04
Mar 2022
As we watch the news from Ukraine, it’s easy to feel helpless and fearful. As in other times of social anxiety, our Methodist tradition has direction for us. The United Methodist Church speaks against war. The United Methodist Discipline states that “we deplore war and urge the peaceful settlement of all disputes among nations” (par 164.I). In fact, we make the bold statement that war is “incompatible with the teachings of Christ” (par 165.C). Our bishops and other faith leaders have joined together in denouncing the violence and war that Russia has......
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On Feelings and Science
By now you’ve received and hopefully read the letter from the Lay Leaders about the relaxing of the mandate for wearing masks in our church buildings. Each of our Lay Leaders is on the...
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Being Brave
I grew up in northern Florida, lived in Florida all my life, lived just south of the “Space Coast” for a while, and I never saw a space shuttle launch. I can remember, however,...
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Reset Your Thinking
Have you thought about the opportunities around you every day? Often, I get stuck on my “problems” or my “obstacles.” An unexpected bill. Another doctor’s appointment to squeeze in. An unending supply of emails....
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A New Wilderness
I’ve heard many people talk about getting back to normal after this pandemic. I wonder if we are really looking for that or if we are just grasping at anything that will lessen the...
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You Have Been With Me From Birth
If there were awards for when we pastors introduce ourselves at the beginning of worship, I would win the “longest title” award. I am the Christian Formation and Outreach Pastor at St. Mark’s....
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Do No Harm
In Wesleyan teaching, we hear the phrase “Three Simple Rules.” John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, taught that there are three simple rules that should guide our actions and decisions. We should strive each...
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COVID-19 Concerns
As Omicron continues to race through our community, we remind you once again to stay safe. Social distancing and masking are important for us to slow the spread. The news I hear most recently...
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Baptism
I was about 10 years old when I was in the first church service where I remember a baptism taking place. I have this vivid picture of looking up to where the pastor was...
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Happy New Year!
In our house when I was growing up, we had the tradition of eating certain foods on New Year’s Day. You eat these foods to start the year right, to begin the year with...
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