http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/ Tue, 04 Sep 2012 10:09:27 GMT en-us Copyright 2012 Morning Walk Media http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/prosperity-for-the-many-not-the-few/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/prosperity-for-the-many-not-the-few/ Mon, 03 Sep 2012 10:02:16 GMT By Tom Ehrich In my early days with The Wall Street Journal, I helped to cover the steel industry in Pittsburgh. US Steel had installed a lawyer as CEO. He knew nothing about making or selling steel. His only strategy, as I recall, was to ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/three-preachers-gol-into-a-pulpit/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/three-preachers-gol-into-a-pulpit/ Thu, 30 Aug 2012 10:04:09 GMT By Tom Ehrich Let's make up a preacher joke. A Southern Baptist preacher stands in the pulpit, waves the American flag, excoriates the President, and calls for constitutional amendments banning abortion and same-gender marria... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/protect-the-right-to-vote/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/protect-the-right-to-vote/ Tue, 28 Aug 2012 10:06:22 GMT By Tom Ehrich My father was a “Taft Republican,” the conservative wing of the GOP led by Sen. Robert Taft. When Gen. Eisenhower prevailed at the 1952 GOP convention, my father loyally began to work for Ike's election. Most ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/turn-nightmare-into-jewel/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/turn-nightmare-into-jewel/ Tue, 21 Aug 2012 10:09:26 GMT By Tom Ehrich Bryant Park is alive! The main lawn of the 9.6-acre Paris-style park behind the New York Public Library in Midtown is already filled with people waiting for tonight's free movie on an enormous screen. Children ride the ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/too-much-suit-ness/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/too-much-suit-ness/ Fri, 17 Aug 2012 19:08:08 GMT In a favorite show called “White Collar,” an off-center character named Mozzie refers to his friend Neal's FBI colleagues as “suits.” In his mind, nothing more need be said. “Suits” are bureaucrats, ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/we-need-a-healthy-free-press/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/we-need-a-healthy-free-press/ Wed, 15 Aug 2012 21:06:29 GMT By Tom Ehrich When political scoundrels lie and citizens get confused by the blizzard of deceptions, it makes you appreciate the value of a free and independent press, staffed by wise reporters who know how to check facts, sift through ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/religious-freedom-means-freedom/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/religious-freedom-means-freedom/ Tue, 07 Aug 2012 21:09:11 GMT By Tom Ehrich It is bizarre to see conservative Christians playing the victim role in “religious freedom.” Roman Catholic bishops, for example, have decided to brand President Obama as an enemy of religious freedom. What they mean, ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/gymnast-surrounded-by-vultures/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/gymnast-surrounded-by-vultures/ Mon, 06 Aug 2012 21:11:39 GMT I felt sorry for 16-year-old US gymnast McKayla Maroney last evening. She seemed to be surrounded by vultures. Yes, she failed to stick her landing on the vault. Yes, she missed a gold medal. But it was the vultures who made me sad for ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/thinking-for-myself/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/thinking-for-myself/ Mon, 30 Jul 2012 21:13:50 GMT By Tom Ehrich I was checking Facebook and came across a sequence from the London Olympics opening ceremony that NBC had refused to show. I watched it anyway, was deeply moved, and couldn’t fathom why NBC thought I shouldn't see it. ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/jesus-the-radical/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/jesus-the-radical/ Thu, 26 Jul 2012 21:16:19 GMT By Tom Ehrich Arguments between “liberal” and “conservative” Christians tend to be wordy, venomous, and grounded in stereotypes. They shed little light beyond the glare of strongly held positions. Liberal Christians, ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/shouting-and-shooting/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/shouting-and-shooting/ Tue, 24 Jul 2012 21:18:38 GMT By Tom Ehrich Killings in Aurora, CO, immediately stirred unresolved issues about gun control in America. Just as quickly, the gun lobby shouted down those concerns. One Congressman said the answer was more guns, not fewer. I have been ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/is-a-20000-watch-the-prize/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/is-a-20000-watch-the-prize/ Thu, 19 Jul 2012 21:29:36 GMT By Tom Ehrich Forget Wall Street. Today's "best and brightest" are heading for California's Silicon Valley and New York's Silicon Alley. Thousands of aspiring engineers, web developers, designers and marketers live in dormitories, work in ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/conservative-commentators-miss-the-mark/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/conservative-commentators-miss-the-mark/ Sun, 15 Jul 2012 21:32:39 GMT By Tom Ehrich Conservative commentators like Rupert Murdoch's predictable stable and Ross Douthat of The New York Times are feasting on what they perceive as the "death" of "liberal Christianity" and the Episcopal Church in particular. They ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/word-to-vacationers-go-for-it/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/word-to-vacationers-go-for-it/ Fri, 13 Jul 2012 18:27:25 GMT By Tom Ehrich When I sent out my Church Wellness Report this morning, I immediately received a slew of away-on-vacation auto-responders. All I can say is: Way to go! Take those vacations. Be kind to your family. Be kind to yourself. Work ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/hopeful-signs-in-indianapolis/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/hopeful-signs-in-indianapolis/ Thu, 12 Jul 2012 18:29:27 GMT By Tom Ehrich The closing at Episcopal General Convention 2012 in Indianapolis brings to mind Detroit 1988, when I edited "The General Convention Daily." The soul of that convention lay on the floor of Cobo Hall: hundreds of fabric squares ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/your-needs-not-mine/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/your-needs-not-mine/ Mon, 09 Jul 2012 18:31:31 GMT By Tom Ehrich I've never met Art, a salesperson at M.L. Leddy's, one of the better boot makers in Texas. I simply inquired about ordering my second pair from their affordable Vaquero line. Art took the call. We chatted about Western boots for ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/flash-mob/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/flash-mob/ Mon, 27 Jun 2011 21:37:15 GMT How do you thank those who, when you were young, gave you wings to fly? Years ago, long before the term “flash mob” had emerged, Shortridge High School singers would perform in downtown Indianapolis and then go to the main ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/abuse-by-cell-phone/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/abuse-by-cell-phone/ Wed, 22 Jun 2011 21:26:20 GMT I saw the saddest sight this morning on West 53rd Street. A mother was walking her son to elementary school. Instead of helping him get ready for a challenging day, she was talking on her cell phone. Instead of helping her son feel confident ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/a-pastors-painful-question/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/a-pastors-painful-question/ Tue, 21 Jun 2011 14:11:11 GMT The question below touches a painful doubt that many people feel. What would you add to my response?   