
Star Wars, and its enduring catchphrase, “May the Force be with you” (especially as we’ve just passed Star Wars Day on May 4th), has been on my mind lately. I fondly remember seeing the first movie during a difficult period in my own life, finding a strong connection with Luke Skywalker’s youthful uncertainty and yearning … Continued
Read MoreAs we approach Holy Week, a time of profound significance for many, I find myself reflecting on the balance between our busy lives and the call to deeper spiritual observance. In the midst of preparations and activities, I wonder if we might sometimes miss the opportunity for a truly transformative journey. Are we overwhelmed planning … Continued
Read MoreThis year, we are preparing to celebrate our 45th year in ministry. I think it is appropriate that we are also in anticipation of the arrival of spring. During this season, we focus on reflection and renewal, both in nature and in our lives. Forty-five years ago, in 1980, I was just beginning my ministry … Continued
Read MoreYesterday, our community came together for a truly special Ash Wednesday service. What made it particularly meaningful was the spirit of interfaith collaboration, as our own Chaplain Cary Speaker was joined by Episcopal Priest Becca Walton to lead the observance. This partnership beautifully reflects the inclusive nature of our community, where residents from diverse faith backgrounds come … Continued
Read MoreThere are twelve days of Christmas. You can start your Christmas shopping whenever you like, but Christmas begins Christmas Eve and ends on Epiphany, twelve days after Christmas on January 6. This year, the season of Christmas consists of two Sundays “of” Christmas. That’s how we know it’s a season – the preposition. Epiphany has … Continued
Read MoreThose of us who grew up in the church usually think that Christmas has always been. Of course, that is not the case. The earliest records indicate that December 25 was celebrated as the birth of Jesus in the fourth century. The origin is unclear. One theory is that Christmas replaced the Roman feast of … Continued
Read More“Advent” means coming or arrival. This word has a double significance, as in Advent, we celebrate Christ’s coming into the world and look with longing for his coming again. The season of Advent begins with an emphasis on final things (eschatology). We watch and pray with expectant hope for the establishment of God’s justice and … Continued
Read MoreThere is a great deal of revisionist history about who first celebrated Thanksgiving in this country, where and for what reasons. I did major in history in college, but I concentrated in world history, mostly ancient history. I do not intend to make a definitive statement about the origins of our Thanksgiving traditions. Instead, I … Continued
Read MoreQuite a few years ago, parents of young trick-or-treat aged children who were congregants where I was pastor at the time were particularly anxious about Halloween. The concern was that scary costumes and decorations could have an evil influence on their children. The anxiety they experienced seemed to escalate among their friends and neighbors. As … Continued
Read MoreSeptember used to be the time when school started. I remember my school principal saying the school year was from the day after Labor Day until May 31. But this no longer is the case – my grandchildren began this school year the first week of August. What do changes do to us? How do … Continued
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Contact Us TodayOur residents come from different backgrounds and bring their unique qualities, talents, and life experiences to complete the Kirkwood community. Here are just a few reflections from some individuals who call Kirkwood their home.