In our church, when we baptize a child or adult, confirm the baptism of a young person, or reaffirm baptism as a disciple or household unites with our church family, we ask four questions. For nearly 2000 years, some version of these baptismal questions has been asked any time we enter or affirm covenant with Jesus Christ and his body, the Church. The first of the four questions: Do you turn from sin and renounce evil and its power in the world? That’s a rather BIG ask of anyone, young or old, individually or congregationally! Philosopher Timothy Merton has coined the term “hyperobjects” to in ..read more

summer 2023 Pastor Dennis Tedder Cecil Hook notes that “In the first three [of the 10 Commandments], God says, “I love you & want your full fellowship.” In the 5th through the 10th, [God] says, “Love & respect each other.” The 4th command, “Remember the Sabbath & keep it holy,”… is the pivotal command. It points… — to God & [humans]. “Remember your spiritual relationship with me & remember the dignity & purpose of people.”   Genesis attests that after creating everything, GOD needed rest!  God wants time for us to rest & digest so deeply that God ma ..read more