas of AI. Smartphones and computers are integrating AI into the very fabric of our workflows. So how do we ...
In our staff devotional time this morning, we surveyed Psalm 46. This is a wonderful reflection on God’s presence and provision during tumultuous times. The psalm begins with a confession of God’s strength and help in times of trouble. It goes on ...
Having lived for nearly a decade in Springfield, Illinois, I am an unapologetic Lincoln admirer. While his story is synonymous with the American story, from the poor log cabin to the presidency, Lincoln embodies our hopes to move beyond our presen...
During the fall, I have been working my way through the Book of Acts. I find this detailed account of the early church’s beginnings fascinating. In chapter 6, we encounter a dynamic that speaks to our work in ministry. First, we see people in the...
As I consider work-life balance and sustainable ministry, it seems that a crucial aspect is getting out of town. Not long after moving to Upstate New York, my wife and I discovered Silver Bay YMCA Pastoral Respite Center. The center provides respi...
Issues of work-life balance have been on my mind over the past few weeks. In this post, I would like to survey areas of interest in this realm. This post can serve as a reference to ensure that my writings are balanced, not concentrated too much o...
It has been a while since I posted on this blog. My time has been devoted to other ventures. However, I keep coming back to the issue of discernment. It is central to ministry; I am especially cognizant of God’s continual leading. He often calls u...
Discerning has become a key issue for me in ministry. I find myself constantly using the word in conversations, leader meetings, and even interactions with other churches. I feel like those around me are thinking, “Here he goes again talking about...
We often hear people describe ventures of self-discovery. They retreat from the normal pace of life to find themselves. This might involve a multi-week hike into the mountains or even a rebellion against the rules of society. They feel lost and ne...
Having lived for nearly a decade in Springfield, Illinois, I am an unapologetic Lincoln admirer. While his story is synonymous with the American story, from the poor log cabin to the presidency, Lincoln embodies our hopes to move beyond our presen...
I have not been as faithful through 2016 in writing for this blog. Other work has taken precedence during the year. However, I am not abandoning this blog. I am more convinced than ever of the necessity of discernment in churches. This past week, ...
Discerning has become a key issue for me in ministry. I find myself constantly using the word in conversations, leader meetings, and even interactions with other churches. I feel like those around me are thinking, “Here he goes again talking about...
As the new year begins, I take a moment to reflect on the books I’ve read last year and identify those I’d like to explore this year. One notable recommendation for 2024 is Morgan Housel’s book Same as Ever: A Guide to What Never Changes, which I ...
I have not been as faithful through 2016 in writing for this blog. Other work has taken precedence during the year. However, I am not abandoning this blog. I am more convinced than ever of the necessity of discernment in churches. This past week, ...
In each of Paul’s letters, he follows the writing conventions of his day. He begins by identifying himself and then offers greetings. As usual, Paul then includes a prayer of thanksgiving for his readers. In Ephesians, I find his prayer particular...
I’m beginning to see the word discern more frequently these days. In books, magazine articles, and blog entries, the word seems to be everywhere. However, I’m not sure we fully understand its meaning. One definition describes discernment as: ...
In following the lectionary readings as a part of a devotional time, I came to a passage in Jeremiah that caught my attention. Jeremiah is proclaiming God’s reaction to the disobedience of His people. (Jeremiah 2:4-8 NIV) Hear the word of the ...
As we continue to consider the twelve disciples in worship, we focus on James this week. While he is one of the lead disciples, he is seldom mentioned alone in Scripture. In fact, the only time he is cited without his brother John is when he is ma...
This summer, we are exploring the Twelve Disciples of Jesus. For several years, I have contemplated doing this series. I thought it would be fun to spend time exploring the lives of these men. I was a bit surprised how little information we have o...
A few weeks ago, I was directed by the lectionary to Acts 11. I found this passage so compelling that I decided to spend an extended period meditating on it. I slowly read through each verse, looking for words that stood out to me. I found this st...
We often hear people describe ventures of self-discovery. They retreat from the normal pace of life to find themselves. This might involve a multi-week hike into the mountains or even a rebellion against the rules of society. They feel lost and ne...
In preparation for Palm Sunday, I was reading the lectionary text for this week. As I studied the text, I noticed a few key words that point us toward discernment. Luke records Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem in Luke 19:28ff. He begins: (Luke 19:2...
