2. everyday practice; living body,
Ever wondered what’s cooking in the minds of our diverse Presbyterian leaders? We’ve got the inside scoop! Hear their soul talk, get inspired by their ministry stories, and pick up some savvy spiritual practices along the way.
Confidentiality; a Cornerstone of Pastoral Care
I firmly believe in pastoral care's unique and essential role, which is distinct from therapy sessions, preaching, and worship. My own faith journey has been deeply enriched by the pastoral care provided by PCUSA ministers, who supported me in various forms, alongside therapists, friends, and congregations. As pastors, it seems crucial that we embrace and carefully fulfill this distinct role of pastoral care, especially in communities where the congregation may be smaller but tightly knit.
Clergy in Collars, Getting Coffee
The pandemic took a very interesting turn. The number of pastors began podcasting, YouTubing, Instagramming, TikTok-ing, and hosting webinars. [...] It’s hard to pick out which podcast to listen to, video to watch, or webinar to join. I am sharing these podcasts by Leah Ntuala, not because they are the most advanced forms, but because they represent the authentic voice of pastoral conversation about the daily experiences of pastors. Please note, “everyday” is not synonymous with average or common. We are still on a journey of defining what “everyday” entails, so let’s not rush to conclusions. I hope you can hear the authentic yet unique voices of pastors from them.
Is an apology enough?
Over the past several years, the Office of Theology and Worship (PMA), in partnership with Native American Intercultural Congregational Support (PMA), has been contemplating and discussing the General Assembly referrals concerning the impact of the Doctrine of Discovery. Together, we navigated its profound implications for various Native American communities and the crucial steps to move forward. Initially tasked with developing resources and curricula, we soon realized the complexity of these endeavors far exceeded our initial expectations.
Celebrating Women’s History Month
Celebrating Women’s History Month, ironically, I found some inspiration in the form of the theatre performance "Becoming a Man.” It is a story of a woman’s body transitioning to a man’s body, how it could entail complications in relationships, friendships, mental health, and physical health, and how it is a life-death decision that is complex with heavyweight yet with hopeful possibility for the liberation in the future only when you are true to yourself past and present. [...] Celebrating Women’s History Month with genuine heart, soul, and body, along with all communities’ history with uniqueness, I carefully raise these questions. Not to erase anybody’s identity, but to truly embrace who…
Christian Zionism?
Amidst the global movement for peace in Gaza, it may be useful to investigate one facet of the Israel-Palestine conflict: Christian Zionism. Please note: This exploration offers just a glimpse into the intricate dynamics of the region. This blog post is not intended to endorse any political stance or theological doctrine. Rather, it aims to shed light on a historical and theological aspect that has influenced the evolving landscape, offering insights that could prove valuable to the church community.
- 1. everyday theology; thinking soul, 2. everyday practice; living body,, 3. everyday spirituality; praying heart
Thinking, Praying, and Living Our Faith in God
In November 2023, during the Moderator’s Conference of PC(USA), the Office of Theology and Worship embarked on a significant endeavor tied to our everyday responsibilities, as previously mentioned in one of our blog posts in November. At the conference, we delved into the themes of Thinking, Praying, and Living, emphasizing their profound importance in our mission and ministry. [...] I am delighted to share this reflection on our work three months after the Moderator's Conference, underscoring the interconnectedness of thinking Soul, praying Heart, and living within the Body of Christ. This frame is reflected well in our current Everyday God-talk blog “categories.” It is through this holistic approach that we…
Celebrating Everyday Heroes in Black History Month
Today, as we kick off Black History Month, I want to bring attention to a significant initiative by PHS on their blog: the "African American Leaders" series, which was initiated in 2023. This project sheds light on the history of African American leaders in the PC(USA), depicting the everyday reality of these individuals within the denomination. While some are well-known figures, many are still to be recognized as extraordinary everyday heroes and saints in our church.
Racism as a Public Health Crisis
In 2022, the 225th General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA) reviewed, approved, and transmitted a resolution from the Racial Equity Advocacy Committee (REAC) identifying racism as a public health crisis. This resolution urged Presbyterians to raise their consciousness and awareness about this crisis's theological, bioethical, and public health perspectives and to respond with specific actions. The subsequent statement briefly delineates key theological and bioethical affirmations central to this crisis, aiming to heighten the church’s awareness. REAC monitored, reviewed, and revised the statement accordingly.
Prayers for the Unfathomable Humanity
I’d never say that we must understand and forgive those who harm us physically, emotionally, and mentally, whether with or without harmful intent. I always ache and empathize with victims and survivors first, and that’s my usual tendency. However, this week, I found myself thinking about those who were forced and driven to choose to harm and end the lives of others. How can they do that? Are they human?
Celebrating Indigenous People’s Day in a Global Community
Being mindful of that privilege, there's an exciting event on the horizon for us all in the United States. In 2023, October 9th marks Indigenous People's Day, a day of celebration and recognition. [...] Every year, it prompts us to reflect on the un-Christian aspects of the papal Doctrine of Discovery.