Faith and Life’s Trials: The Journey of a Pastor

When I reflect upon my faith and my life’s journey – growing up in a middle-class, white, conservative family, transitioning from a life of middle-class comfort to economic struggles, grappling with my LGBTQIA identity, and navigating the harsh realities of incarceration – I often wonder about the roots of my […]

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A Tapestry of Grace: Finding My True Self Through The United Church of Christ

Life is a journey with many unexpected twists and turns. Several years ago, I found myself at a challenging juncture, incarcerated, disconnected, and at an all-time low. Amidst these bleak surroundings, however, a light emerged — I was found by the United Church of Christ (UCC). This spiritual encounter would […]

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Unpacking Romans 9:1-5: A Beacon of Sorrow, Love, and Divine Purpose

In this blog post, we’ll delve into the complex yet poignant verses found in Romans 9:1-5, where Apostle Paul expresses his profound sorrow, unwavering love, and understanding of God’s divine purpose for the Israelites. In these verses, Paul allows us to see a glimpse of his heart, revealing a depth […]

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Shadowed by the Cross’s Reach

Pastors stand beneath the spire, shadowed by the Cross’s reach, Guiding hearts through life’s mire, entrusted with God’s speech. In robes of hope, they lead the flock, toward light’s embrace, Yet even they, against the clock, can stumble in the race. From pulpit high, they weave the words, threading love’s […]

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The Heart of the Storm

In the heart of the storm where judgments roar, As a pastor, a shepherd of God’s own core, A beacon of faith, yet so much more, Queer, neurodivergent, once a convict’s score. Emotions rise, like waves upon a shore, Anger surfaces, a lion’s mighty roar, Not the primal beast, but […]

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Unveiling Anger: A Pastor’s Journey to Authenticity and Acceptance

Introduction As a Christian pastor, the call to love and guide others is a profound journey, one that can become especially complex when intersecting with identities as a neurodivergent, LGBTQIA individual, and former convict. The path to living authentically, while guided by faith, can be fraught with judgment and misunderstanding, […]

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Church Folks vs. God’s Folks: The True Nature of Being the Church

In our faith journeys, we often hear references to “church folks” and “God’s folks.” These labels might appear synonymous at first glance, yet they reflect different approaches to spirituality, service, and community. Understanding the distinction is essential in our path towards spiritual growth and embodying the very essence of what […]

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Crossing the Aisle: A Call for Unity and Cooperation among Legislators

Introduction In today’s world, our country faces numerous challenges that demand immediate attention and thoughtful solutions. As a pastor and a concerned citizen, I believe that one of the most significant obstacles hindering progress is the increasing divisiveness among our legislators. The polarization and refusal to cooperate across party lines […]

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