ELCA Social Statements

When I moved into my church office, I found a copy of the ELCA's social statement on Criminal Justice on my desk. I haven't read it all the way through yet, but it occurred to me that, while I am familiar with all the ELCA's social statements, I've only read one cover to cover. So, … Continue reading ELCA Social Statements

Sermon–January 26, 2014–Epiphany 3A

Third Sunday after Epiphany A Preached at Faith Lutheran Church, Three Lakes, WI. Isaiah 9:1-4 Psalm 27: 1, 4-9 1 Corinthians 1:10-18 Matthew 4:12-23 When I started at Capital University, a public street ran through the center of campus. This posed a number of problems, not the least of which was the number of cars … Continue reading Sermon–January 26, 2014–Epiphany 3A

Kids Keep Getting Me Into Trouble

When it comes to work in the church, kids keep getting me into trouble. One of my favorite children sermons from my internship year was the story of Samuel's call. I find the story funny; Samuel keeps hearing a voice and, thinking it is Eli, keeps running and waking the poor man up. Since I … Continue reading Kids Keep Getting Me Into Trouble

Light and Warmth

It is really cold in my apartment. The wind outside is blowing against the building at 22 miles per hour, and it is -9 degrees Fahrenheit out there. Doors are frozen shut all around town. When I walked outside for just a few minutes, my eyes watered from the stinging and my tears nearly froze … Continue reading Light and Warmth

A New Call

Those of you who have been following my journey through seminary know that I had delayed my entry into the ELCA call process until a few months ago, and that since then, I have been in conversation with the Bishop of the Northern Great Lakes synod. We've made a few visits to the area and … Continue reading A New Call