Come, Holy Spirit
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
5/27/23
Come, Holy Spirit, bring light to places too long languishing in deep darkness and relentless fear.
Come, Holy Spirit, bring fires of justice to people right now exploited, devalued and oppressed.
Come, Holy Spirit, bring winds of change to the farthest corners of the earth, ushering in God’s peace and abundant life.
Come, Holy Spirit, bring words of God’s deeds of power spoken in languages understood by all creation.
Come, Holy Spirit, bring new ways of being community, a revolution of grace, mercy and kindness that reveal the dignity and worth of each and every person.
Come, Holy Spirit, bring an upending of evil, an upbuilding of goodness, an upheaval of anything counter to the will of the Triune God.
Come, Holy Spirit, bring flames that burn away our dross and refine our faith so that the whole world will be drawn through us to the light of Christ and the love of God.
Come, Holy Spirit, bring truth that unmasks idolatry, undoes false teaching and leads to greater understanding among God’s children.
Come, Holy Spirit, bring reconciliation that breaks down walls, builds bonds of kinship and knits together every tribe and nation.
Come, Holy Spirit, bring comfort to those who mourn, relief to all who suffer, hope to the hopeless and encouragement to those on the cusp of giving up.
Come, Holy Spirit, bring your advocacy and intercession, your gentleness and power, your presence and compassion in order that we will bravely participate in the new things God is doing in our midst.
Come, Holy Spirit, come that we may abide in God and God in us until Christ comes again. Amen.
–Pastor Jill Duffield
The Presbyterian Outlook Website
I Forgive You
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
4/26/23
Idris Mitchell gave Randall Bagley a gift he never expected to receive. The gift of forgiveness in three powerful words: I forgive you. Click the link below to watch their story.
Holy Week in Jerusalem
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
4/5/23
Click the link below to get a peek at Holy Week in Jerusalem. It includes video clips of holy sites throughout the city. May you have a Blessed Holy Week.
Stations of the Cross
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
4/4/23
Pray As You Go is an online prayer resource. You can use their app or visit their website for a daily devotional. Below you’ll find a link to a collection of Stations of the Cross reflections offered by them. Each station includes a selection of music, a reading from the Bible, and a reflection. Use it this week as part of your journey through Holy Week.
The Land of the Seeking
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
3/29/23
Below you’ll find a link to a music video from our friends at A Sanctified Art. You’ll recognize the artwork in the video from the Lenten devotional and our midweek Lenten worship services.
Seeking in the Labyrinth
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
3/21/23
A labyrinth is a prayer tool. It’s a walking meditation. There’s one way in and one way out. This allows you to focus on prayer rather than on deciding which way to go, which way to turn. Desert Cross has a labyrinth at our Tempe Site that you can use anytime. Come and try it during Lent as you Seek ways to draw closer to God.
You’ll find two links below. Click the first one to read some history and simple steps for using a labyrinth. The second one is a recent story in the news that features a labyrinth in Phoenix.
Seeking: Songs for Lent
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
2/22/23
Seeking: Honest Questions for Deeper Faith is the theme for Lent at Desert Cross this year. A Sanctified Art put together a Spotify playlist called Seeking: Songs for Lent. You can set up a free account with Spotify and enjoy this wide-ranging music for the next 40 days. Click the link below to get listening.
Reset by Light
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
1/26/23
You might be wondering why we’re sharing a story about a blind man’s circadian clock and the curiosity of scientists about the man’s ability to wake up with the sun each day. It’s an interesting story, and the research into it involves frogs and mice! So, why is it on our Desert Cross Faith Formation Website? Thinking about how light resets our internal clocks each day got me thinking about how attending worship services resets us spiritually each week. Hearing God’s Word, singing God’s praises, and being in God’s light helps us hear our call to serve and love one another. Click the link below to hear the story about light and eyesight and join us this weekend to hear The Story and experience The Light.
Hody’s Fund
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
1/19/23
Hody Childress was a kind, generous man. He set up “Hody’s Fund” to help people in need, but he didn’t want anyone to know about it. He only wanted them to know that it was a blessing from God. Because of Hody’s kindness, many received help. Click the link below to read about this special gift.
Merry Christmas
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
12/24/22
Merry Christmas! “Make Room” is a song from Casting Crowns with a beautiful Christmas message for us today. Click the link below for a few moments of peace this Christmas Eve.
Advent Meditation
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
12/7/22
Fuller Studios comes to us from Fuller Seminary. They offer video meditations in several languages throughout the church year. Below you’ll find a link to their meditation for Advent.
Here’s a description from Fuller Studios: “Yearning and Promise” explores Advent and the expectant longing for the birth of Christ through cityscapes, wilderness, and water, with scriptures drawn from Isaiah 40 and Matthew 1. The meditation was filmed by FULLER studio at North Avenue Beach in Chicago, Illinois, and El Matador State Beach in Malibu, California. The audio for this video is in Swahili with subtitles in English, Spanish, Mandarin, and Korean—a poetic way to represent the primary tongues of our community.
From Generation to Generation
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
11/28/22
We’re sharing a “From Generation to Generation” Spotify playlist with you today. Songs for Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany can be accessed with a free Spotify account. Use the link below to sign in with your existing account or to create your free account. You’ll hear music from Sara Bareilles to Jars of Clay to Marty Haugen to The Goo Goo Dolls. Enjoy!
Prayer for Thanksgiving
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
11/24/22
As you gather around the table for your Thanksgiving dinner, we’re sharing a Prayer for Thanksgiving. Click the link below for a prayer written by Pastor Amanda Horan based on Psalm 104. Enjoy the day!
Prayer for Election Day
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
11/8/22
Our Playlist Theme this month is Pray, and we’re a sharing a Prayer for Election Day from the Grand Canyon Synod. Click the link below for the prayer.
Faith Challenge
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
10/31/22
You’ve heard of the Ice Bucket Challenge. The money raised from that event resulted in new medications and treatments for ALS. You’ve probably heard of the Plank Challenge. Folks have improved their physical condition through this challenge. Have you heard of the Faith Challenge? A friend of mine told me about a congregation in Wisconsin issuing a Faith Challenge, and it sounds like a great idea. The challenge is simple. How might your faith grow if you committed to attending worship services four weeks in a row? Good things can come from these challenges, let’s give the Faith Challenge a try. See you in worship!
Bono’s Faith Walk
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
10/27/22
Bono, lead singer of U2, has a memoir out titled Surrender: 40 Songs, One Story. In the book he writes about his family, his wife, and his band. He also writes about his faith and its impact on his life and his career. You’ll find two links below. The first is to a condensed version of an interview with him. If you have more time, use the video link for the full interview.
Generous, Fair, and Kind
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
10/12/22
Generous, Fair, and Kind. That’s how people describe Seara Burton. She was a police officer in Richmond, Indiana, killed in the line of duty. Seara will be remembered because she was generous, fair, and kind to all the people she encountered. We don’t always know what difference we make in the lives of others. Seara Burton made a difference. Click the link below to learn more about the difference she made.
