What does it mean to experience the Divine? That’s a very difficult question to answer. The experience of the Holy One is deeply personal. When the experience is new for someone, it can be confusing. But over time, it becomes familiar. Spiritual writers over the ages have used various images… Read More »The Experience of God
We gathered around a table for a small group discussion. The topic of the workshop was professional ethics for clergy. One of my colleagues shared: “I have a problem I’m not sure how to approach. A woman in my church, a leader and active member, emailed and said that she… Read More »Politics and Religion: Pastors’ Perceptions
Inspiration and spiritual growth can come from many sources, often from the unexpected. Have you been inspired by someone you least expected? The religious landscape of the United States is changing. The Pew Research Institute has found that over 20% of people in the United States describe themselves as having… Read More »The Patron Saint of the “Nones”
Have you ever questioned your faith or wondered if what you were taught was true for you? As a child, I learned about faith and religion from a catechism: a summary of principles of the Christian religion in the form of questions and answers. Catechisms were viewed as foundational among… Read More »Living the Questions
What makes the millennial generation so interesting? News stories, comedy shows, and researchers are all discussing millennials. McDonalds has introduced ordering by touch-screens to appeal to the millennial generation, the largest generational group in the United States Other businesses and organizations (including churches) look to increase their appeal to millennials… Read More »Millennials: Spirituality and Religion
For some time, there has been significant debate about whether or not the facts in the Bible are true. This debate has been framed in a variety of ways. In the early twentieth century, biblical scholars searched for evidence of the historical Jesus. School boards consider the merits of biblically… Read More »What Good Is Religion if the Facts Aren’t True?
It’s often said that religion and spirituality are fundamentally different. The arguments for this position go something like this. Religion is about dogma, fixed beliefs, and rituals to which people must adhere. Spirituality is individualized, focused on experience, and free flowing. At face value, there’s something to be said for… Read More »Religion and Spirituality: How Different Are They?
It’s not something I had previously said in a sermon or congregational meeting . It’s one of those things that I’ve said to friends and colleagues but when with general church members, I’ve held my tongue. But a few Sunday’s ago, the level of my frustration was rising and the… Read More »Am I a Buddhist?