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.
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…
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.
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.
Seeing God in Sarang’s company to Pinto and Toby
Hey there, wonderful Everyday God-talk community! 🌟 This week, let's take a moment to reflect on how we connect with the divine through our relationships with other living beings. And guess what? These beings don't have to fit into the traditional categories of "spouses," "partners," or "children." They can be our beloved furry friends - our cats and dogs. 🐱🐶 But today, I want to introduce you to a companion animal that's still somewhat unusual but gaining popularity - the charming hedgehog! 🦔
Psalmtember & Marcus Hong
Ah, September, you enchanting month! It's that time of the year when we desperately try to grasp onto the fading warmth of summer while eagerly embracing the most charming season of all – autumn (if you're lucky enough to experience all four seasons). In many corners of the United States, September marks the return to school – a fresh start, a rekindling of connections, and a return to that familiar circle of friends, colleagues, and a home away from home, distinct from our summer retreats. Now, let me introduce you to our enthusiastic friend, Marcus Hong, who's declared a month ago, "It's that time again! Just a little over two…
Climate Justice and Evangelism Sunday 🌍🙏
This past Sunday was truly a remarkable day for countless Presbyterians, each with their own unique reasons to celebrate. For some, it was a Sunday devoted to the pursuit of Evangelism, fueled in part by the tireless efforts of the dedicated individuals behind the ministry of Theology, Formation, and Evangelism within the Presbyterian Mission Agency. A heartfelt round of applause is in order for the incredible contributions to the Evangelism Sunday resources of Miatta Wilson, Nikki Collins, Carlton Johnson, and yours truly. 👏
Education and Laura Zhang Choi
Hey there, meet Laura Zhang-Choi – a fantastic individual with a name that'll pique your curiosity if you're familiar with Asian surnames! As a fellow member of the Korean diaspora, I can tell you that her heritage is a beautiful blend of both Chinese and Korean roots. Laura was born into a Chinese diaspora family and found her love story with a Korean diaspora family. Yet, at the core of her being, she's all about being American, just like her entire family. Laura's on a mission to make her community shine brighter, and her secret sauce? A whole lot of love and a commitment to educating the children in her…