There are times where I am thankful that we are on a set lectionary. The readings never fail to shine a light on what we go through day to day in our mundane life. But it easy to forget that even though the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, it was a committee of theologians that … Read more
This week’s Gospel and readings center on the idea of thankfulness and gratitude. In my 24 years of ministry, I have never experienced a time where there is less gratitude or thankfulness in our world. So many people look for the fault in others, the things they can complain about, and the opportunities to pick … Read more
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 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
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
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
This Sunday we celebrate the Ascension of Our Lord into heaven after his resurrection. It is supposed to be a joyful occasion in which the Great Commission is given for the disciples to go out into all the world and preach the Gospel, literally the Good News of Jesus’ teachings. However, the church has far … Read more
This Sunday is the great crescendo of Jesus’ message while on earth. We learn the greatest commandment and what he taught as the path to salvation. It was not that we must believe in his death or that a blood had to be spilled to make an “angry God” happy again. No, it was much … Read more