Our role as leaders of congregations is most visible when we stand up to preach. Whenever we step into the pulpit, we are “out in front” — thus fulfilling the shorthand definition of a leader. On any given Sunday, we…
Letter to the Editor: Where do ‘we’ go?
Dear Editor: Where do “we” go? Where do “we” fit in? Is there a place for us? Those of us who do believe strongly in the sanctity of human life and that abortion goes against God’s commands, but do not…
Democrats and Republicans are miles apart on social issues
Supporters of Joe Biden and Donald Trump see the world in almost polar opposite ways, according to new data from Pew Research. From gun violence to slavery to gender equity to religious liberty and sexual orientation, Democrats and Republicans express…
Most young people are unsettled in the new year but few plan to turn to the church for help
Young people in the United States are fearful about the new year but are not turning to churches or other faith communities for solace or guidance, according to a research group that tracks the spiritual lives and perspectives of Generation…
A home for outcasts or a keeper of the ‘sacred timeline’?
Recently my family and I have been watching Loki on Disney+. For those of you unfamiliar with the world of the Marvel universe, Loki is the god of mischief and an archvillain of the Avengers. At the beginning of the…
Social liberalism grows while economic conservatism still dominates
More Americans describe themselves as socially liberal than economically liberal, according to new polling data from Gallup. And for the first time, more Americans identify as social liberals than as social conservatives. “This is the first year in Gallup’s trend…
Dallas pastor pitches ‘Good God’ podcast toward the common good
George Mason describes his “Good God” podcast as a way to connect the dots between religion and just about everything else. “It’s educating, inspiring and creating civil discourse. It’s helping people bridge faith and public life,” said Mason, senior pastor…
Is this election all about abortion? It depends on who you ask
If you listen to the most conservative and most liberal activists, you would think the 2020 presidential election is all about abortion rights. It turns out that is not exactly true, although abortion remains a highly motivating factor for certain…
What I’ve learned about agreeing to disagree in contentious times
As a teacher for most of my adult life, I knew not everyone would — or should — blindly agree with my perspective. For at least two decades, I chose to teach my seminary graduate courses around conference tables rather…