Act of Faith
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
10/4/22
People will gather across the world for Yom Kippur services tonight. The people from a synagogue in Sanibel Island will be extremely grateful to read from the Torah. Click the link below to watch how Melissa and Scott Congress went on an Act of Faith to retrieve two Torahs after their synagogue was hit by Hurricane Ian.
Serve One Another
Denise Viker, Parish Nurse
9/28/22
We are called to serve one another. That can take many forms. A card, a casserole, a cone. Yes, an ice cream cone. Click the link below to read how an ice cream cone was a loving act of service.
Gratitude
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
8/31/22
Teddy Droseros hasn’t always lived his life with gratitude. He learned it over time. He learned it after living through some dark days. He learned it from watching his mother struggle with health issues. Now he’s helping others learn to be grateful too. Teddy calls it a shift in perspective. Click the link below to learn more about being grateful.
Wait Time = Prayer Time
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
8/15/22
According to an article in the Los Angeles Times, the average American will wait in line an average of five years in a lifetime. Yes, you read that correctly . . . five years. So, Pastor Hollie M. Holt-Woehl has a suggestion for us. She suggests we use our wait time as prayer time. Click the link below for more on a While You Wait Prayer.
Giving Grace
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
7/13/22
Have you ever thought that you’re “Giving Grace” when you’re sharing your gifts? Vijay Gupta, a violionist with the LA Philharmonic and founder of Street Symphony, probably didn’t think he was “giving grace” when he began performing in the Skid Row section of Los Angeles. He started sharing his gift with the neighborhood ten years ago, and it’s made a difference in the lives of many. Click the link below to listen to how Street Symphony started and what a gift it’s been to others. It might get you thinking about how you can share your gifts.
Connecting with Gen Z
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
6/30/22
If you’re like me, you have a bit (maybe a lot) of gray hair. When I attend worship services, I notice that many, many of us in the room are older. Where are the younger people? Our Church has a beautiful, powerful message of grace to share. How do we connect with all ages to share that gift? The article linked below to Living Lutheran caught my eye. Gen Z wants to be connected to the Church, but that connection might look different from previous generations. So, let’s learn more about that, make some changes, and find ways to connect with each other.
Trust God. Period.
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
6/7/22
You know Ernie Johnson as the host of Inside the NBA on TNT, but there’s so much more to the man than broadcasting sports. He and his wife demonstrate their faith in the way they live their lives. Johnson describes Cheryl as a “world changer” for the strength she has to follow her heart. They demonstrated their ability to follow the Spirit when they adopted their son, and then a daughter, and then . . . you’ll see.
Click the link below for a modern day Pentecost story. As Ernie says, Trust God. Period.
Unite for Uvalde
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
6/2/22
Watching the news coverage of the multiple shootings around our country over the last few weeks has me feeling helpless. Maybe you’re feeling the same way. You want to do something. But what?
Listening to Pastor Andrea’s sermon on Sunday gave me an idea. She talked about the Jewish Community Center for Loving Kindness in Pittsburgh. After the shooting at the Tree of Life Synagogue in 2018, they received messages of encouragement and support from around the world. Cards and letters arrived in the mail and lifted them up during those dark, dark days. That support meant something to them, and since then they do the same for other communities because they know it helps.
So, maybe we can do the same for the faculty and staff at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde. They lost nineteen of their students and two of their teachers. They’re mourning. When school starts in the fall, they’ll be called on to help their students heal. They need encouragement and support to carry on with their vital work. Let’s send them cards and letters. Let’s Unite for Uvalde.
Here’s the address:
Robb Elementary School
715 Old Carrizo Road
Uvalde, Texas 78801
Below you’ll find a link to the Jewish Community Center for Loving Kindness so that you can learn more about their mission. You’ll also find a link to Pastor Andrea’s sermon where she talks about the organization and calls on us to Look to Jesus.
Jewish Community Center for Loving Kindness
Remember Them
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
5/19/22
In the link below you’ll find an audio essay by Stephanie Ramos. She serves as a hospital chaplain in Los Angeles. You’ll hear her remember the early days of the pandemic. You’ll hear her remember patients and families she comforted. We all recognize the heroic work of the doctors and nurses, but we should remember the clergy too. Chaplains, priests, imams, rabbis, etc. Our local pastors too. They’ve carried a heavy burden during this time. Let’s remember the lost and those who cared for them.
Learning Love & Service from a Hawk
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
5/11/22
If you watch the TV show This Is Us, you heard love defined by Miguel’s mother in a recent episode. I’m paraphrasing, but she defined it as love is expecting nothing in return. The Gospel Lesson for this coming weekend includes the following words from Jesus, “I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another” (John 13:34). Jesus doesn’t tell us to love those who love us first. Jesus doesn’t tell us to love those who make it easy to love them. Jesus simply says to love each other.
Both of these things came to mind when I heard the following interview with Sy Montgomery, author of a new book about hawks. Hawks are beautiful to look at, but don’t expect any love from them for your care taking. They’re not easy to love; in fact, caring for them can be quite dangerous. In the interview Montgomery talks about love and service in a way that fits the definition shared by Miguel’s mother. She writes about the hawks using spiritual language. Click the link below to listen to the interview and to read an excerpt from her book, The Hawk’s Way.
Learning Love & Service from a Hawk
Painting the Sunrise
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
4/27/22
A friend of mine works in health care and shared the following link with me. It’s a short story about a brief encounter between two people that makes a great difference in their lives. It was a reminder to me that so often it’s the little things we do for one another that add up to great good. Click the link below to read and/or listen to it.
Holy Days
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
4/17/22
Scott Simon, host of NPR’s Weekend Edition Saturday, shared a commentary yesterday. In it, he notes that during all the turmoil in the world Passover, Easter, and Ramadan all come together on the calendar this weekend. He calls these Holy Days a shared time of “rescue, renewal, and reflection” of the three faiths. It’s a beautiful message. Click the link below to listen. May you have a Blessed Easter.
Good News
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
4/11/22
When I opened my email yesterday on Palm Sunday, I found a video from The Bible Project. You’ll find a link to it below. It highlights the beautiful message of Jesus redefining what it means to be King. He teaches an upside down message from our world and a new way of living. Click the link below to watch it. May you have a meaningful Holy Week.
Life’s Darkness & Light
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
4/7/22
Today we’re offering a “crossover event” with the Stories of Joy blog. Jon Batiste and Suleika Jaouad have had much to celebrate over the last year. The success of his two albums. The success of her bestselling book. Yet, they’ve had struggles to deal with too. The return of leukemia and a bone marrow transplant. In the story link below the two of them talk about the darkness in life and the light in life. Their attitude makes me think of John 1:5, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.” After you watch the story, use the second link to visit the Story of Joy blog for more on this inspiring couple.
