Yesterday we worshiped with our Irvington Covenant church family. On the way there in the van, I told Mercy that we were going to the place where I first met her Daddy. Not certain that she was appreciating the importance of what I was telling her, I explained that it was like when Cinderella walked… Continue reading Resolved
Category: Church
Growing up
One of the gifts of significance received on Christmas day was a package of Thomas the Tank Engine underwear. Aaron has been working on potty training recently, and certain grandparents decided that the little boy who loves trains should have this particular set. Aaron was quite excited, and so the next day we put them… Continue reading Growing up
Worn
“Buy green. Shop here.” This was the message on a sign out in front of a thrift store we passed in Seattle. I marveled at the truth of this simple message and at how unimaginable the concept of buying used stuff is to so many. I have always been fond of thrift stores. During my… Continue reading Worn
Honesty
Right before we left for our trip, both Mercy and Aaron had check-ups at our pediatrician’s office. During the kids’ doctor’s visits, I am used to Dr. Jamie asking us lots of questions about the kids during the exam, like how they are sleeping, pooping, talking, etc. But this time she addressed some of her… Continue reading Honesty
Advent
This morning we worshipped with our family at Shoreline Covenant Church. Pastor Mike spoke of the significance of our use of lights during Christmas, and the need to remember the darkness those lights pierce. He reminded us that December is the darkest month of the year; the month which contains the darkest day of the… Continue reading Advent
The people who are…
Ever since I was a child, I can remember seeing the following phrase used on various publications from our church: “The people who are Shoreline Covenant Church.” As a kid, I can remember thinking that the language seemed a bit clumsy or strange. In every other context where I heard the word “church” used, it… Continue reading The people who are…
O Christmas Tree
There is a tradition in Portland, as in many cities, of celebrating the lighting of the giant Christmas tree in the center of town. Having never seen it live, Auntie Sarah and I decided to brave the elements (I forget how cold it is up here!) and head downtown with all three kids to see… Continue reading O Christmas Tree
The priesthood of all; a paycheck for some
I really appreciated Julie Clawson’s honesty in looking at the issues surrounding the choice to pay pastors for their work within a faith community. I have had many conversations with many people about whether the whole “professional clergy” model is worth keeping, and whether using a community’s resources to support a paid pastor is the… Continue reading The priesthood of all; a paycheck for some
Lunch in Laguna
Doug, Elijah and I had a perfectly delightful time with the folks from The Little Church by the Sea on Saturday. It was great to meet Jeff and Patty Tacklind in person, and the members of the church did a great job of welcoming us and making us feel at home. It was also a… Continue reading Lunch in Laguna
A time to speak
I have the wonderful opportunity to speak at a symposium on women in ministry at this church this coming weekend. I am looking forward to meeting the great folks who have invited me, and hearing from those facilitating discussion throughout the day. I will be offering the keynote address during the luncheon, and I will… Continue reading A time to speak