I might have to take today as a reading/mindless chores day because my brain is DEAD and I cannot think enough to write. How very bothersome and uncooperative this all is.

Were I free and attending, I would GLADLY be your conference buddy.

I swear, I get more reading and planning done on planes than just about anywhere else. Don't know what it is about travel, but it freaking works.

Addendum: a HUGE shoutout to my amazing wife, who ran out the door to go for another walk with our parishioner. She's the best and deserves much applause.

Now they are providing meals to those affected by the government shutdown.

I love seeing Christian people act in Christian ways: feeding the hungry and caring for those in need (even if it means personal sacrifice). God help us to be more like this.

Thank you, God, for the tremendous sacrifices made by those who have gone before us.
Bless the memories of your saints, God.
May we learn how to walk wisely from their examples of faith, dedication, worship, and love.

We thank you, God, for hardworking saints;
Whether hard-hatted or steel-booted,
Head ragged or aproned,
Blue-collared or three-piece-suited
They left their mark on the earth for you, for us, for our children to come.

We give you thanks, O God, for hands lifted in praise:
Manicured hands and hands stained with grease or soil,
Strong hands and those gnarled with age
Holy hands used as wave offerings across the land.

A dear friend reached out to remind me All Saints Day was also begun by "Christianizing" the Celtic pagan holiday Samhain. Her words: "In good church fashion we saw what the people were already doing and made a church holiday around it. I see it about inclusivity, not washing down of our faith."

Besides, satanic panic is SO last century. Let's move past fear-mongering by enjoying well-intended fun and doing a bit of research.