Bringing Ourselves Before God
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
3/30/22
In the words of Eliza C. Jaremko, pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Haddon Heights, New Jersey, Lent is a time for us to bring our “whole, broken, beautiful selves before God.” You’re invited to click the link below to read her Lenten reflection.
Lenten Journey
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
3/23/22
We’re about halfway through our Lenten Journey. Maybe you adopted a Lenten discipline, and that practice is going well for you. Maybe you need a nudge to return to your adopted discipline. Maybe you’re ready to adopt one now. Wherever you are on your Lenten Journey, you might find the article below of interest. Dr. Mark D. Roberts, from Fuller Seminary, shares his experiences through Lent.
Women of the Bible
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
3/17/22
During Women’s History Month, Fuller Seminary is offering a couple of ways for us to get to know the Women of the Bible better. They’ve put together a workbook called “She Is . . . ” where you’ll find reflections written by several writers. Check out the first link below to learn more about Lydia, Esther, Mary, Ruth, and others. It’s available free from Fuller through March.
The second link is to a sermon series called Wisdom from the Women of the Old Testament. You can listen to sermons about Sarah, Hagar, Rachel, Leah, and others. Put on your headphones and get listening!
Songs for Lent
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
3/9/22
The theme for Lent at Desert Cross is Full to the Brim. It includes a Full to the Brim playlist on Spotify. There’s a wide variety of music on the playlist. Everything from the Blind Boys of Alabama to Matt Redman to Lady Gaga to Carrie Underwood. There’s something here for everyone. You’ll find a link to the playlist below. You’ll need to create a free Spotify account to listen.
What Matters Most
Pastor Thaddeus Book, Associate Pastor
3/8/22
Jonathan Tjarks is a basketball writer who found out last April that he has a rare form of stage four cancer. Since his diagnosis, he has written articulately and incredibly honestly about his faith and his doubts. In the article link below, he writes about the importance of community, not just for himself but for his two year old son.
Love thy Neighbor
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
3/7/22
In Matthew 22:39, Jesus tells us to love thy neighbor. The world can learn much from the people of Przemysl, Poland on what it means to love thy neighbor. The people of the town have opened themselves up to helping refugees from Ukraine. Their neighbors need help, and they’re finding ways to provide water, food, clothing, shelter, and hope. Click the link below to watch the story. It’s not an easy story to watch. There are disturbing scenes of war and violence. If you’re looking for ways to help, you can click the link below to contribute to Lutheran Disaster Response through the ELCA.
We pray for peace in Ukraine.
Full to the Brim
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
3/2/22
Are you feeling less than Full to the Brim as Lent begins? Are you feeling a bit empty? A bit worn out? Maybe this Lent will be your time to refill. Your time to rehydrate. Click the link below for an article titled “Lent: A Time to Rehydrate” for some inspiration to reconnect to God.
Telling Her Story
Andrea Cain, Senior Pastor
2/24/22
Lily Ebert is a 98-year-old Holocaust survivor. She’s telling her story and reaching younger generations on TikTok, and they’re listening by the millions. Although her story is devastating, Lily Ebert’s posts with her great grandson can’t help but bring hope to your heart. The two have also written a book, Lily’s Promise, that will be published later this year. To read more about Lily and her mission, click the link below.
I’m a Lutheran
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
2/23/22
“I’m a Lutheran” is a regular feature in Living Lutheran. Darryl W. Jones tells a bit of his faith story in a recent edition. Growing up in a Lutheran church, being encouraged to sing in worship services, serving in soup kitchens. Click the link below to read his story.
Be Kind
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
2/17/22
Kindness goes a long, long way. It can change someone’s day for the good. The first link below is to an interview with Gary Dixon, the head of the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation. He tells a powerful story about how kindness decreased bullying in a school district. The second link is to a list of ideas for practicing kindness. Scroll through the list, pick an idea, and let’s all participate in Random Acts of Kindness Day! Everyday!
Science. Religion. Empathy.
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
1/24/22
During the pandemic, Dr. Francis Collins, former Director of the National Institutes of Health, has been a voice of calm. I’ve heard him explain characteristics of COVID-19, treatments for the illness, and the benefits of the vaccines. He explains science in a way that all of us can understand. Listening to him has actually given me some peace during these difficult times.
Although he’s taking on a new research project, studying diabetes and aging, he’s also concerned about the divisions the pandemic has revealed in our country. The link below is to an interview with Dr. Collins in which he discusses his faith and how he’s hoping to use science, religion, and empathy to bring some hope to all of us. Click the link below to listen to and/or read the interview.
Epiphany of Our Lord
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
1/6/22
Our traditional telling of Epiphany is of three wise men in a far off land. Today we’re sharing an interpretation of Epiphany in a cornfield in Iowa. The video was produced by FULLER Studio. Epiphany isn’t about where but about what. It’s about the shining light of Christ coming into our world. Everywhere. Click the link below for some added light today!
Merry Christmas
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
12/24/21
Merry, Merry Christmas! Please click the link below for a message of hope from ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton.
Advent Peace
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
12/9/21
This is the second week of Advent. We read the following words at worship last weekend:
CANDLE LIGHTING LITURGY:
Leader: As we reflect on the foundation of our faith in our lives,
we gather together around the candle of peace.
Congregation: The home we long for is a home that knows peace
Leader: peace that rests between us and our grief,
Congregation: peace around our anxiety,
Leader: peace between us and our self-criticism,
Congregation: peace amidst our relationships,
Leader: peace at the core of our being,
Congregation: peace hovering through and in our world.
Leader: The home we long for is a home that knows peace.
Congregation: So today we light the candle of peace—as a reminder and as a prayer.
Leader: Let it be so.
All: Amen.
Beautiful words with a beautiful message.
As I’m working in my office this week, I’m listening to an Advent Playlist put together by Lifelong Learning. The music is providing me with some Advent Peace. So far, my favorite is the “Come Thou Long Expected Jesus” by Wilder Adkins. Below you’ll find a link to the playlist on Spotify. You can create a free account to access the music. Enjoy!
Trusting in God
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
11/9/2021
God Pause is a daily devotional offered by Luther Seminary. Today’s focus is on Trusting in God. Click the link below to read it. If you’d like to receive their daily devotion in your email, look for the sign-up button.
Voicemail: Twenty Years Later
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries & Missional Service
9/11/2021
We all remember hearing the stories of victims of 9/11 leaving voicemails for their friends and family. They knew they were in danger, and they knew they might not make it home . . . so they reached out and said goodbye. Twenty years later National Public Radio set up a phone booth for family members to leave their own voicemails. There’s a link to the video below. Let’s remember the families and friends of those souls lost on that day.
