The past few weeks have been exhausting. Going back to college at my age was a feat in itself, but managing a parish, diocese, national church, magazine, and family has been a struggle. And so often in ministry we find ourselves alone working to help those most in need. Even worse, those who claim to … Read more
“This man dines with sinners and tax collectors…” This sentiment is one that we are all to accustomed to in this parish. We know all to well the accusations that Jesus received from the “religious” legalists of his day. Today we have the same legalism but coming from our so called brothers in faith almost … Read more
This weeks Gospel gives us a parable that asks us an important question. Who is cherished in our community. For far too long we have looked at false pretenses of honor to celebrities and notable figures. But Jesus paints a clear picture the one who is deserving of honor is the one who gives back … Read more
Speaking truth to power is hard. Doing what is right is hard. We are told to stick to our guns and push back the hands of oppression and deceit. As Christians, we are also taught that we need to be a home for all people. Yet, when we spread our message of love and acceptance, we … Read more
Today I received a phone call from a very disgruntled Roman Catholic who proceeded to make me aware that I was a horrible Bishop for calling out his bigotry, misogyny, and abuse of other people. I admit, I was not as charitable as I should have been, but my humanity took over as I worked … Read more
A favorite comedian of mine, Gabriel Iglesias, has a line where he pokes fun of his weight as being fluffy. And as a former fluffy person, I get why he does it. Too often we are reminded by society that our weight is our own fault, despite that genetics, stress, and emotional factors play a … Read more
The readings of this week all focus on the same thing. Focus. Where are we as children of God putting our focus. This is especially clear when we look at the Gospel. Martha is so busy serving the others, that she is missing out on Jesus teaching at the table. On the other hand Mary, … Read more
I received a lot of hate this past week because I chose not to celebrate the 4th of July. I did this after much prayer and reflection. It was meant to send a message that I cannot celebrate the independence and freedom in our nation until we are all free and independent. And in this … Read more
This week Paul gives us the key line that we as Christians are crucified to the world. Meaning that regardless of what goes on in the world, we are promised better in Christ. In Christ’s kingdom all divisions cease, and we are made new. Which is the truth we proclaim in the creeds when we … Read more
Over the past few weeks I have lost a large number of friends. This is all part of ministry sadly. As my dear friend Bishop St. George always says we spend more time saying goodbye than saying hello. However, our parish and my ministry in particular will not dip our progressive standard. Jesus calls us … Read more