by Justin Cox | Oct 22, 2025 | Opinion
There are a few truths for a minister in congregational life: A bedside visitation will do more for you than a three-point sermon. If you encounter the demonic, it will likely come from a copy machine or a choir member. A casserole dish is more useful than a stole....
by Leah Davis | Aug 19, 2025 | Opinion
On a recent Sunday, I confessed to my suburban Washington, D.C. congregation something I had never done before in nearly 20 years of preaching and pastoring: I scrapped the previously written sermon and started over on Saturday night. Sure, I have altered sermons the...
by Starlette Thomas | Aug 18, 2025 | Opinion
Preaching is resurrection practice. It’s an odd rehearsal. The preacher’s robe is from the grave clothes section of liturgical garments. One foot in front of the other, we, preachers, are led to the pulpit “like a sheep led to the slaughter,” sometimes foolishly...
by Brian Harrington | Jun 30, 2025 | News
A few months ago, only moments after I finished co-officiating my aunt’s memorial service, the other minister told me that he found the words of my eulogy to be “brave.” I kindly thanked him for what I understood to be a compliment, but the description of my words as...
by Barry Howard | Jun 16, 2025 | Opinion
When I learned of Dr. John Killinger’s passing on June 5, 2025, at the age of 91, I found myself reflecting with deep gratitude on a friendship that spanned 35 years and had a profound influence on my life and ministry. Respected as one of America’s most gifted...
