I’ve been writing monthly newsletter articles about my approach to various aspects of congregational ministry – worship, sacraments, weddings, funerals, and so forth. This month, I wrote about the intersection of patriotism and Christian worship. It is a variant on pieces I’ve written on this blog in the past. Below is what appeared in myContinue reading “Pastor’s Approach: Praising God, Honoring Country”
Category Archives: Lutheran
Onomia, Oh My!
Today I visited Camp Onomia, one of the outdoor ministries of the ELCA, located just two hours northwest of Saint Paul in the Mille Lacs area. And I am so glad I did! Camp Onomia is set on beautiful Shakopee Lake, and is surrounded by state park land. As you look across the lake, youContinue reading “Onomia, Oh My!”
Our Church’s Life, Death, and Resurrection
I think that as people of faith who also love our church, our challenge is to believe the Easter message that out of death comes life, and that everything – even the church we love – dies and rises to new life with Christ.
Palm Sunday has Enough Passion of Its Own
A Christian Century blogpost by Karoline Lewis (Against Passion Sunday) has inspired a few posts among blogs I read, and a wonderful conversation on my Facebook profile. In her piece, Dr. Lewis recalls her childhood experience of worshiping on Palm Sunday. "It was celebratory, festive, when as child I got a chance for a hands-onContinue reading “Palm Sunday has Enough Passion of Its Own”
“Joining God in the Neighborhood”
I’m convinced that God is at work within the church walls, yes, but also beyond the church walls. God-things are happening at the altar and font, but also at the corner store, the barber shop, the shelter, the county government offices, the public schools, social service organizations, ten mile runs, and more.
The Lutheran Zephyr 