“Every denomination that is struggling with the issues of GLBTQ equality must not shout at each other through the organs of the media…Thoughtful and intentional conversations and investment in each other is what is needed. “ – John VanDerWalker How we should respond to GLBTQ controversies within the church John …

This past spring, the Christian denomination that I belong to approved to offer marriage to same gender couples in states where legal and to offer covenant blessing in states where illegal.

As citizens of the greater Spokane/Coeur d’Alene community we have been visited with senseless violence once again. Delbert “Shorty” Belton of Spokane was beaten to death Wednesday night, Aug. 21,  in the parking lot of the Eagles Lodge as he waited for a friend. Two teenage boys have been arrested and could be charged with is death.

My office is in my home and has tons of theology books on the shelves as well as books for exegetical work. On the walls are various things that represent faith, a communion plate gifted to me by a congregation in a previous assignment.

I am not a gun nut, I am an outdoorsman. I am a Democrat, I am a Christian, I am a believer in the rule of law and I cherish life, not only mine but of all. And I am disgusted.

I have to admit, for most Christians some of the things that my church adheres to and has held tightly to in the past are a little goofy.