July and August is a different pace of season for us at church. The choir will break for summer, providing individuals an opening to let their music gifts shine. I will be in some Sundays and out on family vacation others, but experienced clergy will step into the pulpit and proclaim a good word still. Robbie and the young will attend fun-filled and life-affirming camps. I hope all of you will find times to go meditate at the beach or on a mountain; we have both options in So Cal.
My family and I will visit Yosemite for the first time in years. The past four-year drought dried up the famous waterfalls and discouraged attendance at the park. Thanks to El Niño in Northern Cal this winter, the water is flowing again, so we are taking our daughter-in-law to see the grand cathedral for her first time.

I’ve long had a interest in weather. After theology, meteorology might have been a second career for me. A major attraction of California, at least along the coast, for millions of us who migrated here is the temperate climate. Yet everyday, both in our state and across the nation, there is further evidence that we are messing with mother nature. Not good!

The intensity, duration and occurrence of storms, tornadoes, floods, hail, heat, fires and wind is increasing across the landscape, and with good reason. We humans keep pumping more energy in the form of carbons and other chemicals into the atmosphere, water, and soil. It’s almost like biblical prophecies about apocalyptic end-times are actually coming true, unless we repent (i.e. change our ways). The soul of the world, and our survival, is at stake.

If ever the progressive spiritual message and lifestyle of Jesus, and the church who claims to be disciples of this Christ, is needed it is now. Every election year in our country is an important time to examine and debate the big issues and options before us as a people, and the values we profess. Do we include or exclude others? Do we share power and distribute blessings fairly? Is equal opportunity for all a reality or dream? Our Congregational ancestors helped start this experiment in democracy. We can do no less than educate ourselves, seek the Spirit’s guidance, and stay engaged. Let your spiritual conscience be your guide. So much is at stake.

From Independence Day to Labor Day: summer breaks, climate concerns, and national priorities.

On our Way ….
~Pastor Mike