by Joel Snider | Jul 13, 2015 | Opinion
Twenty years ago our congregation adopted five core values. The one which speaks to our internal relationships says, “In relationships … Family.” Our church covenant expands this core value: “As a group of gathered believers, we understand...
by Joel Snider | Jun 15, 2015 | Opinion
I first read “Tobacco Road” in the 1970s. Erskine Caldwell’s 1932 novel of the rural South taught me lessons about poverty that have stayed with me for a lifetime. These are valuable lessons for a pastor who deals with requests for help every week...
by Joel Snider | Mar 24, 2015 | Opinion
With the advent of the DVD, moviemakers have offered viewers the option to watch alternate endings of their favorite movies. A “director’s cut” lets us choose one ending over another, according to our preferences. Atul Gawande’s book,...
by Joel Snider | Feb 26, 2015 | Opinion
What insight would be gained from reversing the beatitudes or blessings Jesus offers in the Sermon on the Mount? I was researching the Beatitudes for a sermon a few years ago when I came across the writings of St. Francis de Sales (1567-1622) who had done just that....
by Joel Snider | Nov 6, 2013 | Opinion
Our church has just entered into its annual stewardship season. I find it impossible to consider my own, personal stewardship without considering my relationship to “stuff.” An honest Christian will have to admit that a major factor in a decision about...
