After spending a couple of days as an observer during the second week of General Conference, I arrived back home to the high-pitched, high-decibel buzz of the cicadapocalypse. The emergence of the Brood XIX nymphs from their 13-year maturation period underground had begun, and the newly hatched adult cicadas were singing in the sun. I was struck by the parallel of this phenomenon to the historic events unfolding at General Conference.
Stories
An Encouragement for April
The #MeToo movement that began across social media platforms in 2017 raised awareness of the many ways women have been silenced throughout history. In Mark’s account of the resurrection narrative, we see the women flee the empty tomb in fear and they do not tell anyone about what they have encountered. I have to wonder if this is because women have been silenced for so long and are usually not believed.
An Encouragement for March
One of my most formative spiritual moments as a youth was entering a Catholic church for the first time with a dear lady (friend of the family) attending mass. Our families were on vacation
together. My family is Protestant. Her family is Catholic. Devout in her faith, Saturday night mass was on her schedule, even on this trip away. I had not been to mass much outside of first communion celebrations or weddings. I didn’t typically attend church on Saturday night. I was told I wouldn’t have to dress up, so I tagged along willingly.
Partnership with New Faith Communities and Center for Leadership Excellence
The Office of New Faith Communities partnered with Center for Leadership Excellence for a Common Learning Day with Rev. Dr. Kenda Creasy Dean presenting at Hayes Barton UMC. The day […]
An Encouragement for February
I’m one of those people who ALWAYS attempt to bring the weekly groceries in the house in one trip. For me, it’s not so much about eliminating multiple trips to and from the car as it is about proving I can do the difficult task. I like a good challenge, an opportunity to show I am strong and I don’t need help.
An Encouragement for January
Where are the places you find rootedness, purpose, and belonging? When do you find yourself stressed and fearing drought or do you often carry those for the people you serve? What would it take for you to have a greater sense of flourishing and God’s abundance this year?