First Thoughts Blog Archives - Page 2 of 4

Two large fireworks with orange and blue streaks explode above the roof of First Presbyterian Baton Rouge, lighting up the night sky.

Is This Sci-Fi? Growing in Christ in the New Year

2025! Sounds like a song from the 60’s about a far distant dystopian future. Shouldn’t we all be riding in sky cars like on the Jetsons cartoon? And how is the…

Stained glass window with geometric shapes and patterns at First Presbyterian Baton Rouge, overlaid with "Season of Memories and Hope.

Advent: A Season of Memories and Hopes

At the close of the year, we welcome the loosening of heat’s grip (at last) and the pleasantness of our town in these months. We also start thinking about Thanksgiving…

Two hands form a heart shape framing the setting sun, with an orange sky behind—capturing warmth at Baton Rouge Presbyterian Church.

Neither Optimist nor Pessimist: Finding a Balance

My mother always called me a pessimist and my usual reply was to say that I’m simply a realist. I think most of us have grown to feel this way….

Text "So Much Still Ahead" centered on abstract blue and purple shapes, echoing the spirit of First Presbyterian Baton Rouge.

So Much Still Ahead: Retiring From First Presbyterian Church

I have to tell you, it’s been really hard for me making a decision to announce my retirement so far in advance. It feels like something that in reality it…

A close-up of bright yellow sunflowers in a field under a blue sky, reminiscent of Baton Rouge Presbyterian Church services' warmth.

Looking Ahead to Fall at First Presbyterian Church

And just like that lazy days of summer are gone and a new school year arrives. It’s the very definition of the word “oxymoron” to talk about the fall programs…

Church Planting, Staff Changes and Celebrations at FPCBR

May is the time we joyfully witness about 25 6th graders make their public profession of faith. We also send off our high school seniors with blessing prayers. And we…

Black-and-white photo of a man with medium-length hair in a button-down shirt holding an acoustic guitar at First Presbyterian Baton Rouge.

The Joy of Rhythms: Seasonal Changes at First Presbyterian

“Summer’s here, I’m for that, got my rubber sandals, got my straw hat.” Remember that old song by James Taylor? Even as the heat moves in, we feel the excitement…

Two women hold up a colorful handmade quilt outdoors as members of First Presbyterian Baton Rouge stand behind them in traditional clothing.

God’s Hand Was in Everything: Uganda, Jordan, Egypt and Lebanon

My most recent trip to Uganda, Jordan, Egypt and Lebanon was truly one of the most encouraging mission trips of my life. I saw God’s hand in everything; from the…

Person relaxing in a hammock, sneakers on, green pants, as their dog looks up—just another peaceful day near First Presbyterian Baton Rouge.

The Gift of a Sabbatical

After 7 years serving at First Presbyterian, and 27 years of full-time ministry, the session has blessed me with a much-appreciated sabbatical. I am thankful and eager for the time…

FPCBR Blog

Is This Sci-Fi? Growing in Christ in the New Year

Advent: A Season of Memories and Hopes

Neither Optimist nor Pessimist: Finding a Balance

So Much Still Ahead: Retiring From First Presbyterian Church

Looking Ahead to Fall at First Presbyterian Church

Church Planting, Staff Changes and Celebrations at FPCBR

The Joy of Rhythms: Seasonal Changes at First Presbyterian

God’s Hand Was in Everything: Uganda, Jordan, Egypt and Lebanon

The Gift of a Sabbatical

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