Today I broke free—from the fever, from the sore throat, and from my dramatic, blanket-wrapped existence on the couch. I re-entered society in the most glamorous way possible… by going to the—wait for it—the Post Office. Yes, I peaked early. Getting mail: This is no small thing at our house. We live in a nearly … Continue reading Day 4: The Post Office
Day 3: Faith Formation
In the fall of 2025, my role transitioned from Pastor of Family Ministry—a position I have served in for many years—to Pastor of Faith Formation. As I prepare to return from sabbatical and step fully into this new role, it is important to begin with a clear framework and strategic direction. It's all feet in! … Continue reading Day 3: Faith Formation
Day 2: Dog Groomer
As my kids got older and moved out, I did what any reasonable parent would do—I bought a dog. Not to replace them (obviously, they are irreplaceable and also significantly taller), but to bring a little comfort, and someone who still thinks I’m the center of the universe. When Noah left for St. Olaf College, … Continue reading Day 2: Dog Groomer
Day 1: Send Off
Today is the first day of my sabbatical, and naturally, I am celebrating by… waiting for the doctor to call. Not on a beach. Not reading a book. Not doing anything remotely sabbatical-ish. Just sitting here, aggressively sipping tea and trying to swallow like it’s an Olympic sport. Nothing major—just strep throat that has decided … Continue reading Day 1: Send Off
Sabbatical Starts March 22
I was a weird kid—in the best way. Every Sunday after church, I’d rush home and play church with my stuffed animals. I directed an imaginary choir, wrote my own sermons about loving people (remember, this was the South in the 1970s), and served Holy Communion to the dog using bread and Kool-Aid. Reverent and … Continue reading Sabbatical Starts March 22
Post Christmas Sermon
I don't usually write my sermons down, but for I did for this Christmas Eve 2025. Mostly for myself, so I can remember my words. If you like to read sermons, may this one encourage you this Christmas season. Grace and peace to you from the Christ - child that brought love into the world … Continue reading Post Christmas Sermon
My ABC’s with Jesus
I love creating children’s ministry curriculum for a variety of settings—whether it’s Children’s Church, Sunday School, baby book clubs, milestone events, baptism classes, First Communion preparation, or at-home family devotions. What I’m most passionate about is equipping parents and grandparents to nurture faith at home. This fall, the Children, Youth, and Family team at my … Continue reading My ABC’s with Jesus
What Makes My Church Special to Kids
Today I wrote a letter to the families at Bethlehem Lutheran Church - Twin Cities, who attend the Minneapolis campus. While we can't meet the needs of every family, I think we do a good job on providing opportunities for kids in worship. Below is what I wrote: What Makes Bethlehem Special for Kids – … Continue reading What Makes My Church Special to Kids
VBS – The Generosity Project
If you are looking for a fun stewardship event to host this fall, check out the Generosity Project here. It is curriculum designed for congregations to talk about money, value, and faith intergenerationally. As a contributing writer to the Generosity Project, the CYF team at Bethlehem and I decided to create a Vacation Bible School … Continue reading VBS – The Generosity Project
A Storytelling Directory
One thing I have been working on for my DMIN from Portland Seminary are a couple of prototypes for projects. One project I am thinking about creating is a Storytelling Directory. Below is the entry essay and a couple of simple audio storytellings. By no means is this a complete project. Thank you for checking … Continue reading A Storytelling Directory
StoryBoard 