Peace and Blessings to you, Beloved Church.

Midwinter Pilgrimage: 

The turning of Christmas towards Epiphany is one of my favorite transitions of our sacred calendar. I love Matthew’s Gospel’s story of Magi traveling to visit young Jesus, crossing religious and social boundaries to acknowledge God’s presence in the world. I love the night sky and wondering about stars and distant worlds that also are part of God’s creation. I love the ability to wander through the winter wilderness as the daylight slowly grows. There’s something important in life about journeys and wandering and the growth that happens “along the way.”

Wintertime in Ohio isn’t the easiest time for wandering and journeys and the like, but I’ll be taking some time in February for a pilgrimage through the religious and historical sites in and around Jerusalem and Palestine. A clergy development program through the Knights Templar has sponsored me in this opportunity for growth and learning, and I am so excited to gain a better appreciation and understanding of the peoples, lands, and locations that are so central to many of our most important scripture stories. Please remember me in your prayers as we travel, that the relationships formed and insights gained would bear fruit for the ministry we share. This is certainly a once-in-a-lifetime chance that I am deeply thankful and excited for, and I look forward to sharing more about the journey upon my return!

Epiphany blessings to you all. May God continue to meet us amidst our wonderings and wanderings.

c/o PASTOR PAUL