Latest Articles
Jesus on the Sidelines
Americanized Christians have made a recent substitution, replacing one player for another star. With this long-revered figure now on the sidelines, many are struggling to know how to proceed.
Advent Lectionary | The Earliest Soundtrack
The Gospel of Luke opens with a series of songs, which offer the earliest soundtrack to the Advent season. Of the four, Zechariah’s Benedictus is the most sophisticated.
U.S. Protestant Congregations See Finances Stabilizing
Many Protestant churches in the U.S. have seen their finances stabilize after a volatile 2020, a survey found. A majority report that giving was either the same as last year or had increased in 2021.
‘White Equals Right’ Mentality Continues Today
The men who chased and killed Ahmaud Arbery went home after the incident, only facing charges after a public outcry. Called ‘self-defense’ by some; others have described it as a ‘modern-day lynching.’
Organ Donation Disparities Rooted in Social, Economic Inequity
Scapegoating always serves to avoid a deeper look at the underlying conditions that caused social issues, including health care access and outcomes. Here is what you need to know about racial disparities in organ donations and transplants.
Government Restrictions on Religion at All-Time High in 2019
Government restrictions on religion were at an all-time high in 2019, according to a Pew Research Center report. Social hostility toward religion declined for the second year in a row.
Thank You, God
Fred Rogers spoke often of gratitude, encouraging one particular action of those he spoke to at graduations and other special events. This practice is beneficial at Thanksgiving and throughout the year.
U.S. Majority Says People, Not God, Responsible for World’s Suffering
Most U.S. adults blame people, not God or a higher power, for the world’s suffering, a report published by Pew Research Center found.
Six Dos and Don’ts Surrounding Grief
The holiday season following a significant loss is often the hardest, so compassion, care, kindness and patience should guide interactions during this stressful time. Here are six dos and don’ts.
Look Back | Let’s Build on the Good of Thanksgiving Day
Thanksgiving in the U.S. is a wonderful time for friends and family, fellowship and food, gratitude and graciousness. Let’s extend this attitude beyond the holiday by practicing neighborliness year-round in practical, tangible ways.
Gratitude Expresses Itself Best in Generosity
Much of the U.S. gathers around tables this week, expressing thanks for life’s blessings. Yet, there is a fuller way to express our thankfulness than pausing to offer words of gratitude.
Advent Lectionary | Hope, the Thing With Feathers
Faced with uncertainty, how do we move forward? From poets to prophets to praise songs, we’re reminded that hope can buoy us and enable us to carry on.
Your Story Could Light the Way for Others
We might think personal stories and experiences are insignificant, but they will be priceless for close friends and family. They can also illuminate the pathway for others.
Two Words That Explain the Kyle Rittenhouse Acquittal
A jury in Kenosha, Wisconsin, found Kyle Rittenhouse not guilty of all charges on Nov. 19. Two words have been used to explain the decision, but those are not the words that reveal the basis for this acquittal.
This Thanksgiving, Leave a Lasting Message
Awkward conversations seem inevitable at Thanksgiving tables, but they don’t have to be. Rather than make your point by shouting across the table, consider leaving a more lasting message by your example.
Can You Remain Hopeful but Not Optimistic?
What is the difference between optimism and hope? Let’s consider these terms, reflect on whether you can be one without the other, and discuss why it matters.