Learning from Ruth
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
8/19/21
Ruth Pearl was the mother of Daniel Pearl. After her son was murdered in Pakistan, she could’ve become bitter. She could’ve lived the rest of her life angry. Instead, she reached out. She responded with grace and found ways to humanize people. She fought hate. She did things so that “some good might come out of our private pain.” Ruth Pearl sounds like an amazing woman. We can all learn from Ruth. Click the link below to listen to a remembrance of her.
Christmas in July
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
7/19/21
Because of the pandemic, churches missed holding in-person worship services at Christmas, so some churches are having Christmas in July. What a great idea! You can listen to a story about it by clicking the link below.
It got me to thinking that we can have Christmas in July in our homes and in our neighborhoods. Start by playing your favorite Christmas music. Maybe listening to Bing Crosby sing “White Christmas” will make you feel a little cooler on these hot summer days. Bake some cookies, wrap them up, and share them with your neighbors. Maybe include some ice cream! Get a ham and invite the family over for dinner. Serve it with watermelon and potato salad. Make a gift to your favorite charity. They can always use your support. Write Christmas in July cards, emails, or text messages. Tell folks in your life how much you love them and how much you missed spending time with them during the pandemic.
To get yourself in the Christmas in July spirit, click the link below to listen to the story. Merry Christmas!
Cheering for Vin
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
7/15/21
The Phoenix Suns and Milwaukee Bucks are tied 2-2 in the NBA Finals. I’m cheering for the Suns, but I’m also cheering for Vin Baker, an Assistant Coach for the Bucks. Vin Baker is a former NBA star and a recovering alcoholic. He lost a promising career and a tremendous amount of money. Through his struggle, he nearly lost his faith. He shares his story as a way to help others. He says, “I have an absolute responsibility to provide hope for people who aren’t in healthy situations when it comes to addiction.” Click the link below to read his story. Afterwards, you might be a Vin Baker fan too!
Lessons Learned
Pastor Thaddeus Book, Associate Pastor
6/28/21
Father Gregory Boyle runs a ministry called “Homeboy Industries” that employs gang members in East Los Angeles. In this commencement speech, he shares the story of bringing a gang member named Mario to talk in front of a thousand people. Following his talk, Mario is asked a question that brings tears to his eyes but also helps him and everyone else remember that we can’t judge one another by outward appearance.
“You Gotta Believe”
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
6/10/21
During the pandemic, some folks organized their closets, some folks remodeled their houses, some folks learned to cook. What did Natasha Cobbs Leonard do? The gospel singer started a new church and wrote new music! She knew people needed something good to believe in; thus, her song titled “You Gotta Believe” came out of the pain of the pandemic. Click the link below to hear her story as she shares her gift of music and her call to ministry. Get ready to turn up the volume because the music is great!
Pentecost
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
5/19/21
What is Pentecost Sunday? What does Pentecost mean? Why do we wear red on Pentecost Sunday? Click the link below to find out the answers to these questions and more.
The Role of Women in the Church
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
4/22/21
Beth Allison Barr is a Southern Baptist, a pastor’s wife, and a professor/historian. Her three worlds collided one day while sitting in church. She realized the teachings of her church did not line up with her reading of the Bible. The result was a lot of change in her life and her new book, The Making of Biblical Womanhood: How the Subjugation of Women Became Gospel Truth. Click the link below to read and/or listen to an interview with her.
The Role of Women in the Church
Good Friday
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
4/2/21
Kate Bowler is a writer, historian, and professor at Duke Divinity School. Today she shared a blessing for Good Friday. You’ll find it printed below. If you’re interested in learning more about her and her work, you’ll find a link to her website below.
a Good Friday blessing in the midday night
Oh dear God, we’re in darker places then we’ve ever known
God, light the way for this whole sad earth, for the helpless ones, and for me.
God have mercy,
Christ have mercy,
Spirit have mercy.
night has fallen
on the light of the world
and betrayal seems the order of the day
love itself is handed over
to brutal ignorance
and cunning that loves the dark.
oh God, you chose to feel what we feel—
how it is to die totally alone,
ghastly to behold
in your outstretched arms of the cross,
are you gathering to yourself
every hideous thing?
every failure, travesty, and wrong?
blessed are we who shout: yes! do it!
turn things right side up again!
blessed are we who bow
and wait
for the morning of the world
The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. (John 1:5)
God have mercy,
Christ have mercy,
Spirit have mercy.
open your hands. receive it–
love that comes gently as the dawn.
Maundy Thursday
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
4/1/21
Lutheran World Relief serves people worldwide. Food. Housing. Clothing. Medicine. They do it all. Click the link below to watch a Maundy Thursday message from the organization.
Hill of Crosses
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
3/21/21
If you joined Desert Cross for our livestream worship service this morning, you heard Pastor Andrea talk about the Hill of Crosses in Lithuania. If you’d like to learn more about this unique site and see a photo gallery, click the first link below. If you missed this morning’s worship service, we’ve included a video link for you.
Lenten Concert @ Home
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
3/17/21
Although the Church of the Transfiguration in Orleans Massachusetts isn’t meeting for in-person worship services during the pandemic, they found a way to bring their Lenten Concert to the world. Click the link below for a concert @ home with Gloriae Dei Cantores, Singers to the Glory of God.
Silence . . . Time with God
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
3/3/21
The following passage is from Breathing Space, a daily Lenten email devotion, offered by Paraclete Press. It’s an excerpt from Amid Passing Things: Life, Prayer, and Relationship with God by Fr. Jeremiah Shryock. Finding God in the silence is a spiritual practice we can try during our Renew Our Hearts: DCLC Retreat @ Home. Read on to learn what Fr. Shryock has learned from his silent time with God.
“The greatest experience I have of God is in silence. Even though, as a priest, much of my life is spent talking about God—teaching and explaining God to others and reflecting on the mystery of God—it is silence that provides me with an experience of God that is unique.
At first glance, this way of prayer might not appear like prayer at all. It does not consist of much speaking, thinking, or reading. This way of prayer is more about being than anything else. There is no doing: no long prayers, petitions, novenas, or reading.
When we sit in silence, we are not looking for consolations, insights, answers to difficult questions, or anything else. (Though if God chooses to give them, we can accept them with gratitude.) Instead, we are, quite simply, sitting in silence, or in other words, attempting to rest in him beyond words, ideas, and images. When I speak about this way of prayer, people often close their eyes as if they were savoring fresh, cold water on a sweltering summer day. When their eyes open they look at me with a smile that seems to say, “This is what I need so desperately.” They “need” it for the same reasons I do. We are distracted, noisy, confused, and torn in various directions. We are overwhelmed, anxious, insecure, afraid, and weak in the midst of countless temptations and endless change.
Despite how many spiritual books we read and prayers we recite, this feeling of being tossed about at sea continues to increase. Even though we experience a reprieve at times with insights from Scripture, vocal prayer, the example of the saints, and so on, there is still something more that we need. St. John of the Cross says that “our greatest need is to be silent before this great God with the appetite and with the tongue, for the only language he hears is the silent language of love.” Silence before God is not only our greatest need; it is also our greatest teacher.