FAITH Q & A Q: I am wondering lately if the 'struggle' is worth the effort. The 'struggle' is my professional/denominational ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/now-heres-a-juxtaposition/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/now-heres-a-juxtaposition/ Fri, 17 Jun 2011 14:09:10 GMT A Wall Street intern got a bit mouthy on a commuter train yesterday. When asked by a conductor to pipe down, the intern fired back, “Do you know how well educated I am?” As if receiving a degree from New York University exempted ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/give-me-that-can-do-spirit/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/give-me-that-can-do-spirit/ Wed, 15 Jun 2011 14:06:45 GMT Three years ago, I took a young woman to lunch at Burger Heaven on East 49th Street. I could tell she was special to our middle son. I wanted to know her better. Today my wife and I ordered invitations to a “Welcome Dinner” in ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/making-a-to-do-list/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/making-a-to-do-list/ Tue, 14 Jun 2011 22:02:28 GMT I start each day by saying my prayers, writing in a journal, drinking strong coffee, writing my daily “On a Journey” piece, and then making a to-do list. That to-do list is the bridge between prayer and practice, between ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/no-owners-manual/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/no-owners-manual/ Mon, 13 Jun 2011 22:01:08 GMT I have found a new blogging tool that looks promising, but it has hardly any documentation. When I asked their support desk if they had a how-to guide, his answer was, “Not really.” Just a dozen answers to quasi-relevant ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/country-hymns/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/country-hymns/ Thu, 09 Jun 2011 22:37:54 GMT If you open an account with www.pandora.com, an Internet radio service, you can use their genre list to create a station called “Traditional Country Hymns.”And then you, too, can “sit” (virtually) in a simple country ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/start-your-engines/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/start-your-engines/ Wed, 25 May 2011 21:28:33 GMT Although I won't be in my regular seats across from pit row when the Indianapolis 500-Mile Race commences on Sunday, I know what will be happening. Armed forces will march to their special seats on the main straightaway, and grateful ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/family-dinner/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/family-dinner/ Mon, 23 May 2011 21:15:15 GMT I have loved being a parent ever since the first baby was born. But I love it more than ever now, as our sons become sturdy young men, as they partner with extraordinary young women, and as they make their ways in a fast-changing world. Knowing ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/planning-beyond-may-21/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/planning-beyond-may-21/ Fri, 20 May 2011 11:15:17 GMT One day until Judgment Day, say some eager for the Rapture who are convinced they will grab the brass ring. I decided to pay my bills anyway. And to pick up my son from college and encourage him in his job interview on Monday. And to proceed ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/kindness-at-brighton-beach/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/kindness-at-brighton-beach/ Mon, 09 May 2011 22:04:24 GMT After an hour-long ride on the Q train, my wife and I reached Brighton Beach at the far end of Brooklyn and immediately saw a Russian pastry stand outside a cafe. In a neighborhood of immigrants from Russia, Ukraine, Armenia, and elsewhere, ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/seminary-commencement----what-to-say/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/seminary-commencement----what-to-say/ Wed, 04 May 2011 21:52:41 GMT Next week I am giving the commencement address at Seabury Western Theological Seminary, an Episcopal school north of Chicago. Want to help? Those of you who attended seminary: what do you wish you had heard on graduation day, as you ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/as-to-killing-bin-laden-and-celebrating-it/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/as-to-killing-bin-laden-and-celebrating-it/ Tue, 03 May 2011 21:06:08 GMT A reader asked for my opinion on the killing of Osama Bin Laden. Should troops have killed the terrorist leader? Should citizens here and around the world have been so jubilant in celebrating it? I doubt that Christian ethics plays a large role ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/still-in-church-of-childhood/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/still-in-church-of-childhood/ Thu, 28 Apr 2011 22:26:01 GMT If you want to see some fascinating anecdotal data on church affiliation, go to my wall on Facebook and read friends' responses to a simple question: Were they still active in the denomination of their childhood? I invited them to share stories ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/moment-of-truth/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/moment-of-truth/ Wed, 27 Apr 2011 15:51:12 GMT I won't be among the hundreds of millions watching the royal wedding in London. But I am pleased to answer a reader's question about its meaning as a religious moment. (See below.) My larger point is that a moment of truth has come to organized ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/variety-and-more-variety/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/variety-and-more-variety/ Mon, 25 Apr 2011 20:52:04 GMT The church where I worship had three distinctly different services on Easter: a quiet 9:00am, a formal 11:00am with brass and choir, and a lively 1:00pm with gospel choir and jazz combo. Three different audiences, three different ways of ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/improvement-not-perfection/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/improvement-not-perfection/ Thu, 21 Apr 2011 22:00:24 GMT When I weighed myself this morning, I had achieved a new milestone in my campaign to lose 40 pounds. As a result, when I passed an ice cream truck beside the New York Public Library this afternoon, I kept on walking. I didn't want to give that ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/people-helping-each-other/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/people-helping-each-other/ Tue, 19 Apr 2011 22:48:54 GMT I am thrilled with dialogs that are taking place on our new Church Wellness Report online network. Church leaders are asking questions, joining in conversation, sharing helpful advice, relating personal experience. I started the networks with ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/free-is-better/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/free-is-better/ Mon, 18 Apr 2011 22:29:06 GMT Some years ago, our church choir in North Carolina gave such an extraordinary performance of Handel's "Hallelujah!" that I burst into applause. An entire congregation looked at me as if their rector had lost his mind. I thought of that moment ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/thanks-for-customer-service/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/thanks-for-customer-service/ Fri, 15 Apr 2011 19:43:55 GMT We've all been there. Turn the computer on, and something doesn't work. Internet won't connect, application is frozen, printer won't function – the list of problems is endless. Where do you go for help? That is the first and most crucial ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/marketplace-language/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/marketplace-language/ Wed, 13 Apr 2011 21:37:46 GMT I had an interesting exchange today with a Facebook connection who didn't like my use of marketplace language to reflect on church matters. I had written a piece about "customer service" and our need to do a better job of responding to people. ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/the-joy-of-friendship/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/the-joy-of-friendship/ Tue, 12 Apr 2011 22:28:17 GMT I had lunch with a colleague in ministry today. We talked business, we talked "clergy shop," and then, as if we had gotten the earnest vegetables out of the way, we talked Butler basketball. That was dessert. I don't doubt that we need a ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/go-ahead-re-invent-the-wheel/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/go-ahead-re-invent-the-wheel/ Mon, 11 Apr 2011 21:01:46 GMT Each day I read two dozen tech blogs and e-letters, partly because I'm intrigued by the technology people are inventing, but even more because I find inventiveness itself so appealing. I love the way eager minds take an existing tool and make ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/new-social-networks/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/new-social-networks/ Wed, 06 Apr 2011 21:06:54 GMT Like many people, I have become intrigued by Facebook and Twitter. Their ability to connect people in social networks is astounding. I enjoy opening TweetDeck and reading what people are saying, occasionally making a comment, as well as ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/getting-the-right-focus/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/getting-the-right-focus/ Tue, 05 Apr 2011 21:46:51 GMT An interesting survey appeared on my Facebook wall. It concerned church health and drew correlations between size, attendance and giving. My response was: important topic but the wrong focus. The issue isn't "fannies in the pews," as a friend ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/butler-vs-connecticut/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/butler-vs-connecticut/ Mon, 04 Apr 2011 22:08:56 GMT My high school used to play its football games at the Butler University practice field. On the wall of the home dressing room was the Bulldogs' motto: "It's not the size of the dog in the fight. It's the size of the fight in the dog." I will be ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/change-yes-or-no/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/change-yes-or-no/ Fri, 01 Apr 2011 18:20:22 GMT Last summer I made a major move from one CRM (customer relationship management) application to a new app that had more of what I needed and less of what I didn't need. Since then, I have invested many hours, first, in transferring data from old ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/no-more-boring/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/no-more-boring/ Thu, 31 Mar 2011 15:57:53 GMT A Facebook friend said she had been discussing spirituality with college students. When she asked why traditional church wasn't part of their thinking, they told her, "Church is boring." My Facebook friend asked, "What to do?" My answer: "Stop ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/two-essential-res-respect-and-relationship/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/two-essential-res-respect-and-relationship/ Wed, 30 Mar 2011 15:16:00 GMT Like any professionals, clergy get tired of people telling them how to do their jobs. Too many critics are playing "fix the pastor." Churches are complex systems, whose up seasons and down seasons are shaped by many players, not just clergy, ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/some-sang-some-served-in-other-ways/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/some-sang-some-served-in-other-ways/ Mon, 28 Mar 2011 22:10:26 GMT Saturday's Gospel Festival was a glorious revelation. We discovered that our relatively new choir could hold its own alongside two of Harlem's leading ensembles. We discovered that Gospel music is an amazingly diverse genre. Three choirs did ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/listen-up----wow-arent-we-something/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/listen-up----wow-arent-we-something/ Thu, 24 Mar 2011 21:10:26 GMT In my Church Wellness Report today, I urged church leaders to "listen to the marketplace," meaning the world outside church doors. Splendid isolation no longer works. Doing so has some risks, namely, that we will hear more needs and yearnings ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/seeing-god-late-in-the-day/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/seeing-god-late-in-the-day/ Wed, 23 Mar 2011 21:39:18 GMT Blogging experts say you should blog early in the day, when people are reading their e-mail. I tend to blog in late afternoon, as my work day is winding down, my mind is tired from writing, and I look out my window at Midtown Manhattan and, ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/why-do-we-keep-god-small/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/why-do-we-keep-god-small/ Tue, 22 Mar 2011 20:06:26 GMT One night, a controlling person asked me, "Tom where is your little meeting?" I replied, "I don't do 'little' meetings." A silly exchange, I later realized, but revealing. It spoke to an almost desperate need that many religious people have to ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/questioning-assumptions/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/questioning-assumptions/ Mon, 21 Mar 2011 20:57:49 GMT Today's faith question is long, and my answer is longer. I'll let it have center stage in today's post. But I did want to note that many are questioning some of Christianity's well-traveled assumptions. Not because they refuse to believe, but ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/jesus-an-ipad-guy/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/jesus-an-ipad-guy/ Sat, 19 Mar 2011 13:22:12 GMT Next time I preach, I want to go into the pulpit with my text on an iPad. Because I am a "gadget guy"? Maybe. But more, because I want to be as fresh and lively as I can possibly be, while respecting norms of duration and clarity. I want to ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/nuclear-disaster/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/nuclear-disaster/ Thu, 17 Mar 2011 15:36:14 GMT As a tragic nuclear disaster unfolds in Japan, I remember articles I wrote years ago for The Wall Street Journal about using nuclear power to generate electricity. If projections played out, nuclear plants could be affordable to build and safe ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/question-about-mary/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/question-about-mary/ Mon, 14 Mar 2011 22:35:25 GMT I was pleased when Presbyterian Outlook asked me to present a webinar tomorrow on "Turnaround Strategies for Your Church." I know all the grim facts and figures about mainline churches. But I also know that our progressive voice is needed and ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/webinar-on-turnaround-strategies/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/webinar-on-turnaround-strategies/ Fri, 11 Mar 2011 22:40:07 GMT Next Tuesday I will be presenter in a webinar on "Turnaround Strategies for Your Church." It's being offered by Presbyterian Outlook, a national publication of the Presbyterian Church, for which I write a regular column. I'll be ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/church-killers-no-not-at-all/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/church-killers-no-not-at-all/ Wed, 09 Mar 2011 23:38:54 GMT I have yet to meet a church leader who wakes up each day saying, "Today I am going to kill my church." From what I see, church members and church leaders want their faith communities to survive, to succeed, even to thrive. They tend to get ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/discuss-everything-even-sacred-cows/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/discuss-everything-even-sacred-cows/ Tue, 08 Mar 2011 23:40:56 GMT When a problem seems intractable, look for the options, issues, non-negotiables and sacred cows that aren't allowed at the table. We are smart