By Terry Maples Language naturally evolves over time. I’ve observed the evolution of many words since my childhood. One example is the word “mouse.” When I was young the word referred to an undesirable furry rodent or the more winsome…
Forever Changed #13: flying our flags together
What a week! I know I say that every week. But it’s is true. How many of you aren’t happy unless you are running your life at 100 mph with your hair on fire? Most of you know that pretty…
Dear CBF
By Lesley-Ann Hix I was in elementary school when my church ordained one of our female ministers. We were excited. We even decorated her car. Someone painted, “Take that, Paige Patterson!” I asked my mom what it meant. “She’s a…
Pastors need to know the gift of disappointment
One of my favorite films is Rudy. If it’s on, we watch it. If we don’t have time to watch it, we DVR it. A pivotal scene takes place when Rudy speaks with a priest he has befriended. Rudy has done all…
A season to prepare
By Jerrod Hugenot Perhaps like you, I find myself somewhere between the heady rush of the season’s good tidings and the weighty counterpoint of reality.” How does one navigate the “Christmas season” while admitting that it’s a difficult time for…
Living Advent
I have noticed that by the time Christmas comes, my family gladly collapses together because we are all so tired from ‘celebrating’ for a full month. What if Advent is about more than simply anticipating Christmas? As a self-identified…
Many congregations are stuck in an overly churched culture
In the midst of a region of the world where the impact of a churched culture is fading, many congregations in North America are stuck in an overly churched culture perspective. As a result these congregations become insulated, isolated, and…
Thanksgivingization
By Alan Rudnick It seems every year retailers are pushing holiday seasons earlier and earlier. I walked through the home improvement giant, Lowe’s the day after Halloween and saw Christmas decorations, holiday goodies and Christmas lights already on sale. Was…
Paying our dues
By Roger Lovette On this Thanksgiving week I remember that old couple who were members of the rural church I served. Once a month, without fail, they would hobble in and hand me a check. They always said the same…