The Rev. Alvin Edwards (left) visits with the Rev. Alvin Horton, pastor of First United Methodist Church, during a meeting of the Charlottesville Clergy Collective.
Photo by Richard Lord
When crisis hit Charlottesville last summer, local clergy were prepared to help lead, thanks in part to newly rebuilt relationships and trust, says the leader of the Charlottesville Clergy Collective.
Detail from book cover.
The role of preaching in Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s work is often overlooked by the academy, but it was at the very heart of his theology and ministry, says the homiletics professor and author of a new book on Bonhoeffer and preaching.
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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.
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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.