enough and adequately resourced to tackle virtually any problem. But if we draw a tight box around ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/talking-shop/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/talking-shop/ Mon, 07 Mar 2011 22:05:59 GMT I had a wonderful few hours last week with a pastor from Connecticut. He came into New York, and we just talked in my office about helping his congregation move forward with confidence and sound strategy. It was wonderful to be with someone ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/people-behaved-well/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/people-behaved-well/ Tue, 01 Mar 2011 23:30:13 GMT Both legs of my EWR-SFO-EWR trip were strange. On the flight west to San Francisco, an over-warm cabin and, I'm guessing, inadequate oxygen led people to engage in odd conversations, to lose fine-motor skills and to fret needlessly over normal ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/unions-matter/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/unions-matter/ Thu, 24 Feb 2011 20:06:28 GMT Years ago, in my first reporting job, I covered coal and steel out of Pittsburgh. I spent time in the mills and coalfields. I saw firsthand why labor unions exist. Without them, workers would have had no protection against unjust employers. Not ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/bold-vs-fearful/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/bold-vs-fearful/ Tue, 22 Feb 2011 22:52:07 GMT I know communities whose leaders are bold, and others whose leaders are apprehensive, timid, even paralyzed by fear of failure and change. Both will fail, both will make mistakes, both will try and fall short, both will make foolish decisions. ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/broader-meaning-of-community/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/broader-meaning-of-community/ Mon, 21 Feb 2011 22:28:24 GMT As we move forward in the Internet age and learn to use the tools at our disposal, I think we are coming to a richer meaning of "incarnate" and what it means to be a faith "community." One meaning, of course, is the in-the-flesh reality of two ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/surprise-discovering-gospel-music/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/surprise-discovering-gospel-music/ Wed, 16 Feb 2011 22:46:16 GMT I travel to Indianapolis tomorrow to visit my 94-year-old father and get caught up on his declining condition. He has the cribbage board ready to go and, he assures me, the deck "stacked." Thanks to mobile technology, I won't miss a beat in my ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/the-joy-of-having-a-future/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/the-joy-of-having-a-future/ Tue, 15 Feb 2011 22:49:32 GMT A new joy in my life is getting to know the interim dean and the vice president of Seabury-Western Theological Seminary, who are working hard to bring new life to a longtime institution. I will be speaking there in May. Decades ago, when ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/weekly-miracle-unfolds/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/weekly-miracle-unfolds/ Mon, 14 Feb 2011 18:31:45 GMT Last evening, I settled into my usual spot running the laptop projector at Lifeline, the recovery ministry that I coordinate. I had done my main work earlier in the week. Now I watched the weekly miracle unfold. Songs turned out to be just ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/learning-from-egypt/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/learning-from-egypt/ Fri, 11 Feb 2011 21:06:42 GMT My only connection to Egypt prior to recent events was my niece, who has spent several years there since graduating from college. She posts the most interesting photos of a lovely land and a diverse and open-minded populace. Recent protests in ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/responding-to-deprivation/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/responding-to-deprivation/ Tue, 08 Feb 2011 23:07:31 GMT This morning's New York Times had an important column by Bob Herbert on the worsening inequality in America and the deprivation touching a majority of Americans. Here's a link: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/02/08/opinion/08he... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/wonderful-weekend-in-houston/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/wonderful-weekend-in-houston/ Mon, 07 Feb 2011 22:28:24 GMT I had a wonderful weekend in Houston. I thoroughly enjoyed meeting the rector and vestry of St. Stephen's Episcopal Church. They are lively, eager to embrace risk, change and growth, and able to laugh. They clearly treasure each other and want ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/people-are-okay/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/people-are-okay/ Wed, 02 Feb 2011 22:58:05 GMT During this morning's walk to work – over treacherous ice on sidewalks, deep pools of slush at intersections, and general discomfort from freezing rain – I noticed that people were being unusually kind. Strangers were lifting baby ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/seeing-it-all-at-a-walking-pace/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/seeing-it-all-at-a-walking-pace/ Tue, 01 Feb 2011 23:22:32 GMT In my new 1.5-mile walk between home and office – fifteen blocks, five avenues, from Fifth Avenue history to Broadway glitz to West Side grittiness coexisting with charm – I see it all. I see people of every description, from the ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/moving-boxes-and-gods-kindness/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/moving-boxes-and-gods-kindness/ Mon, 31 Jan 2011 21:55:32 GMT Last weekend I had little on my mind other than moving to our new apartment. Then I got to church and heard a powerful sermon about dreaming big. Sounded right to me. My dreams get bigger every day. Went back later for Lifeline, the recovery ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/life-can-be-difficult/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/life-can-be-difficult/ Wed, 26 Jan 2011 21:39:40 GMT I sat in the members' room at my college club, hoping for some quiet time to think but being treated instead to an intense discussion about a woman's job loss and failed marriage. A man – mentor? coach? friend? – was trying to help ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/playing-fields/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/playing-fields/ Tue, 25 Jan 2011 23:25:33 GMT I figured out why the Jets played so poorly in the first half of Sunday's playoff game with Pittsburgh. Or my wife did. She reminded me I hadn't put on my Jets cap. I always wear it when I watch Jets games, and this time I simply forgot until ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/why-werent-the-jets-prepared/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/why-werent-the-jets-prepared/ Mon, 24 Jan 2011 22:35:18 GMT From my 100% biased perspective as a New York Jets fan, the first half of yesterday's conference championship reminded me of the few times I stood up in the pulpit unprepared, hoping I could wing it, only to discover that the Muse didn't ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/what-does-success-mean/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/what-does-success-mean/ Fri, 21 Jan 2011 20:44:57 GMT What does “success” look like? It could be a job paying $100,000 a year, or a job that pays half that but leaves you feeling you made a difference. Success could be singing in an elite choir of 80 voices or a ragtag choir of 16 ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/speaking-candidly/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/speaking-candidly/ Wed, 19 Jan 2011 23:15:51 GMT I did a text-only web conference today for the Episcopal Church Foundation, discussing my article "The End to Business as Usual," and my suggestions for six changes in how