Browsing by Sharron R. Blezard
Visions, Dreams, and Bold Response
Sixth Sunday of Easter Lectionary Reflection, May 5, 2013
What does it mean to have vision? How is God speaking to you and to your faith community? Who is that “man from Macedonia†in your dreams? Who or what is calling you to faithful action and holy response? (Photo: © bonniemarie – Fotolia.com)
Four Things You Need to Know about Young Donors
A recent study by the Johnson Center for Philanthropy at Grand Valley State University shows that young donors are much more likely to give to causes than institutions and are less favorably inclined to support religious groups. This is not all bad news according to Nathan Kirkpatrick of Duke Divinity School, who cites four trends […]
Developing a Planned Giving Program
Click here to explore “Elements of a Successful Planned Giving Program” on the Unitarian Universalist Association of Congregations website. This guide covers the basics and provides solid resources to begin a conversation in your context about gift planning. (Photo: David Morris, Creative Commons License. Thanks!)
Tough Love
Lectionary Reflection for the Fifth Sunday of Easter April 28, 2013 I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.†John 13:34-35 It sounds […]
A Steward’s Psalm for All Seasons and Reasons
Lectionary Reflection for the Fourth Sunday of Easter Year C, April 21, 2013
Psalm 23 is probably the most beloved and oft-spoken one in the Psalter, but do we truly recognize, honor, and harness its power and praise to guide our lives in all times and in all places? Why not consider this powerful song of praise and promise this Sunday? (Photo: © CURAphotography – Fotolia.com)
The Ways of Love
Lectionary Reflection for the Third Sunday of Easter, April 14, 2013
What do love, fishing, and discipleship have in common? This week’s gospel lesson offers some good answers. (Photo:© Olga Khoroshunova – Fotolia.com)
Doubt, Belief, and Life in Jesus’ Name
Second Sunday of Easter Lectionary Reflection, April 7, 2013
What do doubt, belief, and life in the name of Christ have in common? A lot! This Sunday’s gospel reading offers rich material to consider why it matters that we continue to gather, to tell the stories of faith, and to encounter Jesus. (Photo by Christine Matthews. Thanks!)
Here, There, & Everywhere: Jesus is Risen!
Easter is an important day in the life of the church, but how does the rest of the world see it? As an “idle tale”? Maybe we all need to look at Easter through a new lens. (Photo © compuinfoto – Fotolia.com)
Creating a Final File
Do you have an “In Case of Death” file? If not, check out this short article about how to create one. Putting your affairs in order is part of good stewardship. (Photo: © Maxim_Kazmin – Fotolia.com)
Palm/Passion Sunday: Living the Story
Palm/Passion Sunday Lectionary Reflection, March 24, 2013
This Sunday’s worship may be the only bridge some folks have to Easter. What can we do to help folks live this story all week long? (Photo: © Cheryl Casey – Fotolia.com)
