St. Margaret’s Celebrates 50th Anniversary

Job’s understanding of what was happening in his life was painfully limited. I imagine Job’s spirit groaned through many, many prayers.When we fall on difficult times, it can be a comfort to believe there is someone with the power to exact justice—an umpire to make...

From the Archives: August 27, 1950It seems to be humankind’s characteristic to seek the causes our failures outside of ourselves. Adam blamed Eve.Even in religious practice it is common to charge God with our mi....(View this reading and more resources for prayer at...

Many of us live surrounded by stuff. Our shelves are lined with trophies, photos, books, and treasures. They remind us of lessons, accomplishments, and relationships. We call them keepsakes.My best friend has experienced burglary several times. He doesn’t ....(View...

My favorite patchwork quilt is made of my Aunt Maureen’s clothes. This quilt is cherished not because of the craftsmanship or materials but because I feel close to her—reconnected—when I wrap it around me and snuggle into its warmth.When a loved one dies, we are left...

Sit in a room with children and correct one child. See how quickly others speak up to assure you they were in the right. What fears override a child’s ability to show compassion? What opportunity might they miss if they remain silent? What do these children seek in...

I have a nagging suspicion today’s church isn’t what Jesus had in mind.I can’t imagine he’d want everything to be about him. He did not bask in stardom. He practiced service. Forgiveness. Honesty. Gratitude. Healing. Love. Jesus did the hard,...

Something like scales fall from our eyes when we study neuroscience. So much of what can be perceived as choice is impulse. Most people react instead of responding.More scales fall from our eyes when we study history. Sometimes hardships lead to liberation. Who are we...

My first silent retreat was at a mountain hermitage. I settled into my home away from home, happily showing reverence to the food, fork, chair, and sunset. I listened to the sounds my mouth made when I chewed and considered the flavors on my tongue and in the air.I...

From the Archives: March 3, 1951It is strange how blind we can be to the consequences of sin and how alert to the imagined consequences of obedience. We most often think we can beat the certain consequences of sin, but we never quite see how....(View this reading and...