ADVOCATE
A sense of. . .others
By: So far, all of you who are avid readers of the President’s Message know that this page has focused this year on having A Sense of….Purpose, Humor, and, for this issue, Others. It has been my observation that many people seem to lack this particular “sense.” They...
God’s surprising wonders
By: Sometimes the wonders of God come as a surprise—apparitions from elsewhere in God’s grace without explanation or a proper sense of why. The wonders of God also come through hard work, a life of discipleship, commitment to God and others. In a sense, we could say...
Surrounded by superlatives
By: King Nebuchadnezzar to everyone, everywhere—every race, color, and creed: “Peace and prosperity to all! It is my privilege to report to you the gracious miracles that the High God has done for me. His miracles are staggering, his wonders are...
Experiencing God’s surprising wonders at our Annual Event
By: The scripture verse chosen for the APCE Annual Event 2012 is Daniel 4:3: “God’s miracles are staggering, God’s wonders are surprising.” Come and be surprised when we gather in Grand Rapids! At each committee planning meeting, someone always...
Education that empowers learners and integrates faith
By: A first glance at the educational ministries of First Presbyterian Church, Tuscaloosa, AL, reveals similar ministries found in churches across the country, a variety of opportunities for all ages and stages of learners throughout the week. Deeper review indicates...
The call doesn’t end with retirement
By: Linda Williams Being called to the vocation of a Christian educator does not always end when an educator packs up his or her books, markers, folders and file cabinet contents; or when the church throws a farewell/thank you retirement party. And retirement isn’t...
Stretching the boundaries of educational ministry
By: Small Church Born of Water, Born of Spirit: Supporting the Ministry of the Baptized in Small Congregations, by Sheryl A. Kujawa-Holbrook and Fredrica Harris Thompsett. Alban, 2010. The stories of the congregations revealed in this book serve to inspire us about...
A sense of…humor
By: During an adult Sunday School class in which we were discussing the various facts and myths that surround Epiphany, it was noted that Jesus was probably two years old when the wise men made their visit. I don’t know why I see so much humor in scripture, but...
For a time such as this
By: Debbie Hough In the midst of the cultural upheaval of the 1960s, Bob Dylan sang these words: “…the times they are a changin’….” In the 2010s I find myself singing the same song. Change is everywhere. To give you some perspective, you should know that I have been a...
Crossing
By: A big part of my role as a general presbyter is accompanying congregations in transition. I fill newly vacant pulpits, consult with congregational leaders, orient search committees, give feedback on résumé drafts, and listen to hopes and dreams as leaders discern...