Pastoring Through the Unimaginable

All funerals and memorial services are hard in their own way. Loved ones cry, friends struggle to speak suitable words, and family members hold up the best they can under the weight of sorrow. Every funeral hurts. —But some burn.

Traces of Faith

I was intrigued about the idea of walking a labyrinth and had made some half-hearted online searches to find one near me. But my first encounter was much different than I had imagined. I was co-facilitating a workshop, and my partner started the day by handing out a sheet of paper with a labyrinth printed on it. We were instructed to trace our finger along the path while listening for how God might speak. To say I was skeptical is an understatement. However, I decided to keep an open mind and give it a try.

A Shadow of Hope

Whenever I hear Austin Channing Brown interviewed about her book I’m Still Here: Black Dignity in a World Made for Whiteness, one of the first questions she is asked refers to the opening line of her book: “White people can be exhausting.” It’s more than just a provocative first line—it sets the tone of the book. It’s a signal to readers that Brown is not going to dance around the truth in this space.

Meet and Greet Survival Guide

We are called to be part of the body. We need connection. So how do I navigate the parts of church that feel in opposition to
my nature?

Always on My Mind

Reality hit me a little more than six years ago when our doctor said, “This is Alzheimer’s.”

Leading Character

As we focus on developing new and future leaders in the Covenant, the Companion consulted Covenant ministers about what they’ve learned on the subject.

The Alpaca in the Manger

There are so many stories of Christmas. … And then there’s the one where the overly sincere parents try to bludgeon gratitude into their children.

Five Minutes with Josef Rasheed: 13 Weddings in Mozambique

Josef Rasheed is the regional coordinator for Africa with Serve Globally. In that role he facilitates, coaches, and serves as a resource for missionaries/global personnel, national partner organizations, and Covenant churches.