On many inventories in the articles concerning clergy self care, Christmas shows up as a significant contributor to clergy stress. In the ones I’ve seen, it’s not a question of whether the Christmas in the past year was particularly stressful. It’s included as “Check here if you lived through Christmas sometime in the past year”. […]
One Question
So, you’re feeling bored and maybe a little burned out in a congregation where the people are nice enough (except for the 1 or 2 that inevitably are trouble). It’s not that it’s a bad or particularly conflicted congregation. It’s just not going anywhere and seems content enough to just keep on with things as […]
What About the Building?
Many pastors I know, especially those who are part of “Main Line” franchises, are saddled with buildings. I’ve been saddled with several of them over the years. I know whereof I speak. Not all buildings are burdens. They can be assets. The buildings I’m talking about are big, ornate buildings that in their shabbiness reek […]
Advent
Apostate churches across America start singing Christmas carols today. Joy to the World and Silent Night. And why not? ‘Tis the season. What better way to declare your allegiance to the American Religion in the great Christmas war than to sing Christmas songs at every opportunity. Advent, though, is about learning to see the signs […]
Of Kings
Today, on the liturgical calendar of many churches, is “Christ the King” Sunday. Many a sermon will be preached on how “Christ is the King of all Creation.” This, in spite of every indication to the contrary in every day’s news. Maybe Christ will be king someday. But not today. Kings rule things. By definition. […]
Illegitimi non carborundum
The first snow here in Potsdam, NY happened two weeks ago. It was a mere dusting. The first real snow (predicted to be 3 inches in all) came this morning just before dawn, along with 20mph winds gusting to 40. Because the wind here is relentless year round. In all, for this part of the […]