A few years ago, I realized that no matter how much I read and study, my knowledge and insights are, in the end, limited. It was as if all my talking to God and thinking about God brought me to the edge of a cliff. To get to the other side, I would need something else. That something else, I finally realized, was silence.
I began to follow this inclination toward silence more and more each day. I would sit for fifteen minutes, thirty minutes, sometimes even a whole hour, opening my heart to God alone in silence. When I would get tangled up in my thoughts, I would simply say the name of Jesus or Abba, or recite a short prayer from Scripture, such as “Come, Lord Jesus” (Revelation 22:20), “Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening” (1 Samuel 3:9), or “Draw me after you” (Song of Songs 1:4), so as to bring my attention back to the Lord, with whom I was desiring just to be.
One of the first fruits that we discover from praying in silence is the simple yet profound realization that we are not our thoughts. For almost my entire life I identified my self with my thoughts. If I felt lonely, afraid, or inadequate, then I identified myself with these things. Instead of being a child of God made in his image and likeness, I was whatever my thoughts were telling me simply because they appeared to be true. Silence provides us with the space to discover that our thoughts, like the passing clouds, are simply a facet about us and not our whole self. Beyond them, like the clouds, is a clear blue sky, the presence of God, in whom we discover our real identity.
A second fruit from praying in silence is the discovery of the nearness of God. Even though I knew in my mind that God dwelt inside of me, subconsciously I lived most of my life believing that God was “out there,” distant from me. God, in this mindset, is more like an alien, inhabiting some remote galaxy, rather than a loving Father who holds all creation in his hand. Through sitting in silence, we can experience that God does not live far away but is one in whom “we live and move and have our being” (Acts 17:28).
When I reflect on my own relationship with God, and ask myself what I desire, the answer that comes back is very simple: God. I don’t want just to think about God or talk about God, as necessary as both of those things are. I want God. Without silence, not only do I become a slave to impulsive decisions, fear, competition, inordinate desires, and anxiety, but my perception and experience of God will be, at best, immature. This is because God is ultimately beyond our words, language, and concepts; and silence is a bridge leading to a deeper and more mature relationship with God. In this deepening experience of God in silence we can encounter from the very depths of our being a God who is “gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love” (Psalm 145:8) and not the distant, detached, dictator God that we, and our culture, often envision God to be.
Lest I fool myself into thinking I have discovered some mystical secret, the reality is I have discovered nothing new. God has been recommending this way of prayer from the beginning. He says, “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). In other words, silence leads to intimacy. Perhaps the reason I never heard this before was because I wasn’t listening.”
Ashes: A Lenten Playlist
Andrea Cain, Senior Pastor
2/18/21
I often listen to music while I’m studying the Bible and writing sermons. Ashes, a playlist put together by the Lifelong Learning Team at Virginia Theological Seminary, will definitely be playing in my office during Lent. The music varies from chants to Mozart to rock. Click the link below to hear a piece of each song. If you want to listen to the entire playlist, just create a Spotify account by using the link below. Creating an account is free, and you’ll have nearly four hours of music for your Renew Our Hearts: DCLC Retreat @ Home.
The Black Church
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
2/11/21
Martin Luther King, Jr. once said that Sunday morning is the most segregated hour in America. Our neighborhoods, schools, and workplaces are more integrated than they were decades ago; however, our churches are not. Most of us sit in the pews with other people who look like us. PBS is presenting a documentary next week that explores the importance of the Black Church. I’m looking forward to watching it and learning more about the history of the Church in Black communities in America. Click the link below to watch a preview.
Comfort in the Cathedral
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
2/3/21
Sanctuaries are places of spiritual healing, but Salisbury Cathedral in England is being used for another kind of healing during the pandemic. The cathedral was built 800 years ago and has an incredible organ, but today it’s serving as a vaccination site. Folks come for their vaccines, and while they’re there they hear the comfort of beautiful music. Click the link below to listen to the story and the music.
The Bible and The Beatles
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
1/27/21
Pastor Scott Miller leads a Methodist congregation in Ohio. He regularly shares a message that, for him, starts with rock music. Seeing God’s message in the world around us is important and brings that message to life. Click the first link below to read more about Pastor Miller’s project. Click the second link below to check out his podcast.
Music With A Message from Wilmington United Methodist Church May 2, 2021 – The rscottmiller1's Podcast
- Music With A Message from Wilmington United Methodist Church May 2, 2021
- Music With A Message from Wilmington United Methodist Church April 25, 2021
- Music With A Message from Wilmington United Methodist Church April 18, 2021
- Music With A Message from Wilmington United Methodist Church April 11, 2021
- Music With A Message from Wilmington United Methodist Church Easter Sunday 2021
Finding Hope, Joy, & Love
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
12/23/20
In the video link below, Savannah Guthrie, anchor of the Today Show, interviews her pastor, Michael Rudzena, founding pastor of Good Shepherd New York. It’s a conversation exploring hope, love, and joy seen during the challenging year of 2020. I hope it brings you some peace this holiday. Merry Christmas!
Service of the Longest Night
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
12/21/20
Today is the shortest day of the year during a year that’s been very difficult for the world. The Service of the Longest Night, offered by the Grand Canyon Synod, will include candle lighting, prayer, readings, and music. Click the link below for a full description and to access tonight’s worship service.
Hanukkah Hope
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
12/15/20
Rabbi Ari Saks shares some beautiful Hanukkah stories in this interview. Stories that show hope during a pandemic and hope at Auschwitz. Click the link below to hear some Hanukkah Hope.
Christmas Festival
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
12/11/20
One of the many things I’m missing this time of year is listening to live Advent and Christmas music. There’s something about being in the same room with the singers and musicians. In this pandemic year, we can’t gather together in person, but we can gather together online. The National Lutheran Choir Christmas Festival will be presented online tonight at 7:00 pm MST. The link below is to their website where you can get more information.
Thanksgiving 2020
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
11/25/20
If you’re like our family, your Thanksgiving dinner will be quite different tomorrow. For the last week or so, I’ve been vacillating between feeling grouchy and feeling grateful. Grouchy that the pandemic keeps us from gathering as usual for the holiday. Grateful for many, many things. Grateful for health. Grateful for family. Grateful for friends. Grateful for home. Grateful for church. Grateful for work. And yet, I still need gratitude reminders. I found one such reminder in this article from Diana Butler Bass. She is an author and speaker who specializes in American religion and culture. Click the link below to read her thoughts on giving thanks this Thanksgiving 2020.
