Tag: Church
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The Welcoming Congregation
I’ve written another book review for the Englewood Review of Books. “You’re going to preach an entire sermon series about hospitality?” This was a friend’s confused response as I was sharing about my preaching plans. She conceded that hospitality might merit some discussion but couldn’t imagine that the topic warranted more than one sermon. Her…
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Ekklesia Project Gathering: Slow Church
Last week I attended my second Ekklesia Project gathering located, conveniently enough for me, on the campus of Loyola University in Chicago. There is a lot about this group I really like and Debra Dean Murphy has a great summary of the gathering that points out much of what I appreciate. In plenary sessions, break-out…
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“…refusing to do evil to their friends.”
In particular you will be called to be present to your people when their lives are in crisis. Do not be surprised, however, because you have been present at such times those to whom you have been present will find it difficult to love you. Because you are a priest you will be welcomed by…
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“Crowds are a worse danger…” cont.
A pastor recently left a lengthy and incredibly thoughtful comment on a post from last year. In that post I quoted Eugene Peterson twice from his memoir about the danger of churches becoming crowds. I’m copying the entire comment here as this pastor’s experience and perspective is one that should be heard. Peterson’s statements hit…
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Meals With Friends: Your Home or a Restaraunt?
On Sunday our church begins a series of sermons about hospitality. Related to this topic is something I often wonder about: Why has the setting for meals with friends and family shifted from the home to the restaurant? There must be many reasons for this (and I realize this shift isn’t true for everyone): less…
David W. Swanson 