The Presbyterian Outlook - 10 tips for crafting inclusive worship

News & Stories Dear Outlook readers,  I woke up this morning to hear of a mass shooting in Maine. I don't know about you, but this news hit me hard — not only because any loss of life is awful, not only because it demonstrates America's enduring gun violence problem but because it is one more example of hatred on a tall, precarious pile.  This week's newsletter touches on the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Israel/Palestine, but it also talks about forgiveness, worship planning, theological education, and preparation for ministry. As I built the newsletter, I was reminded that life goes on, no matter the amount of loss the world is experiencing. We should pray and grieve and respond to violence, but maybe resilience sometimes looks like moving about our days and choosing to continue ordinary tasks with tenderness.  Lord, please be with those injured and grieving in Maine. Be with our siblings in Ukraine, in Israel, in Palestine. Where we are called to act, show us how. Where we are called to listen, teach us how.  In Christ's mercy, Rose Schrott Taylor Outlook digital content editor

The Reformation’s African roots by Elana Keppel Levy Forgiveness: Drawing close to the wound by Katy Shevel 10 tips for crafting inclusive worship experiences by Donald Griggs What’s the matter with theological education? by Barbara Wheeler In case you missed it... Cheers: The vital role of encouragement in our faith life Julie Raffety writes about the value of encouragement in our lives, especially in matters of faith. Stand with Ukraine: Church resources for worship, education and action Presbyterian Mission Agency's "A Sowing of Peace in Ukraine" offers multi-generational resources for churches to deepen their connection with Ukrainians. — Shannon Beck Interreligious respect and care: A Virginia rabbi’s letter to a local Muslim society "This week we welcome you in prayer as we do every week. Now is the time to elevate the universal experience of human grief, and set aside disagreements, no matter how well-reasoned." — Rabbi Michael G. Holzman Testify "John the Baptist probably sounded a bit like Nathan,/ especially when he’s not taking his medication,/ like the other month, when he was so angry/ that we wouldn’t give him any money, so he called/ the cops on us, a church." — Kathryn Lester-Bacon How to invest in young leaders: an assorted and incomplete list If you've ever wondered, “Wow! We actually have a potential future church leader among us! What do we do?” This list is for you, writes Walter Canter. We bear the mark Ben Weakley spent 14 years in the U.S. Army, including deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. He reflects on the cost of killing and the work of healing.