Prayer Stations for Election Day
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
11/2/20
Tomorrow is Election Day in the United States. Whether you’re a Republican, a Democrat, or an Independent, I think we can all agree that this has been a difficult election in a difficult year. We all love America, but we don’t always agree on its direction or its policies. One thing we can agree on is prayer. Let’s join together in prayer by using this prayer tool designed for Election Day. You’ll find a link below to the original Stations of the Cross post along with four images designed to go with the prayers. Please take some time to pray for our country and its leaders.
Prayer Stations for Election Day
Circle of Love
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
9/23/20
Pastor Robert Graetz was called to serve as a pastor in the Lutheran church. He was a white man from Ohio, and he was called to serve a black congregation in Montgomery, Alabama. He survived threats from the KKK and multiple bombs directed at his house. Click the link below to listen to his story and hear his wife tell of the Circle of Love that protected them during those frightening days.
Maybe We’ll Hum
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
8/17/20
The numbers in Arizona don’t meet the health guidelines for gathering together for worship, but it’s safe in New York. One church there figured out how to worship without singing. When I heard this story, it brought tears to my eyes. It’s beautiful to hear them join their “voices” by humming. When it’s safe for us to gather at Desert Cross, maybe we’ll hum. Click the link below to listen to the story.
Open Conversations
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
8/7/20
The Grand Canyon Synod is hosting “Open Conversations about Race” via Zoom beginning Tuesday, August 11. The synod says “these conversations are a safe and thoughtful space where you and others in the synod can wrestle with questions and talk with each other.” For a full description and registration information, please click the link below.
We Miss You! We’ll Be Back!
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
7/30/20
My husband and I saw Hamilton at Gammage last year. When it started streaming earlier this month, we watched it again. King George is Mike’s favorite character from the musical. He starts laughing as soon as King George starts singing, “You’ll Be Back.” You’ll laugh, too, as you watch this version from an Episcopal Priest. We all miss each other at worship. When it’s safe to gather, we’ll be back! Click the link below to enjoy the song.
Mental Health and Faith
Denise Viker, Parish Nurse
6/30/20
Many people who have challenges with their mental health don’t want to talk about it. Some believe that feelings of anxiety or depression don’t happen if a person simply prays harder or has a stronger faith. The fact is that mental health problems are medical conditions, just like heart disease or diabetes. Today’s healthcare system knows more about how the brain works and has more treatment options to care for those who have challenges. A big part of receiving proper diagnosis and treatment comes from being willing to talk about feelings and thoughts.
Kevin Love, an NBA player, received the Arthur Ashe Courage Award at the 2020 ESPYS for his efforts to promote mental health. Kevin overcame fears of being stigmatized and spoke out about his condition. In being open, he found that he was able to be a role model for others who are struggling with their mental health.
Click the link below for the full story and to hear Kevin’s acceptance speech. I hope that after watching it, you will be a champion for encouraging people to speak out about how they are feeling. Especially during this time of a pandemic health crisis, my prayer is that people will be able to say how they are feeling and that when they do, they will find love, acceptance, and support from people of faith.
This Little Light of Mine
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
6/25/20
If you know me, you know I LOVE Bruce Springsteen! One of my friends sent me a video this week for a bit of fun. It made me smile, dance, and sing! Click the link below for some joy as Bruce and his band perform “This Little Light of Mine” in Dublin. Enjoy! And let your light shine today!
Lift Every Voice and Sing
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
6/17/20
“Lift Every Voice and Sing” began as a poem written by James Weldon Johnson. It was put to music by his brother and adopted by the NAACP as the organization’s song. The next time you sing the hymn in a worship service you’ll know more about this special song. Click the link below to watch the story.
In Another Person’s Shoes
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
6/2/20
I was a little girl in the late 1960’s during the race riots. I remember being confused by the images I saw on the news. I remember my mother crying when Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. I didn’t understand what was happening in those days, but I knew my mother was upset.
I was a young stepmother in the early 1990’s when the beating of Rodney King was on the news. I remember my stepdaughters being confused by the images on the news then. To them, police were helpers, and those images made no sense.
Now I’m a grandmother. Last week I saw tears in my granddaughter’s eyes. She was full of questions as to why George Floyd was killed. She knew it was wrong, and her way of expressing that wrong was to make a yellow heart out of clay for him.
Yesterday I read an open letter by Monty Williams, the coach of the Phoenix Suns. His words made me remember the words of Atticus Finch in Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird. In a conversation with his daughter, Atticus tells Scout “you never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view–until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.” For a moment, I tried to put myself in the shoes of Mr. Williams. I’ve never had to wonder about my children being judged because of their skin color. I’ve never had to wonder why a security guard was watching me in a store. I’ve never had to instruct my son on where to keep his hands during a traffic stop.
Last night I saw a story on the news about police putting themselves in the shoes of protesters and protesters doing the same. It gave me a moment of hope, but we have a long way to go.
The first link below is to Mr. Williams’ letter. The second link is to the news story about the police and the protesters.
You can use the comment section at the bottom of this page to share your thoughts.
National Day of Mourning
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
6/1/20
100,000. More than 100,000 Americans dead from COVID-19. It’s truly heartbreaking.
Join us in prayer today for a National Day of Mourning. Click the link below to read more from the ELCA.
Day of Pentecost
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
5/31/20
Today is Pentecost. Take a deep breath. Feel the Holy Spirit. Listen to this message of grace. Click the link below to hear “O Day Full of Grace” brought to you by the Association of Lutheran Church Musicians.
Pentecost @ Home
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
5/28/20
Pentecost marks the gift of the Holy Spirit. At Desert Cross we wear red as a sign of the Holy Spirit. Some congregations even have birthday cake!
The video link below is a beautiful presentation of Acts 2:1-4.
1 When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place. 2 And suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. 3 Divided tongues, as of fire, appeared among them, and a tongue rested on each of them. 4 All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave them ability.
The first verse tells us they were all together. We won’t be physically together this Pentecost, but we are together. We’re together in spirit. We’re together in mission. We’re together as a community of faith. We’re together as we’re apart protecting our neighbors and each other from the virus. Let’s wear red on Sunday as we worship online together!
If you’d like to learn more about the Holy Spirit, click the link below for information about a webinar being offered by Paraclete Press next week: Who and What is the Holy Spirit in the Jewish and Christian Traditions? An Interfaith Conversation between Rabbi David Zaslow and Professor Jack Levison Hosted by Jon M. Sweeney.
Bar and Bat Mitzvahs @ Home
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
5/27/20
Gabe Silverman had his Bar Mitzvah via Zoom. It was a beautiful ceremony that even included Rabbi Danny delivering the Torah to Gabe’s home. Click the link below to listen to the story. Be sure to scroll through the text to see pictures of the Torah delivery and of Danny reading from it. You can share your thoughts by using the comment section below.
Ramadan @ Home
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
5/26/20
Ramadan is observed by Muslims around the world. It’s a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. Gathering as a community was not a part of this year’s celebration; yet, this story shows us how new connections were made for some. Click the link below to watch the story.
