Whether we live in urban environments like Philadelphia or Pittsburgh, small towns like Latrobe, Pa., or in rural villages, most people’s natural tendency is to use whatever power and influence we have for self-serving purposes. We often abuse our God-given privileges by prominently doing good to those who can reciprocate our generosity. Privilege comes wearing many…
Coping with Grief During the Holidays
“It’s the most wonderful time of the year!” That’s what the peppy Christmas songs tell us, but if you’ve recently suffered a loss – such as the death of a loved one, a broken relationship, or sudden unemployment – these words may ring very hollow. In fact, almost everything about the holiday season tends to…
Sowing Shalom as a Church Planter
On Dec. 3, 2014, church planter Dan Steigerwald presented “Sowing Shalom in Our Own Backyard” at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. Dan argues that as the Church continues to lose its voice and influence across America, we face a growing urgency to re-engage our neighborhoods and cities. To do this, churches must become adept at growing local…