Receiving This Life: Practicing the Deepest Belonging
Kara Root’s message is this: Receive what is. Receive what is difficult. Receive what God is doing. Receive what God has already done. Receive what will be. Receive it all. — Philip J. Reed
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Discussion guide for December 2023 issue
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.
Where is Jesus?
Asking "Where is Jesus?" can help us find love and light in unexpected places and people, writes Bobby Hulme-Lippert.
Cozy post-Christmas reading
Here's a short list of books appropriate for that quiet reading time after Christmas. Enjoy!
Psalms of Wonder: Poems from the Book of Songs
Carey Wallace and Khoa Le create a book that is a gift for early elementary-age children and adults alike, writes Amy Pagliarella.
Staff picks: Our favorite Outlook stories of 2023
You've seen the crowd-favorite Outlook articles of 2023. This list includes the articles we love, but maybe you haven't seen yet!
What does “faith” actually mean? (January 7, 2024)
"The author of Hebrews is not interested in an extended theological discussion of faith but would rather show examples of precisely what that means to build up the church and its faithfulness," writes Tara Bulger.
Baptism of the Lord Sunday — January 7, 2024
Mark’s Gospel will continually draw us to the margins, de-centering power and privilege. It’s an invitation for us to to leave our comfort zones, writes Stephanie Sorge.
Order of worship — January 7, 2024
You are welcome to use this liturgy in your online worship services and distribute it to your congregation
Following the light — Weekly Christian ed lesson
In this lesson, children will explore the Epiphany story (Matthew 2:1-12) and will consider the significance of a group of unlikely people honoring and caring for the baby Jesus.
No Christmas in Bethlehem: A litany
"How can we celebrate Christmas when there is no Christmas in Bethlehem?" writes Bruce Reyes-Chow.
Shattered illusions and sacred encounters: A journey through the woods
In the woods, writes Karie Charlton, we find doors to new beginnings, even in the depths of winter.
Incarnation
A tritina form poem by Nadine Ellsworth-Moran on Madeleine L'Engle's Christmas quote: "Love still takes the risk of birth."
Christmas celebrations canceled, Christians in the Holy Land still find hope in the season
'Do not let death rejoice in its victory over us,' said one writer.
The top Outlook book recommendations of 2023
Whether it's in the magazine, on the website or in our monthly book newsletter, Book Review Editor Amy Pagliarella always has a reading recommendation. These are the top 10 books our readers decided to purchase in 2023.
5 things the Catholic Church’s document on same-sex blessings does (and doesn’t) say
The Vatican approved same-sex blessings, but there are a few caveats.
Feeling the squeeze: Financial pressures add up for PC(USA) congregations
The cost of maintaining an installed pastor with benefits is a growing concern for churches and presbyteries.
With Pope Francis’ encouragement, Vatican allows blessings for same-sex couples
'God never turns away anyone who approaches him!' read the document issued by the Vatican's doctrinal department.
The top 10 Outlook stories of 2023
From Taylor Swift to a "text of terror" to Robert's Rules. See the Outlook's top 10 stories from 2023.
Reflections at an ordination
There is no sure-fire recipe guaranteed to produce faith, Ronald Byars writes. Maybe that’s why so many testify that their faith came as a gift.
Church of England to introduce same-sex blessing, as it faces ‘disestablishment’ bill in Parliament
The prayers may be too little too late on an issue that has long alienated the church from politicians and peers.
Imagination, vocation and the Three Wise Men (December 31, 2023)
Chris Burton reflects on the Three Wise Men: "We delude ourselves thinking that there will never be trouble. On the contrary, our testimony matures because in the face of significant trouble, God delivers us."
Lawsuit: Priest says first gas execution in US poses threat to religious liberty
The Rev. Jeff Hood, spiritual adviser to Kenneth Smith, argued the restrictions imposed during the execution would violate Hood’s right to the free exercise of religion.
Sing of his birth — Weekly Christian ed lesson
In this lesson, children will explore and wonder about the experiences of the characters present on the night Jesus was born through Christmas hymns.
Order of worship — December 31, 2023
You are welcome to use this liturgy in your online worship services and distribute it to your congregation.
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