vestries -- and other church leadership groups -- operate. You can read ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/how-many-gospels/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/how-many-gospels/ Tue, 18 Jan 2011 21:55:25 GMT Talk about a marooned ship. A car with no gas. A ball with no air. Yesterday, until 10:00pm, Time Warner's usually excellent Internet service was down in Midtown Manhattan. I could check e-mail on my iPhone, but otherwise, was dead in the ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/promo-promo-meat/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/promo-promo-meat/ Thu, 13 Jan 2011 21:08:10 GMT First, an in-house promo: I need questions. Since I began this Morning Walk blog in August, readers have asked 77 questions for the Faith Q & A piece. Now the well is dry. I could make up my own questions, but the ones that come from ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/radio-as-a-metaphor-for-faith/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/radio-as-a-metaphor-for-faith/ Tue, 11 Jan 2011 22:14:25 GMT Have you discovered Internet radio yet? It's wonderful. I use both Pandora (http://www.pandora.com/) and Slacker (http://www.slacker.com/) On those services, you choose the type of music you want. In Pandora you can click “thumbs ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/politics-of-vitriol/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/politics-of-vitriol/ Mon, 10 Jan 2011 22:41:08 GMT I am not surprised by the politics of vitriol. Shouts, slurs, defamation, outlandish accusations, polarizing assertions, character assassination – they have been part of the American political landscape from the beginning. Even the great ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/plain-talk/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/plain-talk/ Tue, 04 Jan 2011 23:24:52 GMT My article "The End to Business as Usual" appeared on the Episcopal Church Foundation web site today. (http://www.ecfvp.org/vestrypapers/healthy-practices/the-end-to-business-as-usual/) I decided it was time for plain talk about congregational ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/id-like-that-hour-back/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/id-like-that-hour-back/ Mon, 03 Jan 2011 23:06:00 GMT I gave an hour of my life to Dell customer service today. I'd like that hour back. I was browsing for a new laptop computer for my office. Up popped a window asking if I wanted to chat with an agent. I found myself being passed from Gie to ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/new-year-new-journal/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/new-year-new-journal/ Sat, 01 Jan 2011 18:52:03 GMT I had a few pages left in the Moleskine journal I have been using since January 2009. But I decided: new year, new journal. This time it's a spiral-bound English product called Cachet, from Daler Rowney. I suspect most of us are high-tech most ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/toe-tapping-music/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/toe-tapping-music/ Tue, 28 Dec 2010 22:43:05 GMT After the Jazz & Gospel service on Christmas Eve, my two sons (ages 31 and 19) both said, “Best church music we've ever heard.” Even allowing for hyperbole, I heard their reaction as endorsement of embracing other idioms in ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/hopeful-tone-for-christmas/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/hopeful-tone-for-christmas/ Mon, 27 Dec 2010 21:44:48 GMT Maybe blizzards aren't as dramatic in Manhattan as they are in auto-centered areas where 20 inches of snow in 24 hours stops everything. Here I just changed to jeans and boots and allowed more time for slow subway and slushy s... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/finally-back-on-schedule/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/finally-back-on-schedule/ Tue, 21 Dec 2010 21:26:45 GMT I'm finally back on track in newsletter output. A difficult trip to deal with family health issues, as well as my own cold, put me off-kilter. But I just sent a “Professional Edition” on seeing “touches,” as opposed ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/christmas-rhythms/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/christmas-rhythms/ Fri, 17 Dec 2010 22:26:54 GMT Familiar Christmas rhythms continued last evening, as youngest son came home from college and our home suddenly filled with his energy. I remembered his brothers' whirlwind homecomings, and my own, years ago, when I sensed the entire city of ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/getting-back-on-the-grid/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/getting-back-on-the-grid/ Thu, 16 Dec 2010 23:35:22 GMT A family medical issue in my hometown got me somewhat off the grid this week. It's strange how wearying and consuming a medical emergency can be. I'm just now catching up: sending "Professional Edition" two days late, other newsletters to come; ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/virtual-community-is-real/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/virtual-community-is-real/ Wed, 08 Dec 2010 22:43:28 GMT Some people dismiss “virtual community” as “non-community.” Connecting by text messages, as opposed to hugs, can't possibly mean anything, they say. I wouldn't argue against hugs, of course, but consider this: In my ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/fight-for-what-you-believe-in/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/fight-for-what-you-believe-in/ Tue, 07 Dec 2010 22:50:42 GMT I feel for President Obama. I've been there – on a much smaller scale, of course – and tried to negotiate with antagonists. If I gave on this point, surely that would satisfy them, and we could reach a new equilibrium. If I let ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/open-minds/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/open-minds/ Mon, 06 Dec 2010 23:13:25 GMT I am fascinated with how open-minded mainline Christians seem to have become – at least in the sample I see. I was in the trenches when changes like ordaining women, affirming gays, embracing racial diversity, moving altars, changing ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/touched-nerve-on-virtual-church/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/touched-nerve-on-virtual-church/ Fri, 03 Dec 2010 16:55:38 GMT Rule No. 1 in blogging is, "Be brief." Normally I try to do that. My part of today's blog is brief. But the comments from readers posted below run long.  I wrote about the concept of "virtual church." I left it vague as to whether I was ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/virtual-church/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/virtual-church/ Wed, 01 Dec 2010 22:47:42 GMT A reader asked me an interesting question: was I intending to operate a “virtual church” ? No, I told him, that isn't my intent. “I just publish on the web and try to help congregations by encouraging them to use best ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/i-can-sense-atrend/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/i-can-sense-atrend/ Mon, 29 Nov 2010 20:11:59 GMT Okay, I can sense a trend. First came articles about closing churches in New York and Massachusetts. Then came articles about surging online sales, amid weakness in retail sales at bricks-and-mortar stores. You see the importance of online ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/thanksgiving-2010/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/thanksgiving-2010/ Fri, 26 Nov 2010 12:28:49 GMT Thanksgiving 2010 saw several “firsts.” First Thanksgiving as hosts for our oldest son and his wife. First Thanksgiving in their country house. His first time carving the turkey. Our youngest son's first Thanksgiving home from ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/the-year-of-impromptu-hallelujah/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/the-year-of-impromptu-hallelujah/ Tue, 23 Nov 2010 21:24:12 GMT Maybe this will be the year Handel's “Hallelujah!” just blossoms everywhere. We need it, and here it is. First it was an opera company breaking into song at Macy's in Philadelphia. Then, just now, I watched a You Tube video of ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/simple-message-about-season-ahead/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/simple-message-about-season-ahead/ Mon, 22 Nov 2010 22:51:43 GMT I sat for a long time wondering if I could write the newspaper column that I felt called to write. I am as much in need of seasonal cheer as anyone. But I decided to proceed with a simple message: this Christmas will be tough year for many ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/jettison-more-stuff/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/jettison-more-stuff/ Sat, 20 Nov 2010 17:05:04 GMT Downsizing apartments, our current task now that youngest son has started college, is another opportunity to jettison possessions. We gave away or sold two-thirds of our accumulation when we moved to New York in 2007. Now another quarter or so ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/give-credit-to-my-father/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/give-credit-to-my-father/ Thu, 18 Nov 2010 22:48:59 GMT In a Facebook exchange, a friend thanked me for my two days of jury duty, for my “time and effort as a citizen.” I replied, “I credit the example of my father, who worked every election as a poll worker, even though he was ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/jury-duty-a-lesson-in-civics/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/jury-duty-a-lesson-in-civics/ Wed, 17 Nov 2010 23:19:41 GMT Day One of jury duty was a fascinating exercise in civics. Amazing diversity in our pool – a dozen nationalities of origin -- everyone treated with respect, many excused for not thinking they could be fair, constant reminders that being ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/depth-in-the-unrehearsed/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/depth-in-the-unrehearsed/ Tue, 16 Nov 2010 23:36:18 GMT I worked extra-hard for today's talk to Religious Communicators of New York. Great slides, rich material – and yet it was my impromptu answers to their questions that probably gave them the most. Curious. And yet not curious. I think my ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/why-he-came-at-all/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/why-he-came-at-all/ Mon, 15 Nov 2010 21:28:27 GMT A man came late to our Sunday evening Lifeline recovery ministry – so late that he missed the singing, talk, and guidance on prayer and meditation. But he did get there in time for fellowship. As he explained his late arrival – ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/seattle-church-sells-building/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/seattle-church-sells-building/ Wed, 10 Nov 2010 22:23:38 GMT A pastor in Seattle picked right up on yesterday's message about our “Changing Christian Enterprise” and the need to do church in new ways, among them “moving beyond buiuldings.” She wrote about a major decision and its ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/changing-christian-enterprise/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/changing-christian-enterprise/ Tue, 09 Nov 2010 22:22:24 GMT I'm exploring the theme of “Changing Christian Enterprise” for my convention address this Friday for the Episcopal Diocese of Southern Ohio. As I often do, I am using my daily On a Journey meditations this week to think through ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/joy-of-nyc-diversity/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/joy-of-nyc-diversity/ Mon, 08 Nov 2010 20:56:08 GMT Sunday was a great day to live in New York City. My wife and I spent a sunny hour watching the New York City Marathon as the leaders blew through Mile 22 at speeds I found amazing. Later, both professional football teams won and now lead their ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/singing-at-macys/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/singing-at-macys/ Wed, 03 Nov 2010 15:49:49 GMT I tried to imagine being on the cavernous main floor of Macy's in Philadelphia last Saturday when the enormous Wanamaker organ began playing the familiar opening chords and suddenly 650 opera singers launched into Handel's &ldq... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/beyond-partisanship/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/beyond-partisanship/ Tue, 02 Nov 2010 22:25:21 GMT A friend told me about an election party she attends every two years in New Jersey. Attendees include Democrats, Republicans, Independents, Libertarians, Tea Partiers and at least a few undocumented immigrants.  Partisan feelings will be ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/important-election-day/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/important-election-day/ Mon, 01 Nov 2010 21:18:36 GMT On the eve of an important Election Day, I am saddened by new depths of political incivility and corruption – but proud to be a citizen of a nation where nearly all can vote freely. Yes, much is amiss in our land. Too much stoking of ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/sing-out-the-love/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/sing-out-the-love/ Fri, 29 Oct 2010 12:10:26 GMT After working with us on singing vowels and letting language speak, our Gospel Choir director took it a step farther. When you hear the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir sing this song, he said, “you can tell that they love Jesus. They just love ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/quebec-day-2-hopeful-action/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/quebec-day-2-hopeful-action/ Tue, 26 Oct 2010 23:13:26 GMT Yesterday's hopeful tone stayed alive another day and now took root in specific action ideas. Quebec Synod delegates moved toward even greater levels of cooperation. Nothing changes quickly, and negative energy back home can undo even the best ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/quebec-day-1--hopeful-spirit/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/quebec-day-1--hopeful-spirit/ Mon, 25 Oct 2010 18:12:30 GMT SHERBROOKE, QUEBEC – I see a hopeful spirit emerging in a diocese that has faced dwindling numbers, evaporating funds, and the need to sell buildings. Their new bishop's focus on mission and on being people of faith, as opposed to ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/on-to-quebec/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/on-to-quebec/ Fri, 22 Oct 2010 21:18:19 GMT I leave tomorrow for a five-day visit to Quebec to work with a brave bunch of Anglicans who are seeking clarity about their future.  I am excited about the trip. Seeing Quebec City for the first time, meeting the diocese's bishop and ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/my-online-comm-toolkit/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/my-online-comm-toolkit/ Wed, 20 Oct 2010 15:38:44 GMT As powerful and interesting tools proliferate for online work, I must decide which tools I want to use and, therefore, what work I want to do.  In my toolkit for online communications, for example, I have at least four tools: e-mail, blog, ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/one-glimpse-at-a-time/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/one-glimpse-at-a-time/ Tue, 19 Oct 2010 22:27:45 GMT Writing daily “On a Journey” meditations has taught me an important lesson: I don't have to say it all at one time. The same is true of blogging, newsletters and preaching. Messages develop over time. If you say a truthful word ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/onward-upward/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/onward-upward/ Mon, 18 Oct 2010 21:00:20 GMT I didn't have a horse in the Ohio State vs. Wisconsin football game taking place last Saturday (the Badgers won 31-18), but I had a big stake in the 135 people who gathered in Ohio for a best practices workshop for church leaders.  