William Still was born free in the 19th century. He worked to support the underground railroad and recorded the life stories of slaves. Then he met someone he never expected…
Story Subject: compassion
Holding on to Faith after Katrina
While doing post-Katrina clean-up, I saw a church sign that said “Jesus walked on water.”
Speaking with the Spirit Whatever the Price: Anne Hutchinson
Anne Hutchinson shared the good news of the Gospel in the mid-17th century even though it was different from the dominant understanding. Ultimately, she was banished.
Temple Tax: Context
The Temple tax was voluntary, an expression of faith and belonging – not part of a domination system.
What if They Move Away Without Me?
When I was a baby, I was convinced that my parents were going to leave me behind when we moved away.
Domestic Violence as Idolatry
The ancient gods blamed humanity for their own failings and problems. If humanity didn’t soothe them, they were struck down. Abusers treat their victims the same way.
Tilling the Earth to Feed a Stranger: Walafrid
In the first thousand years of the church, monks sometimes planted gardens to share treats with visitors. Walafrid even wrote poetry about it!
Feeding the Hungry: Basil of Caesarea
In the 360s, Basil of Caesara, a bishop, spent his own money to buy food for the starving poor during a famine.
Tea & Cookies with Protestors: Desmond Tutu
Desmond Tutu was still trying to bring down Apartheid in the mid-eighties. The powers that be hired protestors to try to smear Tutu, but he ended up sharing a tea party with them.
A Martyr to End Slavery: Rev. Elijah Parish Lovejoy
Elijah Parish Lovejoy was a minister and journalist who felt called to fight slavery. He refused to stop speaking out, to stop writing, to give up his cause. He was murdered by a pro-slavery mob.