Sonnet #37 – meditations on the pastorate Notes before beginning to write this piece: the first word must also be the last word (i.e. the first is last…), the meters should not complete a sentence until the end to mirror the ongoing day and night life of service. The Volta should turn toward dark questioning, … More Sonnet #37 – meditations on the pastorate
I spent a good portion of the last three years studying and writing for the book Burning Religion. It is filled with philosophy, theology, carnival tall tales, and autobiographical stories from going to and living in weird places. Salem, MA, Burning Man, the last days of the Mayan Calendar in Palenque, MX make their way … More Burning Religion: help me publish the Book
Over the course of 30+ years in a variety if ministry settings, I discovered a simple truth, which ought to come as common sense to most of us: People are much more likely to feel comfortable talking about spiritual things when they have a chance to relax. I don’t mean that everything in their life … More Where Our Hearts Find Rest
Francis’ indictment of mafia violence and calling them to repentance with the threat of Hell, is a perfect model for my thoughts on navigating the space between the church and the world, especially when seen in the light of his responses to both atheists and the LGBTQ community. Perhaps Francis has now fully played … More The Pope and the Mafia, the atheists, and the Gay Community
It seems that there are a few atheists who are drawn to Pope jokes like second graders to poop jokes. Francis says that there may be atheists who make it to heaven by their good works. An interesting theological olive branch extended to cultures of unbelief. Now some atheists have acknowledged the graciousness of his … More Atheists and Poop, I mean, Pope Jokes
Phil Wyman 