Various forms of kinship families make up our congregations. Sometimes we forget the great variety of forms, not only of the families living amongst us but also those presented in … read more

A year or so ago, I was privileged to experience a “saying good-bye to neighbors” party in the home of an elder couple who were moving out of state into an assisted… read more

What is a caring congregation A short forty years ago, I learned that pastoral care was an activity of the ordained. Care was a professional task and vocation, and clinical … read more

No one hears the word of grace with as much gratitude as those whose lives have been painfully devoid of it.  It is the first night of the “Growing through… read more

"Chaplain, I'd like for you to do my mother's funeral." Chaplain? Who was she talking to? I was fresh out of seminary, insecure, and had not even attended many funerals! Thus… read more

The following ritual is an example of a service that can be held at a gathering the night before the funeral or at a meal served in the church dining room or family home following … read more