Like any optimistic, but all-too-human minister, I believe in trial and error (and deep breathing!) when it comes to getting organized. Years ago, at a Minister’s meeting, a colleague recommended an approach called “the block system” and I thought, “Eureka, I’m saved!” I even recommended it to my son. Sam, (a high schooler at the…

I often receive handcrafted delicious food gifts from congregants during the holiday season (no pressure, I promise!) In the olden days, ministers were frequently paid in provisions — potatoes and beef, soap, candles, cakes, bread and linens. One could say that the tradition lives on in magical ways. It surely did in a New England…

As Thanksgiving approaches each November, with the accompanying food magazine frenzy over “the best stuffing recipe ever” and miraculous “to-die-for-but-low-fat” mashed potatoes, I ask myself: Is it really necessary to do something “new” with dinner this year? Honestly, I’d still be ecstatic to finally master lump-free gravy…and make enough! Oh, and don’t forget to thaw…