Church membership is not just some sort of ritual to pass through to get to the next stage in your life. Think of the questions you were asked. This was the moment you made your own personal confession of faith … Read more

What was asked of you and what did you commit yourself to when you said 'yes' to confirmation or membership in your church? Can you even remember the service or what was said? Let me refresh you memory by going … Read more

Does it mean anything any more to be a member of the church of Jesus Christ? Do we count the cost, if in fact we think of it at all? Does a promise contain anything more than empty air? I … Read more

In one of those delightful home visits that make being a minister so worthwhile, I had a couple with glowing faces tell how much it meant to them to get out of bed on Sunday morning and never say those … Read more

Did you ever see the cartoon of the guy who wants to sleep in on Sunday, only to be told he can't stay home? – "Why?" His wife answers, "You're 40 and you're the minister." People go to church for … Read more

Have you ever seen someone in a rage? Have you ever seen someone lose control, fit to be tied? That's an interesting phrase – fit to be tied. It means someone who has lost it, and needs to be restrained, … Read more

"Don't trust in violence". Violence has never proven to be a way to solve problems or re-establish relationships. I was never so ashamed and never so proud to be a Pictonian [Editor's note: citizen of Pictou] as I was the … Read more

Have you ever seen the painting called 'The Last Supper"? Do you know the inside story? One day Leonardo da Vinci became angry with a man while painting this picture. He lashed out with cruel words. When he tried to … Read more

In February 1996, The Presbyterian Record published a game I created to use with children during Family Violence Prevention Week (page 50). It was called Hurters and Helpers. After an energetic game the children are invited to reflect on how … Read more

In Nova Scotia, Canada, February 9-15 is designated as Family Violence Prevention Week, and the churches are instrumental in taking the initiative. In Pictou County, our Fear Not Now Committee has produced excellent resources for the churches. My meditations this … Read more