Amen
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
5/20/20
Shades of Yale is an a cappella group at Yale University. The group was founded to celebrate the music of the African diaspora and the African-American tradition. Their spring concert season was cut short by the pandemic, so we’re bringing it to you!
Below you’ll find several links. The first one is a radio story about the group. The second link is the group singing “Amen” and “We Shall Overcome” from their online spring concert. We think you’ll love it, so we’re including a link to the full concert. Enjoy!
Share your comments below.
Go in Peace. Serve the Lord.
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
5/13/20
Frederick Buechner defines vocation as “the place God calls you to is the place where your deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger meet.” The world hungers for more people like Paul Cary. He was a firefighter and a paramedic who answered a call to serve in New York City during the pandemic. His fellow paramedic said he lived by these words: Be humble and go help people. That’s exactly what he did.
Click the link below to watch the story. You can share your thoughts in our comment section below.
Prayer of Thanks
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
5/6/20
Jesus tells us in Matthew’s Gospel to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:39). These words are part of the Great Commandment. One nurse from North Carolina is living those words. She is serving in New York City because it’s her “duty” to help, to care, to love. Her story is one of selfless giving. It’s a lesson she has taught her sons, and it’s a lesson she’s teaching us.
Click the link below to meet her.
Please take some time to pray a prayer of thanks for nurses today.
Light is Hope
Andrea Cain, Senior Pastor
4/27/20
For the last month, the village of Zermatt, Switzerland shared global signs of hope, solidarity, and gratitude with a light projection of every country in the world by light artist, Gerry Hofstetter. The village shows solidarity with all the people who are currently suffering and is grateful to all those who are helping to overcome the crisis. It will continue to bring joy to all hearts to see their country projected on this mighty mountain as as symbol of unity, strength and an anchor of hope.
Click the first link below to see the images. Click the second link to read Pastor Andrea’s recent letter to Desert Cross referencing this project.
I Remember Your Eyes
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
4/22/20
I don’t know if Dr. Halleh Akbarnia believes in God. I don’t know if Mr. C believes in God. I do know this . . . I see God’s light in them.
Click the link below to read about them and how they’re helping each other survive the pandemic.
Love Spread More Quickly
Denise Viker, Parish Nurse
4/15/20
In these difficult days, we sometimes run out of words to express how we’re feeling. We may even run out of words during our prayers. Click the link below to watch and pray a visual prayer.
Peace to you.
Alleluia!
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
4/13/20
More than three hundred United Methodists from around the world gathered online to create this amazing video.
He is risen! He is risen indeed! Alleluia!
Click the link below to enjoy some beautiful music.
The Lessons of Maundy Thursday
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
4/9/20
At our Maundy Thursday Worship Service, we hear the following verses from John 13:
. . . 12 After he had washed their feet, had put on his robe, and had returned to the table, he said to them, “Do you know what I have done to you? 13 You call me Teacher and Lord—and you are right, for that is what I am. 14 So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. 15 For I have set you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you. 16 Very truly, I tell you, servants are not greater than their master, nor are messengers greater than the one who sent them. 17 If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them . . . 34 I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. 35 By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”
There are many to admire in these difficult days. The truck driver, the grocery store clerk, the first responders, the healthcare workers, the list goes on. Don Giuseppe Berardelli is probably not a name most of us know, but he’s an example of true service and sacrificial love. As a priest, he knew the verses from John 13 well . . . and he lived them. He was ill with COVID-19, and he gave up his ventilator so that another could live. Let’s remember how he lived out the teachings of Jesus on this Maundy Thursday.
You can learn more about him by clicking the link below.
Peace to you.
The Lessons of Maundy Thursday
Signs of Hope
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
4/6/20
Last week Desert Cross received an email asking us to share pictures of Signs of Hope we see around us in these difficult days. By chance, I took the photograph above last week. I left the house for a walk feeling quite overwhelmed by the news reports. The shortage of personal protective equipment. The rising number of positive tests for COVID-19. The increasing number of deaths. The heartbreak of those left behind with no chance to care for their loved ones in their last days. The projections of what we’re facing in the days and weeks ahead. Quite frankly, I felt hopeless, and then I saw this written on the sidewalk in front of a neighbor’s house. It was a Sign of Hope for me. I hope it is for you too. Peace.
Pictures from the Front Porch
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
4/2/20
We’re spending a lot of time at home these days. Staying home is an important way all of us can protect each other, but we’re missing each other. We’re missing our families. We’re missing our friends. We’re missing our co-workers. A photographer in the Twin Cities is helping folks stay connected through photography. He’s taking pictures of people on their front porches. What a beautiful gift! You can watch the story by clicking the link below.
We thought it’d be fun to join in our own way. Take a picture of yourself on your front porch and share it along with the link to today’s post on our faith formation website with your family and friends. Reach out to your Desert Cross family too! It’s a fun way for us to stay connected!
Here’s a picture of my husband Mike and me at home.
Stay home. Stay safe. Stay connected.
Bible Project: Church at Home
Andrea Cain, Senior Pastor
3/23/20
Here is an excellent home bible study option for you to do alone, with family, or on Zoom with your friends and small groups. Last Advent, we introduced The Bible Project videos to you with word studies of our weekly themes of Hope, Love, Peace, and Joy. We use The Bible Project videos in Adult Forum on Sundays and also in Confirmation. The folks at Bible Project have used their gifts to create a resource for churches to use in this time of social distancing. Let’s come together around God’s word in a brand new way each week!
Use the link below to check it out. You can even sign up to receive it directly in your email from Bible Project. Share your comments with us by using the comment section below.
Acting on Acts 20:35
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
3/19/20
My husband watches a lot of sports on television. I sometimes join him, but when it comes to ASU and U of A we’re a divided family. Go ASU!
Dave Pasch often broadcasts games we watch. He’s on so often that we jokingly wonder if he’s ever home. Well, he’s making a huge difference in his home state now. He’s helping others, and he’s challenging all of us to help as we can. Maybe it’s getting groceries for an elderly neighbor. Maybe it’s making a phone call and checking in with someone. In these strange days, maybe it’s sharing part of that coveted package of toilet paper!
Click the link below to read Mr. Pasch’s story. It’ll inspire you . . . and give you some hope. Use the comment section below to share your thoughts with us.
For the Good of All
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
3/14/20
The following are excerpts from an editorial in The Washington Post. Good words for all of us to remember these days.
Prayers for peace and health to all.
From The Washington Post:
Amid dread and uncertainty, the American people are displaying extraordinary purpose and motivation to meet the coronavirus threat head-on. From darkening Broadway to silencing professional and amateur sports leagues, from closing Disneyland to shuttering cathedrals, we are witnessing the response of an open democratic society, with unfettered news and social media, and civic and political institutions and leadership ready to make hard decisions. This is America at its best.
