Calling the circle — redux

Having a gym membership doesn’t make you fit.Going to a garage doesn’t make you a car.Attending church doesn’t make you religious. For many people, religion is a significant aspect of their identity, representing the group with which they feel kinship and the people with whom they spend time. Religion can provide a path that helps us…

Be SMART about your goals

When I started grad school, I looked at what courses were required to obtain my desired degree. I could choose any that were available, looked interesting, and worked with my schedule. Once enrolled, I downloaded an instructor-designed syllabus. This document laid out due dates for readings, assignments, research papers, and exams. A student looking to…

Common good

After a COVID hiatus, some things are reopening and getting back to a semblance of normal, including one of my ministry commitments. At the entrance to the facility where I volunteer, a poster indicated two mask-wearing selections — optional for those vaccinated and mandatory for those unvaccinated.* Clear and simple, right? A short time later,…