I want ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/your-church-can-grow/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/your-church-can-grow/ Thu, 14 Oct 2010 21:40:39 GMT My opening slide for a Best Practices workshop in Southern Ohio says it boldly: “Yes, your congregation can grow.” I believe that. I have seen it happen. I have led congregations to growth. I am determined to do what I can to help ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/imagine-christians-having-fun/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/imagine-christians-having-fun/ Wed, 13 Oct 2010 21:42:36 GMT Imagine, Christians having fun! That’s what went through my mind as I watched a video sent by HubSpot, whose blogs I enjoy. As a thank you to customers, this software firm made a simple “one take” video of a line dance using ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/new-home-page/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/new-home-page/ Tue, 12 Oct 2010 21:27:18 GMT Hey, web folk, check out the new Morning Walk Media home page. www.morningwalkmedia.com. Launched today.  As I wrote in Professional Edition, I decided to follow my own consulting advice: Functional, not pretty Clarity about identity, ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/gift-of-attention/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/gift-of-attention/ Mon, 11 Oct 2010 21:05:39 GMT On Saturday, at a church banquet, I talked with an older gentleman named Howard, briefly of New York City, but mainly from Kensington, Ohio.  His town is dying, he said, along with other one-time agricultural and industrial towns of ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/life-will-prevail/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/life-will-prevail/ Sat, 09 Oct 2010 11:51:13 GMT At 9:15pm, our apartment door opened, and there was our 19-year-old son, home from college for the weekend.  On his own, he had arranged a ride from Binghamton to the Metro North station at Beacon,  taken the Hudson Line to 125th ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/one-image-not-enough/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/one-image-not-enough/ Thu, 07 Oct 2010 14:51:34 GMT By Tom Ehrich I am freshening my web site’s home page. It’s a fascinating exercise: trying to select just the right images and texts to convey what my ministry is about.  I mulled a scene of New York City at night. Near and ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/a-spirit-of-onward/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/a-spirit-of-onward/ Wed, 06 Oct 2010 22:01:26 GMT Like you, I only see a small sliver of God’s creation., But the sliver I see is shouting some exciting news for faith communities.  People seem hungry to know God. They seem eager to do the new and fresh work that lies ahead. They ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/learning-about-lead-generation/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/learning-about-lead-generation/ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 19:47:17 GMT Until a few years ago, I had never heard the term “lead generation.” But then my two older sons got into the field, and I paid attention to what they were saying.  Although they are still the experts, I have learned enough to ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/full-circle/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/full-circle/ Mon, 04 Oct 2010 19:58:26 GMT A friend and his partner went sky-diving last weekend. It was her first time -- and, she says, probably her last. My friend sent two photographs of her in open air, tethered to an instructor, of course. I used one of the photos to create a ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/end-of-the-week/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/end-of-the-week/ Fri, 01 Oct 2010 18:55:20 GMT Two end-of-the week items: Church Choir Stories Yesterday, after sharing a brief reflection on church choirs, I invited readers to send me their church choir stories. Several did. You can read them here: Readers' Church Choir Stories. Notice ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/readers-church-choir-stories/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/readers-church-choir-stories/ Fri, 01 Oct 2010 15:46:34 GMT In my 9/30/10 MorningWalk blog, I shared a church choir story and asked readers to share their choir stories. Here are a few, some positive, some not so positive, as they sent them to me. Tom   From a reader: The church choir has been ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/choir-rehearsal----who-knew/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/choir-rehearsal----who-knew/ Thu, 30 Sep 2010 21:29:41 GMT Tonight is choir rehearsal. I am back to where I began in church, except that this is a Gospel Choir that sings bouncy music in various languages and not the somewhat starchy -- but thoroughly enjoyable -- boys choir of my youth.  I still ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/lighting-designer-not-an-acupuncturist/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/lighting-designer-not-an-acupuncturist/ Wed, 29 Sep 2010 21:58:18 GMT My newest neighbor on the 11th floor of a Midtown office building turns out to be a lighting designer, not an acupuncturist, as a broker had led me to believe.  No problem either way. It’s just a good example of reality trumping ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/could-happen/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/could-happen/ Mon, 27 Sep 2010 10:17:33 GMT DENVER -- Actually, not Denver. Rather, Denver International Airport, which is many miles east of Denver in a barren land where someone hoped an airport would cause development. Could happen.  Actually, not a 12:48pm departure. Rather, ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/teenagers-at-work/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/teenagers-at-work/ Sat, 25 Sep 2010 13:10:55 GMT Traveling from New York to New Mexico and a two-hour meeting left me weary, ready for a quiet burger. Instead, I accompanied my hosts at Rio Rancho Presbyterian Church to a youth group’s spaghetti dinner. I’m glad I went.  Not ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/fixtures-faded-or-gone/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/fixtures-faded-or-gone/ Wed, 22 Sep 2010 21:33:49 GMT As far as I can tell, my Facebook friends range in age from 20-something to 80-something.  When I asked them to help me prepare a list of “Fixtures Faded or Gone,” it wasn’t just the senior citizens who remembered ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/moving-forward/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/moving-forward/ Tue, 21 Sep 2010 21:08:06 GMT After reading Seth Godin’s insightful article about the “forever recession” -- “the recession of the industrial age, the receding wave of bounty that workers and businesses got as a result of rising productivity but ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/rich--poor/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/rich--poor/ Mon, 20 Sep 2010 21:23:24 GMT This morning I sat down to write my On a Journey Daily Meditation and “turned the page,” as it were, to this week’s Gospel reading. Could anything be more fitting, more discomfiting, more searing and more necessary than the ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/bad-news-good-news/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/bad-news-good-news/ Thu, 16 Sep 2010 21:18:11 GMT Earlier today, I pored over data from the Presbyterian Church -- data that mirrors comparable reports from other mainline denominations -- and I wrote a Church Wellness Report on “Bad News, Good News.” (Write me for a copy.) While ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/speak-up/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/speak-up/ Wed, 15 Sep 2010 20:32:40 GMT The problem with democracy, of course, is that other people don’t always agree with me, and yet their votes count as much as mine. Yesterday, in New York, Democrats nominated a disgraced Congressman for another term, and Republicans ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/plunging-into-social-media/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/plunging-into-social-media/ Tue, 14 Sep 2010 19:48:53 GMT In a summer that was too hot and too long, I did one thing right: I made the plunge into “social media.” Vastly expanded my circles on Facebook and Twitter, learned to write 140-character Tweets, started this MorningWalk blog, ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/hope-in-the-news-blizzard/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/hope-in-the-news-blizzard/ Mon, 13 Sep 2010 18:21:55 GMT In last week’s Quran-burning flap, I think we witnessed an important new reality, and I find it hopeful.  