I am preaching tomorrow at a community-wide Lenten service. It is wonderful to join with other Christians during the season of Lent. As we approach Resurrection Sunday, we remember Jesus’ journey to the Cross. Tomorrow’s text is Mark 10:32-45. In...
It has been a while since I posted on this blog. My time has been devoted to other ventures. However, I keep coming back to the issue of discernment. It is central to ministry; I am especially cognizant of God’s continual leading. He often calls u...
This summer, we are exploring the Twelve Disciples of Jesus. For several years, I have contemplated doing this series. I thought it would be fun to spend time exploring the lives of these men. I was a bit surprised how little information we have o...
As we continue to consider the twelve disciples in worship, we focus on James this week. While he is one of the lead disciples, he is seldom mentioned alone in Scripture. In fact, the only time he is cited without his brother John is when he is ma...
It has been a while since I posted on this blog. My time has been devoted to other ventures. However, I keep coming back to the issue of discernment. It is central to ministry; I am especially cognizant of God’s continual leading. He often calls u...
I was listening to a podcast from App Stories today, in which the hosts were discussing AI. I found their conversation helpful as we consider how to utilize this new technology in ministry contexts. The hosts were opposed to the use of Generative...
In the first two parts of this blog series, I explored the definition of Artificial Intelligence and considered the implications of using this technology in a ministry setting. While it is crucial to carefully consider the theological framework of...
In the first post on this subject, we explored the ethical and moral considerations of incorporating AI in ministry, examining both the opportunities and challenges it presents. It is important that we thoughtfully discern the complexities of this...
AI, or Artificial Intelligence, is all the rage these days. Investors are pouring resources into research and development across various areas of AI. Smartphones and computers are integrating AI into the very fabric of our workflows. So how do we ...
In our staff devotional time this morning, we surveyed Psalm 46. This is a wonderful reflection on God’s presence and provision during tumultuous times. The psalm begins with a confession of God’s strength and help in times of trouble. It goes on ...
During the fall, I have been working my way through the Book of Acts. I find this detailed account of the early church’s beginnings fascinating. In chapter 6, we encounter a dynamic that speaks to our work in ministry. First, we see people in the...
A few weeks ago, I was directed by the lectionary to Acts 11. I found this passage so compelling that I decided to spend an extended period meditating on it. I slowly read through each verse, looking for words that stood out to me. I found this st...
Issues of work-life balance have been on my mind over the past few weeks. In this post, I would like to survey areas of interest in this realm. This post can serve as a reference to ensure that my writings are balanced, not concentrated too much o...
In following the lectionary readings as a part of a devotional time, I came to a passage in Jeremiah that caught my attention. Jeremiah is proclaiming God’s reaction to the disobedience of His people. (Jeremiah 2:4-8 NIV) Hear the word of the ...
We often hear people describe ventures of self-discovery. They retreat from the normal pace of life to find themselves. This might involve a multi-week hike into the mountains or even a rebellion against the rules of society. They feel lost and ne...
As we continue to consider the twelve disciples in worship, we focus on James this week. While he is one of the lead disciples, he is seldom mentioned alone in Scripture. In fact, the only time he is cited without his brother John is when he is ma...
In following the lectionary readings as a part of a devotional time, I came to a passage in Jeremiah that caught my attention. Jeremiah is proclaiming God’s reaction to the disobedience of His people. (Jeremiah 2:4-8 NIV) Hear the word of the ...
This summer, we are exploring the Twelve Disciples of Jesus. For several years, I have contemplated doing this series. I thought it would be fun to spend time exploring the lives of these men. I was a bit surprised how little information we have o...
As the new year begins, I take a moment to reflect on the books I’ve read last year and identify those I’d like to explore this year. One notable recommendation for 2024 is Morgan Housel’s book Same as Ever: A Guide to What Never Changes, which I ...
We are rethinking our workspaces on our church property, potentially repurposing a staff office to expand our welcome area. The planning discussions have been intriguing, revealing how little time we actually spend in the office. This doesn’t mean...
Having lived for nearly a decade in Springfield, Illinois, I am an unapologetic Lincoln admirer. While his story is synonymous with the American story, from the poor log cabin to the presidency, Lincoln embodies our hopes to move beyond our presen...
After a few years of settling into my role as pastor of The United Church in Canandaigua, New York, I am excited to relaunch this blog. It has been a period of adjustment and growth, and now I am eager to reconnect with you all through these refle...
I have not been as faithful through 2016 in writing for this blog. Other work has taken precedence during the year. However, I am not abandoning this blog. I am more convinced than ever of the necessity of discernment in churches. This past week, ...
