Tag Archives: pastor

An Expert In My Own Grief

Expert was the word that made me laugh in her email. I do not feel like an expert in anything. I’ve rather owned that pastors are the last generalists. We dabble in this and that. We have a lot of theological thoughts (hopefully) and some leadership skills. We know a little of this and aContinue reading “An Expert In My Own Grief”

There’s No Place Like Home

Since I moved to Kansas, I find myself clicking my heels more and more.  I have no ruby red slippers but the mantra is the same, “There’s no place like home. There no place like home.” The problem is that I have no idea where home is. This was made clear to me again when IContinue reading “There’s No Place Like Home”

The Rise of the Consultant 

I can’t remember when I first heard the term. I do remember how I felt about it when I heard that there was such a thing as a church consultant. It was not pleasant. I was of the impression that it wasn’t anything that a pastor couldn’t do and I was a pastor.  I knewContinue reading “The Rise of the Consultant “

Interview Questions for the Searching Pastor

Spring is in the air and change seems to be sprouting in every which direction. Colleagues are quietly talking about their discernment. Questions are being asked about how to leave a ministry well and I admit I don’t have solid answers. I have left two churches and I’m still not sure I have done itContinue reading “Interview Questions for the Searching Pastor”

Lessons from the Past

After worship was over, in the middle of the Annual Meeting of this tiny church I’m serving as interim pastor, we shared in the work of memory. Earlier that week, I had taped a blue line upon the wall of the church hall with my trusty painter’s tape and chartered those significant events that IContinue reading “Lessons from the Past”

Last Minute Plans for Lent

Lent is just one week away. Most plans have already been laid out. It’s been printed in the newsletter and in the bulletin. Resources have been ordered. Palms have been burned. (I know because the traffic on this old post on how to make ashes skyrocketed two week ago.)  Some have already done their foodContinue reading “Last Minute Plans for Lent”