Weekly Outlook - Fertility rights and mercy

Dear Outlook readers,  One of the delights of my job is that I get to read unexpected submissions. Most of our magazine and online content is intentionally recruited around pre-planned editorial topics. However, we also have an open submissions policy — we'll read what you send us.  I don't know if it is the result of long winter nights, but we've been receiving more submissions than usual lately, and many of them have been incredibly timely and thoughtful. I published two of these articles this morning: "Passing in the church" by Christopher Tweel and "When it comes to fertility and reproductive rights, consider mercy" by Elizabeth N.H. Link. Tweel's essay shares the racism and hope he experiences as a Lebanese American pastor, and Link's article reflects on her experience going through IVF in light of the Alabama Supreme Court's ruling on "extrauterine children." Both essays are thoughtful, personal and intentional. I hope you take the time to read them.  I am one of three full-time staff at the Outlook, all of whom are writers in our own right. We know the joy of getting published and the hurt of rejection. We also understand how difficult it can be to get a foot in the door. So we spend time working with new writers, explaining the publishing and editing process. We understand the weight of our platform and the importance of diverse voices. All that to say, we'd love to read your writing, too.  In Christ, Rose Schrott Taylor Outlook digital content editor

The quest for a new confession by Erin Dunigan AI is present in ministry. Now what? by Kate Ott Presbyterian delegation connects with those suffering in Israel/Palestine by Greg Allen-Pickett When it comes to fertility and reproductive rights, consider mercy by Elizabeth N.H. Link In case you missed it... Passing in the church Lebanese American Pastor Christopher Tweel shares the racism and hope he finds in the church. PC(USA)’s Unification Commission outlines its work to date in its report to the 226th General Assembly Commission also seeks to put a false rumor to rest. — Mike Ferguson Acting Stated Clerk looks ahead to her remaining time in office Bronwen Boswell says unification work and General Assembly are among the top items on her agenda. — Randy Hobson   AI: Reflection, evolution, transformation In my experience, teaching others is one of the best ways to learn, writes Teri McDowell Ott. With that in mind, what can we learn as we teach AI? A quartet of PC(USA) scholars and preachers offers up a how-to on preaching hope this Easter Elizabeth Caldwell, Cynthia Campbell, Thomas Long and Brian K. Blount engage in a lively and helpful discussion. — Mike Ferguson Field Notes for the Wilderness: Practices for an Evolving Faith "In 'Field Notes for the Wilderness,' Bessey writes to fellow 'wanderers' who seek a way to follow Jesus that honors their doubts and questions." — Amy Pagliarella