The Progressive Reverend

 As we approach Lent, I look forward to our annual Shrove Tuesday pancake supper. However, as a minister, the season often weighs heavily on me. I feel it is time for me to pray much more, give up some of the comforts in life, and take on more tasks to show the world that I take Lent seriously. It is a time when I should be demonstrating to others that I truly feel the weight of Jesus’ suffering. Yes, we have often been taught that we should give up chocolate or coffee as an act of piety or suffering.  While this practice served a purpose in the past, it’s time for a revaluation. The Church has shifted its focus from promoting self-denial to positive actions. Yet even this can miss the mark, often adding more to our already busy calendars and unintentionally leading to self-righteousness. Let this not be a time for boasting and bragging.  So, let’s do something radically different this year.  Instead of focusing on what we should give up, let's focus o...

Last week, I attended the Chinook Winds Regional Clergy Retreat. Despite my initial lousy attitude, thinking it was just another obligation I didn't have time for, it was an excellent opportunity to rest, reflect, and play.  Part of the retreat was to meditate on our calling. Why were called to ministry? Of course, I could tell you right away, as an ordained ministry, that I was called to Word, Sacraments and Pastoral Care. But that is the general call. Why did God call me to be a minister?  There is no easy answer.  Modern-day ministry doesn't look much like it did 50 years ago. The primary task of a minister 50 years ago was preaching and making congregational visits. Today, ministers are tasked with preaching, pastoral care, administrative duties, visioning, overseeing the building, support committees, finding volunteers, stewardship, church growth and more.  The problem is I am not called to all of these tasks. While I am good at budgeting, I am not a firm a...

Many of us may feel overwhelmed by the challenges posed by Trump and his team of billionaires, as well as certain economic issues in Canada and various global concerns. However, this current situation provides Christians an opportunity to express their authentic voices and emerge as a powerful force for good.  Here are some solutions, revised from a recent Broadview Magazine article*, on how Jesus might respond to the world today. 1. Be Bold.  Last week, in a touching inaugural prayer service, Rt. Rev. Mariann Budde, the Episcopal bishop of Washington, D.C., reached out to Trump, encouraging him to show compassion for those affected by his policies. This courageous action speaks volumes and will certainly make an impact. For us in faith communities, it reminds us of the importance of engaging with our politicians and advocating for our values. Let’s unite with our friends from various denominations and faiths, as the time when a single church can affect change alone is over!...