These days it is easy to feel overwhelmed by bad news and sad news, so what’s the good news? Thinking about this I wrote the following short, “I believe” statement. I decided that I would write my statement in ten phrases. My statement does not dwell on Christianity, but it is deeply informed by my… Read more DAVID’S DIARY … I BELIEVE
The actions of Stephen Paddock were acts of domestic terrorism. There is no reason to call them by any other name. Yet, even now, while the nation is reeling from the shooting in Las Vegas that resulted in the death of at least 59 people and left more than 500 people injured, Congress is planning… Read more DAVID’S DIARY … THOUGHTS ON GUN VIOLENCE
Next Tuesday, October 2, is remembered in many parts of the world as the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi. He was born 147 years ago, in 1869. In honor of his life and his message of non-violence the United Nations has declared October 2, to be the International Day of Nonviolence. It is interesting to note… Read more DAVID’S DIARY … NONVIOLENCE
In my role as interim pastor one of the things I have suggested to the Mission Council is that I think it will be helpful for the congregation and the next pastor to be clear about expectations and priorities. The following is one way to begin thinking about this. The article is a bit long… Read more DAVID’S DIARY …
September 11, is a complicated date for me. I had a friend in the Twin Towers on September 11, 2011. I had the privilege of visiting with her when she returned to Kansas not long after the events of that tragic day. Her story of fleeing the collapsing buildings, crossing the Hudson River, and finding… Read more DAVID’S DIARY … A COMPLICATED HISTORY
I would remind us all once again that when disaster strikes the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) is ready to respond thanks to your generous support of the Week of Compassion. Contributions can be made through Pine Valley, simply write “Hurricane Relief” in the memo section of your check. Thank you. Please keep DACA children… Read more DAVID’S DIARY … REFLECTIONS ON THE WEEK
The Week of Compassion is the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) window of mission to the world. A quick check of the Week of Compassion website shows that our support of this ministry helps to alleviate suffering, provide humanitarian aid, and support sustainable development in many parts of the world. For example, in 2017, Week… Read more David’s Diary: Hurricane Harvey: What can I do?
In the old days school began in September, after Labor Day, but this weekend I listened to stories of my grandchildren as they anticipate their first day back in school. One of my favorite bumper stickers says: “If you can read this, thank a teacher.” We can all thank our teachers both for the skills… Read more David’s Diary
Forward Together is the title of one of Dr. William Barber’s books. Next Sunday, August 13, we will show the video of Dr. Barber’s address to the Disciples of Christ General Assembly. You can also see some of his sermons and talks on online. He is the pastor of Greenleaf Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)… Read more David’s Diary
In a conversation after worship someone suggested to me that we show the film clip of the Rev. Dr. William Barber II during worship instead of before or after worship. What a good idea! So, as part of the sermon this Sunday I will use a short clip of Dr. Barber and then give an… Read more David’s Diary