Sermon: Embracing the Whirlwind

“Embracing the Whirlwind”

(October 14, 2012) When Job undergoes tremendous suffering, his experience evokes questions about God’s goodness, and poses challenges to the tidy, confining categories we try to place on the world and the Divine. God’s response, finally, calls Job and us into a wider vision beyond categories and into holy creativity. (Job 38:1-18, 34-41)

An announcement

Dear partners in ministry at Trinity UMC, and friends, family, and gentle readers,

For eleven years, Benjamin and I have shared the journey of marriage. We’ve laughed and cried, weathered struggles and triumphs, and parented two magnificent children, Arianna and William.

Like any relationship, however, ours had some difficulties within, and we entered individual and couples counseling in the hope of finding our way through these challenges together. Unfortunately, we have both come to the understanding that we make better co-parents together than spouses for one another. We are beginning the painful and difficult process of separation and eventual divorce.

While this is a sorrowful and agonizing time, each of us is grateful for the strong support of family, friends, and beloved community. We hope that all of you who have loved and supported us as a couple will continue to see us through this transition in our relationship. Our strongest commitment is to the wellbeing of our children, who need not only our love and care, but that of a whole network of love and strength, to flourish and thrive.

Benjamin, our family, and I deeply appreciate your support, patience, and discretion as we live into the next part of our journey. At every turn, life can offer obstacles, but with the courage and compassion drawn from those who hold us in love, we can push through until we find blessings and joy.

Deep Peace,
Becca

Sermon: Are You One of Us?

“Are You One of Us?”

(October 7, 2012) Jesus reminds his disciples that anyone who does God’s work of compassion is “one of us.” This World Communion Sunday, with whom do we stand in ministry together? (Mark 9:38-50)

With thanksgiving for the Angels who witnessed at Matthew Shepherd’s funeral fourteen years ago this week and the Patriot Guard Riders who create space for grieving families.