A primary theme of my ordained ministry has been congregational growth.  Since being ordained, in 1987, every Church I’ve served has experienced growth in numbers and vitality. During my tenure, as Dean of St. Michael’s Cathedral, we have doubled our R…

My esteemed colleague, Dave Wettstein, Rector of St. Stephen’s-by-the-Mall, here in Boise, recently sent this article to me.  I think it points out that a new trend is going on in our religious culture.  I have vast implications for our … Cont…

Fear and Trembling centers on the biblical story of Abraham. Abraham, childless after 80 years, prays for a son. God grants his wish, and Abraham has Isaac. Thirty years later, God orders Abraham to kill his son. Abraham prepares to … Continue readi…

Once again, Fred Schmidt has spoken prophetically. I heartily comment his recent article on Patheos about how we are electing bishops in our church. Agree with him, or not, he knows how to provide ‘grist for the mill.’ His article … Continue reading…

The Rev. Dr. Fred Schmidt recently posted and article entitled “Storks and Canaries…” which I find both disturbing and compelling.  Dr. Schmidt is Director of Spiritual Formation at SMU, Perkins School of Theology in Dallas, Texas.  He is also an … …