Among the many failings of capital punishment is its disproportionate use against people of color, its failure to deter violent crime and the spiritual and emotional trauma it inflicts on families, jurors and prison guards, death penalty abolitionist Michael Stone…
American churches turn to prayer and song in solidarity with Ukraine
On the first Sunday of Russia’s brutal invasion of Ukraine, churches across America took to their knees and their feet, and turned to song and silence to utter their prayers for Ukrainians under siege. “When people were sharing their prayer…
After Hurricane Ida, CBF churches urged to prepare to help when the time is right
Ministers and congregations eager to provide material assistance to Louisiana and Mississippi residents affected by Hurricane Ida are mostly going to have to wait before taking action, Cooperative Baptist Fellowship leaders and ministers said during an Aug. 30 Zoom call….
‘Gutsy church with a gutsy female pastor’ hosts Clintons in New Orleans
I want to be an innovator and I want to be part of this new thing being born.
Some pastors face big challenges preaching on Charlottesville, white supremacy
The pressures to remain silent on difficult topics originate from more than current events like Charlottesville. They also tap into existing concerns about church decline and growth and a desire for ministers be pastoral, not prophetic, in their ministry.
A dose of kindness in the midst of a vitriolic presidential campaign
I am taking slow, deep breaths to center myself after a third presidential debate and another week of reading too many articles about our world, our nation and the upcoming election. When I scroll past another story, another statistic, a…
Eating Rice Krispy treats amidst the devastation of south Louisiana
Darren and Marianne were preparing to celebrate their twins’ second birthday with friends and family. Marianne made Rice Krispy treats and cut them out in Mickey Mouse shapes to serve at the party. They knew it would be a rainy…
Finding a way forward: A church rooted in its community
Just over two and a half years ago, I stepped into the pulpit at St. Charles Avenue Baptist Church for the first time and preached about the uncertain future we were entering together. Like so many churches across the United…