This is what a branch of the ginkgo tree outside our church looks like as of this afternoon.  A closer look reveals the unique fan-shaped leaves already there, in miniature form, ready to push out and expand. On the Tree of Life, ginkgos occupy their own branch, the sole survivor…

The first Good Friday was a public event.  By design, crucifixions took place in highly visible places.  At a crossroads, on a hill, wherever the state executions could be noticed.  This strategy served as a deterrent to whoever witnessed it.  Whatever that person did, DON’T DO IT, or that could…

Our worship theme for Lent has been “Thrown Alongside.”  That’s the literal translation of the Greek word for parable.  Throughout the season, we’ve been pondering parables and stories from Luke in which Jesus throws his listeners alongside a compassionate Samaritan, a prodigal father, a wealth gap that stretches from Hades…

Some of the most formative moments of my faith journey happened in the back of crowded church vans, around late-night campfires, or in the midst of a packed worship hall filled with hundreds of other young people. I grew up in the Disciples of Christ denomination, and the Ohio Region…

Growing up, I paid little attention to Lent. I anticipated Good Friday and Easter, but the 40 days leading up to those passed by in a blur of normalcy. I was vaguely aware of Friday Fish Fry meals at local parishes, and haphazardly attempted to “give up” something for Lent…