Over the course of the last week, I had the privilege of speaking to two vastly different groups about the urgent need in the church for restorative grace for pastors. The first was a gathering of seminary students in St. Louis, at Covenant Seminary. The second group was mostly made up of seasoned pastors from … Continue reading A Good, Hard Look at Ourselves – for pastors, ex-pastors and other Church leaders.
Years ago, when I was pastoring, I asked one of the ladies at our church to create a banner around the Latin term “Sursum Corda.” She did a fabulous job, visually depicting the concept of what the term literally means: “Up with Your Heart!” Hanging for all to see at the front of the church, … Continue reading The Thankful Pastor – Patterns for Healthy Pastoral Life Pt. 2
“Patterns for Healthy Pastoral Life” is a series in which I would like to explore some of the key ingredients to living and serving well. I make no claim that these are the exclusive paths towards healthy pastoring, nor do I have the corner on insights in these areas. But I am drawing from what … Continue reading “Once Upon A Time…Sabbath!” Patterns for Healthy Pastoral Life Pt. 1
I heard this wonderful piece recited at a recent conference by my friend, Peter Reid. Peter is connected with Lamplighters Ministry, and was the featured speaker. I asked him to send it to me, and I am pleased to share it with you. It reflects the yearning of my heart on many occasions. I trust … Continue reading Back to Jesus Alone
It's been a busy couple of weeks. (I hate ever saying how busy I am, even if it's the truth.) So I am catching up on my posting and thought I would share a couple of links to some other bloggers that have challenged me over the last few days. The first one comes from … Continue reading In the Meantime…
“In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us.” – Titus 2:7-8 A while ago, when I was fresh into PIR’s … Continue reading Pastoral Ponderings – A Sound Heart
From time to time, it will be my pleasure to introduce you to some friends who have agreed to share their insights and perspective around the topics we deal with here. I hope you will offer them the same hospitality as guests that you have given to me, as I have invaded your cyber-space. Doug … Continue reading The Joyful Pastor- Guest Blog
Linch pin: noun. “Something that holds the various elements of a complicated structure together.” In this fast-paced world, where all of us struggle to maintain balance while getting through our long “to do” lists, the need to define our priorities is increasingly essential. Pastors and all those in church leadership are no exception. Yet … Continue reading Priority One for Pastors
AN ENCOURAGING WORD 