The week that changes everything is upon us.  While every week is a holy one, this coming week is the epic reliving of everything we know to be true of life.  Celebration, Betrayal, Death, Descent, New Life.  We are entering something timeless. 
 
I wish you a Blessed, and Beautiful Holy Week.  
 
Bishop James Hazelwood

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Book News
 
Thank you to the over 200 people who provided submissions for the book, Everyday Spirituality. I could not include everyone's stories, vignettes, and opinions, but I have used several. I’ve finished the second draft, and it’s now in the hands of the editor.  If you are interested in reading a chapter and offering ideas, suggestions, etc. send me an email, and I'll get you a section later next week.
 
Visits
 
I've enjoyed several church visits of late.  These always give me hope as I witness congregations engaging in significant ways of being Jesus in their communities.  In March I worshipped with Immanuel Lutheran Episcopal in Augusta, Maine, Holy Cross in Kennebunk, Maine and St. Matthew Lutheran in Avon, CT.  I recorded my sermon at St. Matthew “400 Years of Slavery”. You can listen to it if you wish here.
 
On April 28, I will be at First Lutheran in Brockton, Mass with Episcopal Bishop Michael Curry, Mass Diocese Bishops Alan Gates and Gayle Harris.  Bishop Curry will be preaching, and I’ll be presiding with the able assistance of Pastor Jeffrey Johnson. 
 
Resource
 
If you are in despair about the state of our country, I commend to you a new book by Arthur Brooks. Love Your Enemies: How Decent People Can Save America from a Culture of Contempt.  Arthur has challenged me on several levels with his writing and speaking. For me, he is an unusual paradox of a conservative thinker who combines a passion for healthy dialogue, along with a different approach for addressing poverty on both a global and national scale.  I don't agree with everything he says, but I'm tired of the echo chamber and looking for a challenge.  There is an excellent series of videos on his website that I think people will find helpful.  Check it out here.  By the way, if anyone knows Arthur, and can connect me, I’d love to have him as a guest on my podcast.