Tagged With "Lent"

My approach to my own personal adversity and trauma has been deeply shaped by my spirituality. I grew up in a liturgical church, which means that we kept to something called the "Church calendar" which had seasons built into it for various readings, celebrations and observances. Every late winter brought with it the experience of "Ash Wednesday" that led into Lent, a time of self-examination, observance of disciplines and practices that framed human suffering into a larger context, a grand...

This book is the result of my passion for uniting the insights gained from trauma-informed ministry and God's Word. I have dedicated the last decade of my ministry to better understanding the effect of traumatic experiences—especially those that happen in childhood—on human spirituality, resilience, and our capacity to hope. I believe it has made me a better minister of the gospel and a better follower of Jesus Christ. It has certainly opened up my heart and mind to a greater appreciation of...

[note: this article originally appeared in the print and online versions of the Helena Independent Record, Saturday March 4, 2023. LINK ] Carly Simon’s 1971 single, “Anticipation,” opened with the following lines: We can never know about the days to come But we think about them anyway And I wonder if I'm really with you now Or just chasin' after some finer day Anticipation, anticipation Is makin' me late Is keepin' me waitin' This is a season of anticipation and waiting. Many are...

Thank you, Chris, for this post that reminds us to rely on a loving God. Also, “Paralysis by over-analysis” is a great way to describe something I know all too well! Dianne