Tag Archives: faith

July 28, 2024 – Jackson

Shepherd of the Mountains in Jackson, WY John 6:1-21 The feeding of the multitude is such a gift of a scripture passage to preach as a bishop who sees and experiences so much across our vast synod—88 ministry sites between … Continue reading

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Reflections After One Year

Originally published in the Northwest Intermountain Synod electronic-newsletter for July 2024. “14 Now after John was arrested, Jesus came to Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God, 15and saying, ‘The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near; repent, and believe … Continue reading

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July 14, 2024 – Wilbur

Wonderful morning with the saints of Wilbur Community Church in Wilbur, WA this morning. Wilbur is a federated Presbyterian USA/ELCA Congregation–meaning fully a member of both denominations. This became official in around 2020. They are currently served by Pr. Steven … Continue reading

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New Hope, Shoshone, June 30, 2024

Mark 5:21-43 21When Jesus had crossed again in the boat to the other side, a great crowd gathered around him; and he was by the sea. 22Then one of the leaders of the synagogue named Jairus came and, when he saw … Continue reading

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First Lutheran, Sandpoint Installation

June 2, 2024 Duane Fister’s Installation Acts 12:24-13:5a You have had quite a journey First Lutheran. First, with everyone else, you experienced a global pandemic. You said goodbye to a pastor and welcomed interims. You continue to steward your relationship … Continue reading

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Bonners Ferry, June 2

Trinity, Bonners Ferry 2 Cor. 4:5-12 These verses from 2nd Corinthians are, to my mind, among the most encouraging in all of scripture. They speak of the consistency of God’s loving care from the first day of creation to this present … Continue reading

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Ellensburg, Toppenish, Tri-Cities

Just less than a week ago I was getting ready to drive from Nampa to Ellensburg for our third of three Regional Gatherings. It was a long drive as I had not slept well the night before, but I took … Continue reading

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May 5, 2024 – Mountain Home

Grace Lutheran, Mountain Home Welcome Father Larry Spier John 15:9-17 Today Jesus builds on his simple metaphor: he is the vine, and we are the branches. The imperative is quite clear: love. I find that there is so much in … Continue reading

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April 28, 2024

Troy Lutheran, Troy, Idaho John 15:1-8 (Vine and Branches) Today’s gospel text, with its wonderful imagery of the vine and branches, poses challenging questions to the contemporary Christian community. It asks, what does it mean for the church to live … Continue reading

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Ministry and Life in the Upper Left

This last week was full, so full, of conversations and moments and beauty and all the things I love about this chapter of my life. My mom and I flew into Spokane from Phoenix and Boise respectively and drove over … Continue reading

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