Ever since experts began calling for social distancing to reduce transmission of the respiratory virus, people in the United States have demonstrated they were listening. Their actions have ranged from small acts of kindness, such as a young woman buying groceries for an elderly couple, to disruptive decisions that until recently would have seemed unthinkable, such as emptying sports stadiums and turning out the lights at universities. Costly, emotionally fraught choices have engendered remarkably little complaining or bitterness.
After a slow start, the nation is mobilizing impressively. We will all be called on to show patience, resilience and determination. There’s no way to know how long the test will last, but we have the capacity, as a nation and a society, to make it through.
Lent 101
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
2/26/20
Our Lenten journey begins today with Ash Wednesday. Ashes are only one of the faith practices of Lent. Some adopt a devotional book. Some add a new way to serve. Others fast or pray. Click the link below for Lent 101. You may find a new way to practice Lent this year.
Epiphany
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
1/6/20
The dictionary defines Epiphany as the sudden understanding of something, a realization, an illuminating discovery. For the Church, Epiphany is about the coming of the Magi to visit the newborn Jesus. Today we’re sharing some information from our Methodist brothers and sisters about Epiphany.
Click the link below to learn more about the Season of Epiphany and how it’s celebrated around the world.
Peace & Hope
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
12/16/19
As you know from my previous post, my husband and I made a trip “across the pond” to England, Scotland, and Ireland in October. While there, we visited St. Anne’s Church in Cork, Ireland. We were struck by a Peace Banner on display in the sanctuary. The letters were formed by the handprints of children. It was beautiful. But even more amazing were the ways they defined Peace.
Jacobe wrote, “Peace is neutrality between all countries.” Another child defined peace as “when my mum and I spend time together.” Most striking were Anouck’s words: “Peace means a quiet little haven where there is no war and everyone gets along.” You can check out pictures of the banner and the definitions below.
The kids at Desert Cross made a similar banner during education recently. Their banner is a Hope Banner. You can see it at the midweek Advent worship services on Wednesday. We’ll be adding our definitions of Hope.
Baptism
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
12/4/19
Our grandson, Miles, is being baptized Sunday. Before this, our kids were brought for baptism. Before that, my parents brought me for baptism. Before that, my husband’s parents brought him for baptism. And so on and so on. Our faith is passed on from generation to generation. Baptism has been on my mind for a few weeks because of something I saw recently.
My husband and I took a trip to England, Scotland, and Ireland in October. While we were there, we visited St. Anne’s Church, an Anglican church in Cork, Ireland. We went to climb the clock tower and to ring the Shandon Bells. You can check out the photos below of Mike climbing the 132 steps and ringing the bells. We certainly got our exercise that day!
After that, we went in the sanctuary. There we saw an amazing baptismal font. The font was made in 1629. The pewter bowl insert was added in 1773. The font is still used for baptisms today. How many people, young and old, have been baptized in that font? How many generations have passed on the faith in, and outside, the walls of that church? What a gift. I’m including a photo of the font and a photo of the sign explaining its history.
Who brought you for baptism? Who passed on the faith to you? Use the comment section below to share your stories.
Navigating the Digital Age
Andrea Cain, Senior Pastor
10/30/19
The digital age has changed how we work, communicate, learn, and play. It’s even changing how we parent. We’re sharing this article on our Adult page, and it applies to all of us, with or without kids. It’s helpful for parents of young children in thinking ahead and parents with older children who are in the midst of navigating the digital world. The article connects the digital world and social media with faith in daily life. This is a new perspective in thinking about how we use our phones and how we guide our children in that world.
Click the link below to read the article.
Please share your thoughts in the comment section below.
Helping a Neighbor
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
10/2/19
The Jewish High Holidays are here. Tree of Life Synagogue was the site of a horrific shooting last year. That congregation is still in mourning, but they’re opening their doors for worship. In fact, they’re holding services at a nearby Episcopal church. It’s an amazing demonstration of helping a neighbor.
Click the link below to listen to a story about this beautiful partnership.
Use the comment section below to share your stories of witnessing people of different faiths showing kindness and peace towards one another.
Peace in your Grief
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
9/25/19
Stephen Colbert is better known for making jokes on late night television. Anderson Cooper is better known for reporting the news. In this powerful conversation, the two of them talk about their personal grief and how to get through such a difficult time in life.
Click the link below to watch the conversation.
Use the comment section below to share your thoughts and experience with us.
Peace to you.
Deep Sea Diving . . . In a Wheelchair
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
8/26/19
During Sunday’s sermon, Pastor Andrea talked about how following the teachings of Jesus can change our perspective and make us think of things in new ways. To demonstrate this teaching, Pastor Andrea referenced a TED Talk by Sue Austin. She lives her life in a wheelchair. Ms. Austin says the wheelchair is a tool for her that gives her freedom; yet, she discovered that others view it as a restrictive object of limitation. To challenge this thinking, Ms. Austin came up with the idea of an underwater wheelchair for scuba diving. Yes, you read that correctly. Scuba diving in a wheelchair. Talk about thinking with a new perspective!
Click the link below to hear Ms. Austin’s talk and to see the amazing video of her Deep Sea Diving . . . In a Wheelchair.
In case you missed the sermon, we’re including a link to it too so that you can listen to it.
When has your perspective changed? How was it changed? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.
Listen to Pastor Andrea’s Sermon–August 25, 2019
Remembering Rachel Held Evans
Denise McClellan, Director of Adult Ministries
8/19/19
Rachel Held Evans, Christian author and theologian, died a few months ago. Rachel was a popular, young voice in the Christian community. She grew up in a fundamentalist church, started exploring her faith, asked lots and lots of questions, and encouraged her readers to explore their questions with her. For some, her honesty gave them permission to not always have the answer.
We’re sharing some links with you to get to know Rachel a bit better. The first link is from a podcast called The Bible for Normal People. It’s one of the last conversations recorded with Rachel prior to her illness.
The second link is to another podcast called The Daily. It discusses the legacy of Rachel Held Evans.
The final link is to the message of hope delivered by Nadia Bolz-Weber, an ELCA pastor, at Rachel’s funeral.
Take a listen and share your thoughts below. Have you read any of her books? Do you want to recommend one to us? Please post a comment and let us know.
Desert Cross Faith Formation 
I appreciate her comment about exploring, struggling with, and asking questions about the stories of the bible and not “expecting quick or easy answers” from it. This made me think of ChristCare groups at Desert Cross. In these groups we explore, share, question, make connections and more!
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Shannon, thanks for sharing your experience. I, too, have found ChristCare Groups to be a safe place to have doubts and to ask questions. It’s been a comfort and a joy to experience that kind of open conversation.
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We showed the video of Sue Austin to our grandkids, and they said she looked like a mermaid!
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We saw the church when we were in Cork. Your story and the age of the church is a reminder of the lasting grace and how important it is to pass the faith down to the ages.
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Lola, you said it very well. Thank you.
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