

Time to Regroup
I consider myself an introvert. When needed, I can handle myself in large groups, I can be social, I can hold conversations about all sorts of topics. But I'm most comfortable hanging back, just listening to other people talk. I really prefer small groups. I tend to believe that Jesus was a bit of an introvert, also. We know that crowds of people followed him. But sometimes we forget "the rest" of the story: Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and

What is a Christian?
It is with sadness and also a bit of ire that I feel moved to ask this question. The ire comes from people like Vladimir Putin, who claims to be a defender of the faith while unleashing a totally unnecessary, brutal, and purposefully cruel war. Not a Christian. Mr. Putin is the poster boy for this, but examples abound of public figures wrapping themselves in the mantle of faith while spewing hatred, fear, and division. Not Christians. Now, I do not know what is in these perso


Peace, Hope, Joy and Promise
I just completed a four-session bible study with Pastor Mark that focused on passages from the book of Isaiah. These verses deal directly with the four keywords in the title above. As I reflect on the messages from this study I see the parallels to the experiences we in our worshipping community at St. Stephen’s are now experiencing. In the bible, Isaiah prophesizes a time when the people of Jerusalem and of Judah will be at peace. ”They shall beat their swords into plowsha

Thank you!
Thank you! I continue to be amazed by the generosity of so many people at St. Stephen’s. First of all, thank you for the generous gift given to me and the staff at St. Stephen’s. It’s a tangible way of knowing that our efforts are appreciated. And it inspires us to re-dedicate ourselves to doing the best jobs we are able. And thank you for all the work you are doing to keep St. Stephen’s standing as an ensign and witness on North Broom Street. First, we are a small group, and