I’m beginning to see the word discern more frequently these days. In books, magazine articles, and blog entries, the word seems to be everywhere. However, I’m not sure we fully understand its meaning. One definition describes discernment as: ...
As we continue to consider the twelve disciples in worship, we focus on James this week. While he is one of the lead disciples, he is seldom mentioned alone in Scripture. In fact, the only time he is cited without his brother John is when he is ma...
This summer, we are exploring the Twelve Disciples of Jesus. For several years, I have contemplated doing this series. I thought it would be fun to spend time exploring the lives of these men. I was a bit surprised how little information we have o...
A few weeks ago, I was directed by the lectionary to Acts 11. I found this passage so compelling that I decided to spend an extended period meditating on it. I slowly read through each verse, looking for words that stood out to me. I found this st...
I am preaching tomorrow at a community-wide Lenten service. It is wonderful to join with other Christians during the season of Lent. As we approach Resurrection Sunday, we remember Jesus’ journey to the Cross. Tomorrow’s text is Mark 10:32-45. In...
We are rethinking our workspaces on our church property, potentially repurposing a staff office to expand our welcome area. The planning discussions have been intriguing, revealing how little time we actually spend in the office. This doesn’t mean...
After a few years of settling into my role as pastor of The United Church in Canandaigua, New York, I am excited to relaunch this blog. It has been a period of adjustment and growth, and now I am eager to reconnect with you all through these refle...
Having lived for nearly a decade in Springfield, Illinois, I am an unapologetic Lincoln admirer. While his story is synonymous with the American story, from the poor log cabin to the presidency, Lincoln embodies our hopes to move beyond our presen...
As I consider work-life balance and sustainable ministry, it seems that a crucial aspect is getting out of town. Not long after moving to Upstate New York, my wife and I discovered Silver Bay YMCA Pastoral Respite Center. The center provides respi...
Issues of work-life balance have been on my mind over the past few weeks. In this post, I would like to survey areas of interest in this realm. This post can serve as a reference to ensure that my writings are balanced, not concentrated too much o...
In our staff devotional time this morning, we surveyed Psalm 46. This is a wonderful reflection on God’s presence and provision during tumultuous times. The psalm begins with a confession of God’s strength and help in times of trouble. It goes on ...
After a few years of settling into my role as pastor of The United Church in Canandaigua, New York, I am excited to relaunch this blog. It has been a period of adjustment and growth, and now I am eager to reconnect with you all through these refle...
Discerning has become a key issue for me in ministry. I find myself constantly using the word in conversations, leader meetings, and even interactions with other churches. I feel like those around me are thinking, “Here he goes again talking about...
I was listening to a podcast from App Stories today, in which the hosts were discussing AI. I found their conversation helpful as we consider how to utilize this new technology in ministry contexts. The hosts were opposed to the use of Generative...
In the first two parts of this blog series, I explored the definition of Artificial Intelligence and considered the implications of using this technology in a ministry setting. While it is crucial to carefully consider the theological framework of...
In the first post on this subject, we explored the ethical and moral considerations of incorporating AI in ministry, examining both the opportunities and challenges it presents. It is important that we thoughtfully discern the complexities of this...
AI, or Artificial Intelligence, is all the rage these days. Investors are pouring resources into research and development across various areas of AI. Smartphones and computers are integrating AI into the very fabric of our workflows. So how do we ...
In preparation for Palm Sunday, I was reading the lectionary text for this week. As I studied the text, I noticed a few key words that point us toward discernment. Luke records Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem in Luke 19:28ff. He begins: (Luke 19:2...
We are rethinking our workspaces on our church property, potentially repurposing a staff office to expand our welcome area. The planning discussions have been intriguing, revealing how little time we actually spend in the office. This doesn’t mean...
We often hear people describe ventures of self-discovery. They retreat from the normal pace of life to find themselves. This might involve a multi-week hike into the mountains or even a rebellion against the rules of society. They feel lost and ne...
In each of Paul’s letters, he follows the writing conventions of his day. He begins by identifying himself and then offers greetings. As usual, Paul then includes a prayer of thanksgiving for his readers. In Ephesians, I find his prayer particular...
We are rethinking our workspaces on our church property, potentially repurposing a staff office to expand our welcome area. The planning discussions have been intriguing, revealing how little time we actually spend in the office. This doesn’t mean...
