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What’s the solution to the firearms dilemma for a pastor in gun-loving Texas? Visiting and listening. That allows a pastor to see how isolated and fearful people are, and it offers a chance to connect them to community.
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All Christians are called to invite others along the way of Jesus. Make it easy for people to say yes, don’t wear out your welcome, and be yourself, advises a pastor who offers “free prayer” in public.
Young residents of a changing Brooklyn attend a concert at Park Church Co-op, one of its many events and spiritual offerings. Photos by Whitney Kidder
In a changing Brooklyn neighborhood, the Park Church Co-op is re-connecting with its missional roots, seeking to be a spiritual bridge to people who typically wouldn’t enter a Christian church.
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A pastor re-envisions his primary vocation not as a preacher, teacher, healer or administrator but as a host, a “convener.” It wasn’t what seminary prepared him for, but it’s a high and holy calling.
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Countless potential pulpits -- places of community service and leadership -- exist outside the church, says a Vermont pastor, school board member and active community volunteer. But will clergy look up from the busyness of day-to-day ministry to embrace them?
A crying angel organist statue at Malostransky Cemetery in Prague, Czech Republic. Bigstock / JosefKubes
These two practices help us connect to the Holy One, the source of love, compassion and justice, writes a retired Baptist pastor.
Photo courtesy of Union Theological Seminary
Guns and gun violence may not be addressed in Scripture, but human dignity, the sanctity of life and other matters that speak to the issue and resonate with Christians’ core beliefs are, says the Union Theological Seminary homiletics professor.
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Donald Trump may be a different kind of leader, perhaps even a threat to our democracy, but that doesn’t change the nature of the pastoral vocation, says an Iowa pastor. The pastor is the keeper of a space where we stand on a firm foundation.
The Rev. Ashley Goff (left) and the Rev. Jeffrey K. Krehbiel invite congregants to the communion table. Photos by Mike Morones.
At Church of the Pilgrims, vulnerability is a virtue and worship is an innovative and deeply collaborative experience between clergy and congregants.
William H. Lamar IV preaching. Photo courtesy of Paul Holston, Tru1 Photography
What is the role of black preaching in the new America of President-elect Trump? This Advent, a young AME pastor finds inspiration and insight in the theology of his denomination’s founder, Richard Allen.