In the heart of every Christian congregation lies the call to embrace all, to love unconditionally, and to create spaces where every individual feels welcomed and valued. Yet, the reality often falls short of this noble aspiration. In many churches, certain groups find themselves marginalized, overlooked, or even ostracized. From […]
The Silent Tears of the Holidays
In the stillness of winter, an unfolding narrative tells of courage and grace, unrestricted by conventional lines. The soft glow of festive lights paints a subdued backdrop, casting shadows upon a heart yearning for space to evolve. Within the framework of traditions, a silent journey unfolds, with the echoes of […]
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Discipleship in Distress: Evaluating Evangelical Misuse
The term “discipleship” historically reverberates with profound spiritual undertones, harking back to the disciples who devotedly followed Jesus, seeking enlightenment and a deepened relationship with God. At its core, discipleship encompasses genuine learning, growth, and an authentic pursuit of faith. However, like many other religious concepts, the term’s purity has […]
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Love Will Begin…
In the light that dances from the dawn, In the soft hymn of a morning song, In the broken spaces, shattered shards, Stood a man, resilient, bearing God’s regards. I’ve known love that’s been tainted and scarred, Wounds that run deep, heart ached and marred. Yet, in the silence, where […]
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Understanding Homosexuality Through First Century Culture: A Pastor’s Perspective
Throughout the centuries, scripture has been interpreted, reinterpreted, and molded to fit the cultural norms and values of each new generation. As we journey through our own understanding of scripture, it’s essential to remember the cultural context in which it was written. In doing so, we can truly grasp the […]
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The Rainbow Flag: Celebrating God’s Diverse Creation
Across streets, during pride parades, and fluttering high in many parts of the world, the rainbow flag stands as a vibrant symbol of pride, acceptance, and unity for the LGBTQ+ community. It’s a beautiful mosaic of colors, each hue telling its own story. As we delve into the meanings behind […]
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A Beacon in the Tempest
In the patterned cloths of upbringing, thread by thread, we’re often bound,In the whispers of our households, where unspoken truths resound.As we navigate existence, political views are often found,Yet they never tell the whole of who we are, nor where we’re bound. They ask me, with their puzzled gaze, my […]
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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 […]
