Secular holidays

Juneteenth is both a cause for celebration and a call to action

The history of racial violence in this country runs deep. Juneteenth calls us to remember and repair the damage.

By Michael W. Waters Lead pastor of Abundant Life AME Church

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Remembering the sacrifice of Black veterans this Memorial Day

Recognizing Black service members is a part of racial justice, writes an African American Navy veteran.

By Bryon L. Garner Writer

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Make space for veterans to share their stories

Not all veterans are injured or ill, but all have a story to tell, says an Army chaplain who works with wounded soldiers transitioning out of the military. As Veterans Day approaches, take time to listen and be present.

By Mel Baars O'Malley U.S. Army chaplain

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A worship service for a year of generosity and abundance

This worship service is based on Puerto Rican Christmas traditions, which include joyful gatherings of friends and family, music, and a soup called asopao.

By Thea L. Racelis Minister, Northwest Community Church, Las Vegas

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Giving thanks in a difficult season

Enjoying the Thanksgiving meal was impossible for a writer recovering from brain surgery. But she has come to appreciate that Thanksgiving is about celebrating what you have, not grieving what you have lost.

By Bridgette A. Lacy Journalist

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Presidents Day in the memory unit, 2016

The music therapist’s Presidents Day quiz stirs something in the nursing home residents, something they recall, and the answers come pouring forth, like responses to a Bible drill.

By Melissa Musick Nussbaum Writer

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How to foster a healthier year in ministry

Two strategies -- seeking solitude with God and companionship in stewarding one’s vision -- will help good intentions become realities in the new year, writes a spiritual director.

By Samuel Rahberg Director, Graduate Certificate in Spiritual Direction at Saint John’s School of Theology and Seminary

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Seeking sanctuary through New Year's resolutions

Taking on a spiritual discipline, such as carving out Sabbath time, might strengthen and renew your leadership. And it might be a resolution you can actually keep.

By Gretchen E. Ziegenhals Spiritual director and retreat leader

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The Fourth of July, Moravian style

As people of faith, it might be appropriate to have a quiet Fourth of July, taking a cue from the Moravian Christians who marked the first public celebration in 1783 with prayer, music and a candelight procession, says a pastor in Winston-Salem, N.C.

By Mark Ralls Senior pastor, First UMC, Hendersonville, N.C.

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Resources for Memorial Day

Military chaplains reflect on the theological implications of their job, how churches can help returning soldiers and veterans, and how to find beauty even in the midst of war.

More than enough

In a land of easy consumption, Thanksgiving meals remind us of our vulnerability and interdependence.

By Brian Volck Writer and pediatrician