Many were angry with “the media” for giving so much attention to the Gainesville pastor. Personally, I don’t ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/bring-on-the-news/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/bring-on-the-news/ Fri, 10 Sep 2010 15:40:42 GMT Critics are piling on the media for giving exposure to the anti-Islamic pastor in Florida.  I have a different view.  The explosion of mass media, social media and blogging have taken us far beyond the orderly confines of morning ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/exciting-time-in-words/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/exciting-time-in-words/ Thu, 09 Sep 2010 20:01:06 GMT Short blogpost today: a thank you for your patience. Blogs are different from other writings. I am still finding my voice. Thanks for hanging in with me. Remember you can Unsubscribe at any time using the Unsubscribe link at the bottom of each ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/ring-of-goodness/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/ring-of-goodness/ Wed, 08 Sep 2010 20:09:18 GMT “I hope you will write something about the Quran burning,” said a friend.  What could I add to the words others are using to condemn a Florida pastor’s plan to burn Muslim holy books on September 11? Their words -- ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/pings-for-god/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/pings-for-god/ Wed, 08 Sep 2010 15:32:22 GMT When I remember to launch TweetDeck and leave it open, something interesting happens. Every minute or so, I hear a “ping,” and a new Facebook entry or Tweet displays in the upper-right corner of my screen.  I can read them ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/beyond-running-on-trust-fumes/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/beyond-running-on-trust-fumes/ Mon, 06 Sep 2010 15:43:05 GMT I’ll admit I was “running on trust-fumes” as start time for Lifeline arrived and we faced technology problems, absent speaker, no food delivery, and empty seats.  But then God smiled, people poured in, we decided not to ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/squeezing-summers-last-drop/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/squeezing-summers-last-drop/ Fri, 03 Sep 2010 17:50:19 GMT Back in the day -- ah, yes -- Labor Day weekend meant a frenzied drive to squeeze every last drop from summer before the swimming pool closed and school reopened. As time rolled on, Labor Day weekend marked a welcome return to college, arrival ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/hurricane-watch/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/hurricane-watch/ Thu, 02 Sep 2010 21:20:58 GMT Hurricane watches were standard fare when we lived in North Carolina. One actually came far enough inland to tear up our property.  This week, even New York City is watching the advance of Hurricane Earl. Our apartment manager sent around ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/doing-faith-with-other-people/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/doing-faith-with-other-people/ Wed, 01 Sep 2010 21:16:55 GMT On the subway this morning, I got so tied up in reading a newspaper article that I missed my transfer at Columbus Circle and ended up two avenues west of my destination.  As you may know, the distance between avenues on the West Side of ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/into-the-marketplace/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/into-the-marketplace/ Tue, 31 Aug 2010 18:51:58 GMT It took a year of looking, but I finally found a Manhattan office that I could afford, had a view, and felt right.  Two weeks ago, I left the office that a Midtown church had graciously made available to me for the past year. Now, instead ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/week-two-of-new-blog/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/week-two-of-new-blog/ Mon, 30 Aug 2010 18:11:49 GMT I launched this blog a week ago. As week two begins, it seems timely to explain the why and what next of this.  I am trying to broaden the reach of my writings. I am trying to make a difference in individual lives and in faith communities. ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/fire-in-the-belly/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/fire-in-the-belly/ Sat, 28 Aug 2010 21:30:10 GMT After years of preaching every Sunday, I serve now mostly by writing and helping churches get healthy. Tomorrow, however, I return to the pulpit, this time at Park Avenue Christian Church, at 85th and Park Avenue, in New York City. If ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/surprise-surprise/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/surprise-surprise/ Fri, 27 Aug 2010 17:39:23 GMT As it turned out, my 19-year-old son and I didn’t listen to Junior Walker & The All-Stars on our drive to Binghamton University for his freshman year. We were too busy talking about school, roommates, Jack Kerouac (his favorite ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/empty-nest/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/empty-nest/ Wed, 25 Aug 2010 20:17:22 GMT For 31 of our 33 years of marriage, my wife and I have had children in our home. Tomorrow, I take youngest son to college, and the watershed known as “empty nest” arrives.  Traumatic? I don’t think so. He’s ready, ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/making-the-world-better/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/making-the-world-better/ Tue, 24 Aug 2010 21:59:29 GMT Another Time Warner technician showed up today. I went out to the main entrance to let him in. After a frustrating day with Time Warner yesterday, I expected little. But he proved me wrong. He was thoroughly professional, did some tests that ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/connected-at-last/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/connected-at-last/ Mon, 23 Aug 2010 19:58:08 GMT I start my week waiting for Time Warner to install Internet access in my new Midtown office. I see how much I depend on the Internet. Without that link, I can write but not send; plan but not execute.  I choose such dependency. It's like ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/happy-to-be-here/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/happy-to-be-here/ Fri, 20 Aug 2010 22:48:01 GMT MorningWalk / August 20, 2010 / by Tom Ehrich Happy to Be Here I just walked past my favorite window ledge: on the corner of 104th and Manhattan Ave.  The resident has woven together plastic action figures, plastic flowers and two flags, ... http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/what-is-morningwalk/ http://www.morningwalkmedia.com/morning-walk-media-blog/what-is-morningwalk/ Thu, 19 Aug 2010 18:06:19 GMT What is this? A new blog called “MorningWalk.” Free to all who wish to read it.  Why am I receiving it? I need to start somewhere. So I am sending this for two weeks to everyone who reads my writings. During that time, I hope ...