My childhood was full of routines and rituals, but there are two in particular that I have carried with me into my adult life: Ordering pizza on Sunday nights Writing thank you notes I’ve found that the act of writing a thank you note doesn’t just benefit the recipient. It also allows me to tap into the anticipation, excitement, and joy I felt in receiving the gift all over again. I’ll confess that these days I find myself putting pen to paper less often than I send a digital form of thanks....

More than a decade ago, while a student at Phillips Theological Seminary, I asked Rev. Dr. John Imbler what he expected out of his students. He shared with me that clergy should do no harm. Back then, I thought about how low the bar was when he said that clergy should do no harm. Now, I realize his words’ deep wisdom of care and caution. I’ve met many people, including myself, who have experienced trauma by clergy. And I have such deep appreciation and respect for clergy whose work is both...

Three pastors helped shape what I learned at CST and DSF, as well as in my ministry. They are Rev. Dr. Jo Ann Bynum, Rev. Jinseok Cheon,...