Becoming Refugia

Christians share the Trinity, the Bible, and creeds. Differences include celibacy, women in ministry, veneration of Mary, and sacraments. Pastors Dan and Jody conclude that we should unite around loving God, loving others, and changing the world. Messages from Douglas UCC is made with Jetpack Podcast. Full show notes and every episode at https://duccpodcast.wordpress.com/

Pastor Dan reflects on finding sainthood in ordinary people who show kindness, forgiveness, and compassion. He celebrates the congregation’s support for a courageous Texas teacher and considers how others inspire us to become better people. Messages from Douglas UCC is made with Jetpack Podcast. Full show notes and every episode at https://duccpodcast.wordpress.com/

Jesus commanded us to love God and our neighbors. Pastor Jody says listening is the foundation and describes four dimensions of love: heart (prayer and emotional connection), soul (passion), mind (intellectual growth), and strength (energy). Messages from Douglas UCC is made with Jetpack Podcast. Full show notes and every episode at https://duccpodcast.wordpress.com/

How does a religious person relate to religion and to government? The Pharisees asked Jesus a question like this as a trap. Rev. Linda explains how Jesus' answer can shape how we relate to government and God. Messages from Douglas UCC is made with Jetpack Podcast. Full show notes and every episode at https://duccpodcast.wordpress.com/

What keeps you from falling asleep or going back to sleep after waking at 3 AM? Like us, the Israelites worried about money, health, relationships, and the future. Jim DeVries explores how to learn from their experiences and the making of the golden calf. Messages from Douglas UCC is made with Jetpack Podcast. Full show notes and every episode at https://duccpodcast.wordpress.com/

Pastor Dan talks about a current controversy - a kindergarten teacher refusing to display a Ten Commandments poster. He also introduces nine new commandments drafted by Rabbi Baskin and proposes a tenth: "’lways support an underdog with a righteous cause.’ Messages from Douglas UCC is made with Jetpack Podcast. Full show notes and every episode at https://duccpodcast.wordpress.com/

As we wrap Creation Season, we risk feeling we have done our duty and can go on comfortably. But shouldn't we remain uncomfortable? Continue to do our ‘little work’? Messages from Douglas UCC is made with Jetpack Podcast. Full show notes and every episode at https://duccpodcast.wordpress.com/

Creation stories teach us to live in relationship with the natural world. Pastor Jody suggests three “house rules” for humans: gratitude, reciprocity, and learning from nature. These principles will help us move toward repair, reuse, and sustainability. Messages from Douglas UCC is made with Jetpack Podcast. Full show notes and every episode at https://duccpodcast.wordpress.com/

Biblical trees symbolize flourishing, healing, and our relationship with creation. The book of Revelation speaks of God’s intent to repair and heal the world, but Dr. Rienstra asks us not to wait; plant trees, protect forests, and repair ecosystems now! Messages from Douglas UCC is made with Jetpack Podcast. Full show notes and every episode at https://duccpodcast.wordpress.com/

In September, we’ll examine Debra Rienstra’s *Refugia Faith*. Refugia are places of safety where life can survive and renew. Pastor Jody starts with the refugia at Mount St. Helens and ends with Wendell Berry’s vision of joining our work to heaven’s. Messages from Douglas UCC is made with Jetpack Podcast. Full show notes and every episode at https://duccpodcast.wordpress.com/