Tag Archives: Smithville United Methodist Church

Remembering the Saints

Today is All Saints Day, a day in which we remember the lives of those who have gone before us. Though there are many among the faithful who have influenced my journey, today I am specifically honoring two men of … Continue reading

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My prayer for Smithville

I was wakened in the wee hours this morning … actually, I didn’t sleep very much last night. I never sleep very well on Saturday nights, and last night was no exception. Today is my last Sunday in the pulpit … Continue reading

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A plea to my parishioners

Worship at Smithville on Sunday was great! Attendance was good and everyone seemed truly glad to be there. A friend of the congregation had recently been on a mission trip to New Orleans and he told some stories of their … Continue reading

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Nesting (or resting!) in the Word of God

On Sunday mornings, I typically arrive at church about an hour before worship to get organized and spend some time praying in the sanctuary before others arrive. I review the bulletin, make notes for announcements, mark the pulpit Bible so … Continue reading

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Barren blogs, disappointing delays and surprising support

Unlike the weather in which there has been much precipitation in Ohio and Indiana over the last several weeks, I have been in a writing “dry spell” – on my blog at least. I have done some of my own … Continue reading

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Firsts and Lasts

The Spring semester at MTSO started on Monday. I always enjoy talking with new students, hearing about their journeys and what led them to this place. Hearing the ways in which God has been at work in them helps me … Continue reading

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Back in Business

It has been a few weeks since I have posted anything. Early in the month of January, I was busily working on my Commissioning paperwork. (For those who do not know, this is part of the United Methodist ordination process). … Continue reading

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Reflecting on the Old and New

The dawn of a New Year is a good time to reflect on what is past, to celebrate “new beginnings,” and anticipate and hope for that which is yet to come. Over the last few days, I have read many … Continue reading

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Synchronized Light Displays and other Christmas stuff

It has been several days since I wrote a blog post. I had a wonderful Christmas with my family. My parents, sister and brother-in-law all came to Ohio to celebrate with me this year. It was the first time in … Continue reading

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World Communion Sunday

This post includes excerpts of the sermon I shared with my congregation at Smithville UMC today. The Gospel lesson used was from John 17. Today is World Communion Sunday, a day when all Christians everywhere, throughout the globe, remember Christ’s … Continue reading

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