In our staff devotional time this morning, we surveyed Psalm 46. This is a wonderful reflection on God’s presence and provision during tumultuous times. The psalm begins with a confession of God’s strength and help in times of trouble. It goes on ...
I’m beginning to see the word discern more frequently these days. In books, magazine articles, and blog entries, the word seems to be everywhere. However, I’m not sure we fully understand its meaning. One definition describes discernment as: ...
In preparation for Palm Sunday, I was reading the lectionary text for this week. As I studied the text, I noticed a few key words that point us toward discernment. Luke records Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem in Luke 19:28ff. He begins: (Luke 19:2...
It has been a while since I posted on this blog. My time has been devoted to other ventures. However, I keep coming back to the issue of discernment. It is central to ministry; I am especially cognizant of God’s continual leading. He often calls u...
In our staff devotional time this morning, we surveyed Psalm 46. This is a wonderful reflection on God’s presence and provision during tumultuous times. The psalm begins with a confession of God’s strength and help in times of trouble. It goes on ...
I have not been as faithful through 2016 in writing for this blog. Other work has taken precedence during the year. However, I am not abandoning this blog. I am more convinced than ever of the necessity of discernment in churches. This past week, ...
In preparation for Palm Sunday, I was reading the lectionary text for this week. As I studied the text, I noticed a few key words that point us toward discernment. Luke records Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem in Luke 19:28ff. He begins: (Luke 19:2...
Issues of work-life balance have been on my mind over the past few weeks. In this post, I would like to survey areas of interest in this realm. This post can serve as a reference to ensure that my writings are balanced, not concentrated too much o...
I am preaching tomorrow at a community-wide Lenten service. It is wonderful to join with other Christians during the season of Lent. As we approach Resurrection Sunday, we remember Jesus’ journey to the Cross. Tomorrow’s text is Mark 10:32-45. In...
A few weeks ago, I got sick - on a Saturday afternoon, of all times. For a pastor, this is perhaps the most challenging time to fall ill. Thankfully, we are a multi-staffed church. I called our associate pastor, emailed my sermon, and witnessed Go...
A few weeks ago, I was directed by the lectionary to Acts 11. I found this passage so compelling that I decided to spend an extended period meditating on it. I slowly read through each verse, looking for words that stood out to me. I found this st...
In our staff devotional time this morning, we surveyed Psalm 46. This is a wonderful reflection on God’s presence and provision during tumultuous times. The psalm begins with a confession of God’s strength and help in times of trouble. It goes on ...
I was listening to a podcast from App Stories today, in which the hosts were discussing AI. I found their conversation helpful as we consider how to utilize this new technology in ministry contexts. The hosts were opposed to the use of Generative...
In the first two parts of this blog series, I explored the definition of Artificial Intelligence and considered the implications of using this technology in a ministry setting. While it is crucial to carefully consider the theological framework of...
In the first post on this subject, we explored the ethical and moral considerations of incorporating AI in ministry, examining both the opportunities and challenges it presents. It is important that we thoughtfully discern the complexities of this...
AI, or Artificial Intelligence, is all the rage these days. Investors are pouring resources into research and development across various areas of AI. Smartphones and computers are integrating AI into the very fabric of our workflows. So how do we ...
Issues of work-life balance have been on my mind over the past few weeks. In this post, I would like to survey areas of interest in this realm. This post can serve as a reference to ensure that my writings are balanced, not concentrated too much o...
Discerning has become a key issue for me in ministry. I find myself constantly using the word in conversations, leader meetings, and even interactions with other churches. I feel like those around me are thinking, “Here he goes again talking about...
As I consider work-life balance and sustainable ministry, it seems that a crucial aspect is getting out of town. Not long after moving to Upstate New York, my wife and I discovered Silver Bay YMCA Pastoral Respite Center. The center provides respi...
In our staff devotional time this morning, we surveyed Psalm 46. This is a wonderful reflection on God’s presence and provision during tumultuous times. The psalm begins with a confession of God’s strength and help in times of trouble. It goes on ...
During the fall, I have been working my way through the Book of Acts. I find this detailed account of the early church’s beginnings fascinating. In chapter 6, we encounter a dynamic that speaks to our work in ministry. First, we see people in the...
A few weeks ago, I got sick - on a Saturday afternoon, of all times. For a pastor, this is perhaps the most challenging time to fall ill. Thankfully, we are a multi-staffed church. I called our associate pastor, emailed my sermon, and witnessed Go...
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