Theology involves choosing or being captured by a story. These stories become expressed in life through values and attitudes. Theology should be a living experience. Instead of studying and memorizing creeds to truly know God, you must be in a relationship with the Creator. A lived theology means that the experience is more of a process rather than an academic exercise. Theology is living when reflection and action go hand and hand. A pastor can help his or her congregation think about God and what they believe but there should also be an encouragement from the pulpit for the congregation to live out what they believe. Practicing our theology may mean attending a demonstration, volunteering at a shelter, or giving to a charity. True theology happens when one uses their head and heart to reflect on the nature of God and then uses their hands and feet to live out those beliefs.
Participating in the theological praxis means bringing all the readings, and learning that a pastor has done throughout the week to the pulpit to present to the congregation. I thoroughly enjoy reading and preparing for sermons by reading the works of the great theologians of the past and present. Gaining theological wisdom from a mixture of different perspectives is important to me. I enjoy reading liberation theology books, Jewish theology, and other voices from different cultures that help to bring new insights into my theological journey. Recently, I have discovered the joys of reading mystical theology. These works have helped me to slow down and focus on contemplating God.
As a pastor, I will seek to help create space for people in the congregation to have a dialogue with one another around theological differences. My goal in these discussions is to help people to see each other’s point of view and to still be able to build community and find common ground. God is big enough to handle our questions and doubts. As a pastor, I desire to create a safe space where all can bring their questions and doubts.
My theology is Christ-centered and is focused on the unending grace that the Lord provides. I believe that all people are created in the image of God and are worthy of love and acceptance. God came to earth not to condemn but the Creator came to offer complete salvation and hope to all. The church is to be the place that displays total love and acceptance. Far too often people don’t experience that love and acceptance in the church. It is my hope and desire to reach out to those who have ever felt hurt by the church. I believe that the church should be a safe place where all can come to find refuge and peace. God does not condemn or hold a grudge. People are hurting in our world and need the hope and encouragement that is found in the love of God. My theology informs me that the church is a place of inclusion. For the UCC to be united it not only means to worship Jesus but it also means that as a denomination we must follow his example of radical welcome and hospitality. God’s vision for the future of the church is a diverse group of people coming together as one.