Grow Christians

Everything We Need: A Holy Week Round Up

Okay. Take a deep breath.  Holy Week is almost upon us and yet, no matter the planning that goes into this season, it can feel like we are at loose ends. And, importantly, there is a gap between what it means to be prepared to lead ministry during Holy Week and how we experience this … Read more

When Faithfulness Walks Through the Temple Doors.

When Mary and Joseph walked into the temple, in obedience to the laws of their ancestors, they brought offerings and sacrifices. Unlike many parents, who were undoubtedly there doing the same thing, they also knew something of their child’s future. And of course, while in the temple, not one but two revered elders prophesied over … Read more

Honoring the Extraordinary Ordinary

Is it required upon entering adulthood to begin some sort of Christmas collection? Crechés. Nutcrackers. Santa mugs. Fragile Radko ornaments. Christmas china. Santa Claus mugs. I learned last week that members of my church are Christmas collectors; I am among them. Below our tree sits a brown wicker basket full of Christmas books. I began … Read more

Honoring the ‘Saint’ in Saint Nicholas

I used to play Saint Nicholas and present his story at Christmas markets designed to inspire giving to non-profits helping needy populations. There, I was astounded by how many Christian children and parents were unaware of Saint Nicholas’s relationship to Santa. But they loved learning about it. I began wondering if Christmas would be less commercialized if families better … Read more

Welcoming Advent into Our Homes

Part of my family is already observing Advent. And it’s not the clergy parents who are up to their eyeballs in Advent sermons, bulletins, and formation resources. My teenage children participate in the Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration’s youth group, just a couple of miles from our house. They typically gather on Wednesday evenings, but … Read more