In a world that often feels chaotic and demanding, our 2025 church theme – “Imagine! Doing justice, loving kindness, and walking humbly with God,” – offers us a profound and refreshingly simple guide for living a life of purpose and connection. Micah’s timeless question, “What does the Lord require of you…?” resonates deeply with our… Continue reading What Does the Lord Require? Come and See!
Category: Pastor Paul’s Ponderings and Letters
ONA Sunday: June 29
When God created humanity, there were no duplicates, only a kaleidoscope of unique individuals. Every hue, every body, every story, every stage of life, every transformation—all were declared “very good.” From Genesis to the prophets, the Gospels, and Acts, the consistent message is clear: God embraces all without partiality. God isn’t confused or surprised by… Continue reading ONA Sunday: June 29
On this Juneteenth, are you a thermometer or a thermostat?
On this Juneteenth, are you a thermometer or a thermostat? Martin Luther King Jr. often used the analogy of a “thermostat” versus a “thermometer” to describe the role of individuals in society. A thermometer passively records the temperature, while a thermostat actively works to regulate and change it. He spoke about the Church being a… Continue reading On this Juneteenth, are you a thermometer or a thermostat?
Rating Professor Jesus?
Here’s a thought: what if Jesus’s followers reviewed him like students review their professors? While that might sound strange, it’s actually the core of Amanda Lehr’s thesis, which you can explore in the Coconut section. I’ve taken her intriguing idea and added my own peculiar twist. Professor Jesus’ reviews from students like you and me:… Continue reading Rating Professor Jesus?
Moving Forward Together: Confidence in Our Leadership
As many of you know, our beloved Pastor Jim is transitioning from his role, and we extend our deepest gratitude for their dedicated service and leadership among us. While change can naturally bring a sense of uncertainty, we want to assure you, our cherished church family, of the unwavering strength and commitment of our current… Continue reading Moving Forward Together: Confidence in Our Leadership
New Pope; A New Day!
The death of Pope Francis and the election of Pope Leo XIV signals a change in the Catholic leadership. My prayer is that the new pope will continue to lead the church in progressive directions. Forty-two years ago, I met Pope John Paul II. Here are a few memories of that meeting. My college choir… Continue reading New Pope; A New Day!
With Hearts Full of Gratitude: Celebrating Pastor Jim’s Ministry
As the season turns, so too does a chapter in the life of our church. It is with a mix of sadness and deep gratitude that we acknowledge Pastor Jim’s upcoming departure from the church. His last Sunday with us will be September 14. He’s been a guiding light whose ministry has touched countless lives… Continue reading With Hearts Full of Gratitude: Celebrating Pastor Jim’s Ministry
A deeper reflection on the true meaning of remembrance
As Memorial Day approaches, our thoughts often turn to flags waving, parades marching, and the start of summer gatherings. While these traditions hold their own significance, this day calls us to a deeper reflection on the true meaning of remembrance and our ongoing commitment to peace and justice. As we observe Memorial Day, our hearts… Continue reading A deeper reflection on the true meaning of remembrance
You Are Not Alone: Supporting Our Mental Well-Being
This Sunday we’re celebrating Mental Health Sunday. In our vibrant and compassionate community, we recognize a fundamental truth: everyone, at some point, experiences struggles with their mental well-being. Life’s journey brings joys and challenges, and it’s perfectly normal to navigate periods of anxiety, sadness, or overwhelm. At The Church of the Palms, we are trying… Continue reading You Are Not Alone: Supporting Our Mental Well-Being
Letter writing is still a powerful tool.
We’re in a strange world, but letter writing is still a powerful tool with which to express our opinions. In my ministry infancy, I titled my written message to the congregation I was serving: A Letter from Paul. I liked the play-on-words of that title and it has stuck for the past forty years. I… Continue reading Letter writing is still a powerful tool.