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Poetry for Lessons and Carols
Several years ago, Bromleigh McCleneghan offered this possibility of poetry that might be included in our telling of the Christmas story. It’s a great list with excellent reflection as to why one would include poetry that you should totally… Continue reading
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Third Sunday in January
It’s 1963 again. These words ring so true. They speak to what I’m feeling and seeing. It feels like we’ve gone back in time — to an era when I wasn’t even alive — to a time that I have heard… Continue reading
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A Burst of Creativity
Once upon a time, I did art. My grandmother taught me to paint watercolors. I would escape with my great aunt to magically beautiful places she once shared with her sister — but now it was she that was teaching… Continue reading
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Thankfulness
Two weeks ago, a letter went to my congregation and I began the difficult work of saying goodbye. It’s different this time. I suppose it’s different every time. Last time, there were a lot more prayers. It’s not that I’m not… Continue reading
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90 Days
Our church recognizes that most relationships do not last forever. We also acknowledge that many reasons can lead to a separation. Thus, this pastoral call agreement can be terminated by either party giving at least 90 days’ written notice to the… Continue reading
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For All the Saints
There are two days on the church calendar when I simply cannot preach. There are two days when I know that my emotions will get the better of me — and I will likely not be able to proclaim the… Continue reading
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Nomination Season
In and around my church, committees and ministries have been meeting to find their agendas include the topic of nominations. It’s that time of year where we are looking to renew our leadership and invite those that have never considered… Continue reading
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Praising My Savior All the Day Long
Years ago, I read about an opportunity to explore narrative leadership in the back of The Christian Century. (Yes, it really is that wonderful of a publication that I mention it in two blog posts in a row.) I signed… Continue reading
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Words
On Saturday, I officiated a memorial service for one of the pillars of our church. For the past forty years, this man has demonstrated what it means to follow Jesus Christ within this tribe. He’s carried the mantle for justice… Continue reading
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Blessings on Your Right and on Your Left
The Exodus passage begs to be performed in some way and may be best done in a blessing. Using the aisle in your sanctuary (whether formed by pews or chairs), invite those being blessed this morning (Sunday School teachers, backpack… Continue reading
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Featured
Let’s get cooking
Cooking is always about imagination and possibility. It’s about what these things can become together and I don’t think using words to attempt to approach God is any different.
We need each other to find inspiration. We share recipes and try new things. We wonder about what else could work even when don’t feel the least bit creative.
These pages are all about helping each other to cook up some good trouble. If you don’t find what you’re searching for above, please drop me a line to see if we can stir up some goodness together.
WELCOME TO MY KITCHEN
There are stacks of cookbooks in my actual kitchen and probably a sink full of dirty dishes leftover from another delicious feast but my virtual kitchen is full of liturgies and resources to pepper the worship experience in your congregation with love and hope. Find something new over in my kitchen.
“Cooking [up good worship] is like love. It should be entered into with abandon or not at all.”
— Harriet Van Horn (adapted)
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Cooking with Elsa 