In each issue of the Outlook, we include a discussion guide to further reflect on the issue. We recommend using this guide in your Bible study, small group or book club. It's our invitation into a faithful conversation.
Leslie Scanlon profiles the noted Presbyterian pastor and theologian whose livelong work was inspired by Martin Luther King Jr.’s concept of the beloved community.
Lee Hinson Hasty reflects on the work being done to adapt theological education and the holiness of fostering change.
Environmental stewardship fuels Patricia Tull’s work with Baby Boomers to provide a brighter future for generations to come.
Katy Shevel briefly explores the historical meaning of Epiphany in the Eastern and Western churches, as well as the use of Star Words in modern Protestant congregations.
The story of the three Magi (magicians) in Matthew 2 reminds Aaron Neff that God is always revealing God's self in unexpected ways.
Andrew Taylor-Troutman, a father of two young boys, wonders if there is something sacred in mischief, even as it is sometimes annoying.
Can hope be a thing with feathers? A determined woman who won't stay down? The application of special face lotion? Karie Charlton says it is all these things and more.
Brian Blount on the gravity-free, unsettling, approach to preparing church leaders.
"There is great opportunity for reframing our pipeline of talent, ensuring we can provide the future of the church with educated and sharp theological thinkers who are capable of loving those who think differently than themselves."
Jimmie Hawkins reflects on 2022 and speaks a word of hope for 2023.
We've covered a lot of ground in 2022 including national news, denominational meetings, a three-week General Assembly and a year's worth of Sundays and holidays. Outside of our weekly worship resources, these are the most popular stories from 2022.
A word of gratitude and acknowledgment for the many donors who make the Outlook’s ministry possible.
Outlook's national reporter Leslie Scanlon will be moving on to new opportunities and challenges in 2023. We are grateful for her many years of faithful service.
Anna Kendig Flores shares how she picked up mountain biking as a 36-year-old, and what the activity has taught her about herself, the world, and God.
Theodore J. Wardlaw considers what changes will strengthen theological education in our “between the times” period.
Andrew Taylor-Troutman shares a lesson he learned from a local school board president.
"But hope is not a wish. ... Hope is trusting that no matter what pains or tragedies befall us, no matter what darkness envelopes us, no matter what grief we live with, that God is still here."
Whether in Handel's "Messiah" or Isaiah 9, Advent heralds the coming of the Prince of Peace. What does that mean to a society where religion and war are often interconnected?
Kelle J. Brown shares how her church uses a gold Christ candle instead of a white one. “Our need for [traditional symbols] should never outweigh our pursuit for inclusion,” she writes.
Presbyterian Outlook welcomes Dartinia Hull to our editorial staff.
A poem for December 21 by Scott Barton.
Envisioning new and creative possibilities for seminaries with Columbia Theological Seminary’s new president, Victor Aloyo.
A poem on Luke 2:1–20 by Scott Barton.
Pastor/parents are faced with a conundrum this year: do they force (or strongly encourage) their children to go to Sunday worship on Christmas? Andrew Taylor Troutman has decided yes, and here’s why.
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