Before Lent
Ash Wednesday is February 18. This is the day that marks the beginning of our Lenten journey. Ash Wednesday invites introspection and reflection. It’s a time in the Christian calendar … Continue reading Before Lent
Theologian & pastor Matthew Tennant's blog

Ash Wednesday is February 18. This is the day that marks the beginning of our Lenten journey. Ash Wednesday invites introspection and reflection. It’s a time in the Christian calendar … Continue reading Before Lent
Throughout our Advent journey, we’ve used the prophet Isaiah as our guide. To continue our post-Christmas journey, it helps to consider pre-Christmas stops. Beginning in Isaiah 2, we looked at … Continue reading “Growing Through Suffering” a sermon from Hebrews 2.10-18
Edwards Deming was an electrical engineer who became a pioneer in systems management. He developed sampling techniques still used by the U.S. Department of the Census and the Bureau of … Continue reading What is our church designed to produce?
A perennial challenge for Christ-followers is living in the world but not becoming of the world (John 17.14-16). We seek God first (Matthew 7.7) and love our neighbors (Mark 12.30-31). … Continue reading Connecting God & the News
For the last 150 years or so, many thoughtful Christ-followers have had trouble with 2 Timothy. I don’t know if you’re one of them. I’ve struggled with it. In fact, … Continue reading Reflection on 2 Timothy 3.14-4.5
Inspired by the story of the President sharing a racist social media post, I made a reel called “Racism is not part of following Jesus.” In the deepfake video shared … Continue reading How Not to be Racist
“Do your jobs.” That’s what I would imagine Jesus saying if he were here today and asked about the government shutdown. I am addressing the U.S. Federal Government shutdown that … Continue reading What would Jesus say about the government shutdown?
Each person who commits a horrific act of violence existed before they became known as “the shooter.” They had conversations. People knew them. They interacted with people, and they consumed … Continue reading What do you say to a mass shooter?
In 2022, I decided to take a break from my blog. Over this past year, there have been many times when I missed having this outlet to write my thoughts. … Continue reading I’m back…
During the month of September, my church focused on ecotheology. That is, our worship themes and mission projects emphasized caring for God’s creation. It so resonated with the congregation that … Continue reading A Lived Ecotheology
During retreats at Iona, we celebrate with a special Sunday lunch. Most meals are vegetarian for the environment and animal rights. On my retreat, we had lamb meatballs, tzatziki, carrots, … Continue reading Checking on the Mink Traps
During retreats at Iona, the organizers assign each pilgrim a job. Some people join in housekeeping, some people work in the kitchen, and others help with maintenance. During the introductions, … Continue reading Take Small Jobs Seriously
The story behind the hymn “It Is Well” is familiar to many people, but worth sharing again. I find it inspiring and hope you do too. Born in New York … Continue reading “It Is Well” Hymn Story