For the Parish

As we have been praying the prayer “For the Parish” daily these past two weeks, I have started to think about the variety of phrases. Some are old fashioned, some are blunt, and some seem out of sync with the others. But I have enjoyed putting these phrases together in one communal prayer.

Show the light of your countenance, and we shall be saved

Collect for the Fourth Sunday of Advent, Year B
Purify our conscience, Almighty God, by your daily visitation, that your Son Jesus Christ, at his coming, may find in us a mansion prepared for himself; who lives and reigns with…

Letting Christ Grow Within Us

As we were approaching Advent last year, my spiritual director and I were discussing the word “Theotokos.” This is the Eastern Orthodox designation for Mary, the God bearer or simply “Mother of God.” I owe much of my spiritual practices to the Orthodox tradition, and this is…

What I’m Learning This Week — 9/15/16

I listen to and read a lot of articles and stories. Some of these shape my preaching and teaching, some give me ideas for new ventures, some are thought-provoking, and some are just plain fun.

What I’m Learning This Week — 9/1/16

I listen to a lot of podcasts and read a lot of blogs. Some of these stories shape my preaching and teaching, some give me ideas for new ventures, some are thought-provoking, and some are just plain fun.

Hell took a body, and discovered God

Are there any who are devout lovers of God?
Let them enjoy this beautiful bright festival!

Are there any who are grateful servants?
Let them rejoice and enter into the joy of their Lord!

What I’m Learning This Week — 9/8/16

I listen to a lot of podcasts and read a lot of blogs. Some of these stories shape my preaching and teaching, some give me ideas for new ventures, some are thought-provoking, and some are just plain fun.