Browsing by Sharron R. Blezard
A Tough Teaching
Lectionary Reflection for the Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost, Year B, August 23, 2015
Yes, this is a difficult teaching, but is there really anything else worth learning? We’re at the end of the “Bread of Life” series of lessons in the Year B of the Revised Common Lectionary, complete with Peter’s confession. The key is how to make it our confession today. (Photo: Fotolia)
Hungry Hungry Humans and the Bread of Life
Twelfth Sunday after Pentecost Year B Lectionary Reflection, August 16, 2015
If you’re ever played the game “Hungry Hungry Hippos” you may have a good image for this Sunday’s gospel reading. Curious? Read on! You can even find out how to make a “Hungry Hungry Human Game.” (Photo: Chris, Creative Commons)
Less Fuss, More Feasting
Lectionary Reflection for the 11th Sunday after Pentecost, Year B, August 9, 2015
It’s oh so easy to focus on the negatives in life and in our congregations. Jesus instructs us to choose another way, to feast on the Bread of Life and follow his lead. (Photo:Just Cook NYC, Creative Commons License)
Little Things Make a Difference
In light of Pope Francis’ encyclical on climate change and the effects of our consumer culture on the planet and particularly on the poor, author Tom Beutel examines small ways we can choose to make a bigger difference. He also provides links to excellent resources. (Photo © Dmitry Rukhlenko – Fotolia.com)
Vacation? Turn Off Tech. Turn On Life.
Did you check your work email while on vacation? Chances are you did. This article examines our addiction to technology and the need for a break. Read Lloyd Alter’s article and then consider how you might enjoy a digital Sabbath. (Photo: Mike Prosser, Creative Commons)
Why Your Church Needs Mobile Giving
Here in three easy to understand charts is proof that your congregation needs (or at least should consider) mobile giving. The times they are a’changing. (Photo: )
Non-Perishable Discipleship
Tenth Sunday after Pentecost, Year B, August 2, 2015
Hungry people and perishing food do not make for a pleasing combination or happy picture, especially in light of this week’s gospel lesson (John 6:24-35) where we feast on the image of Jesus as the bread of life, as food that does not perish. There’s a stewardship connection here it would seem. (Photo US Department of Agriculture, Creative Commons)
Wholehearted Stewardship
This article from ECF Vital Practices poses the question “What is keeping us from living into fundraising as a wholehearted ministry?” Using Brene Brown’s TED Talk “The Power of Vulnerability,” author Erin Weber-Johnson hallmarks of a successful parish stewardship program. Photo: (Photo © Strezhnev Pavel – Fotolia.com)
Looking for a Summer Movie?
If you’re looking for a summer movie to compliment a study of environmental stewardship and climate change, check out the documentary Merchants of Doubt. Interfaith Power and Light has produced a faith-based study guide for the film. Click here for information about the film. (Photo: Ginny, Creative Commons)
Is Busyness is Killing Us?
Being “crazy busy” all the time runs counter to God’s command for Sabbath rest and renewal, and a frequent lament is  that busyness is ruining the quality of life. Here’s an article that addresses the need to question a “crazy busy” lifestyle. While faith is not addressed, we think you’ll make the connections. How might […]
