As the fireworks are being prepared for America’s historic 250th birthday, how do we as progressive people of faith live into the future? On Sunday, July 5th, we will explore the theme of “Prophetic Patriotism.” Drawing from Matthew 11:28–30, we will discover that true love for our nation doesn’t mean offering blind allegiance to a… Continue reading Prophetic Patriotism and a community picnic this Sunday
Tag: Sun City AZ
Prophetic Patriotism: Reflecting on America at 250
As our nation approaches its 250th anniversary this July, we find ourselves inundated with grand celebrations, parades, and highly publicized spectacles. For many in progressive communities of faith, this milestone can stir complicated feelings. We are often told that patriotism means blind allegiance, uncritical praise, or aligning ourselves with whatever political philosophy currently holds power.… Continue reading Prophetic Patriotism: Reflecting on America at 250
Widening Our Circle: Celebrating Pride Sunday
On June 28, our community will gather for a vital and vibrant celebration as our LGBTQ+ Team leads us in worship for Pride Sunday. This morning is more than a highlight on our calendar; it is a profound declaration of who we are called to be. Our faith teaches us a simple, beautiful truth: we… Continue reading Widening Our Circle: Celebrating Pride Sunday
Why Juneteenth Matters: Freedom, Justice, and the Church
Juneteenth marks a vital turning point in our national story. On June 19, 1865—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation—enslaved Black Americans in Galveston, Texas, finally learned they were free. For the United States, Juneteenth is a necessary confrontation with history. It reminds us that freedom delayed is freedom denied, urging us to dismantle… Continue reading Why Juneteenth Matters: Freedom, Justice, and the Church
Little Free Library
Right at our front door of The Church of the Palms, we have a specialized Little Free Library dedicated entirely to sharing banned and challenged books. In a world where important voices and stories are too often silenced, this little box stands as a beacon of free expression and intellectual freedom. It is completely open… Continue reading Little Free Library
Dear Church Family
Sometimes my words are poor tools with which to express the emotions of the heart. Please know my deep, heart-felt gratitude for the opportunity to live and work among you on this common journey. Celebrating ten years together was truly perfect, perfectly capturing the incredible “power of us.” I am deeply moved by your kindness.… Continue reading Dear Church Family
Ten years, ten milestones
Ten years ago, on June 1st, I began my ministry with the Church of the Palms, and what a transformative journey it has been. Together, we have co-created a community that truly reflects the Kin-dom of God. It has never been about one person; it is about the power of us—a collective moving in spirit… Continue reading Ten years, ten milestones
What do you take with you when you may never come back?
What do you take with you when you may never come back? When a hurricane approached one community, the evacuation order came. The locals had just a few hours to decide what to take with them as they fled for their lives. A couple of reporters from The Washington Post caught up with some of… Continue reading What do you take with you when you may never come back?
Wear red for Pentecost this Sunday, May 24
This Sunday, we celebrate Pentecost—the vibrant “birthday of the church.” We remember the story of the Holy Spirit descending like tongues of fire, breaking down barriers of language and geography to unite a diverse community in a common vision. In our progressive tradition, Pentecost is more than a historical event; it is a divine call… Continue reading Wear red for Pentecost this Sunday, May 24
Celebrating the Divine Tapestry: Mental Health Sunday
On May 17, our community gathers to celebrate Mental Health Sunday. It is a day to recognize that mental health is more than the absence of illness; as the World Health Organization defines it, it is a state of well-being that enables us to cope with stress, realize our abilities, and contribute meaningfully to our… Continue reading Celebrating the Divine Tapestry: Mental Health Sunday