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The Double-Edged Sword of Shame: Finding Grace and Authenticity on the Path of Faith
As a future pastor in the United Church of Christ, a tradition rooted in extravagant welcome and the belief that "God is Still Speaking,"...
Christopher Schouten
3 days ago6 min read
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Keeping the Soul While Embracing the Tools: AI and Ministry in the UCC
In every generation, the Church has wrestled with new technologies: the printing press, the radio, the internet, Zoom... Each time, we’ve...
Christopher Schouten
3 days ago4 min read
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MP10606:The Art of Worship - Discussion Postings
Pathways Theological Education Learning Objectives To identify key elements of worship and its various expressions within the Christian...
Christopher Schouten
Apr 1520 min read
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Unraveling the Mask: Finding Freedom and God's Love Through the Enneagram
There are moments in life, often quiet ones, where a light flicks on. Suddenly, patterns you’ve lived with for decades snap into focus....
Christopher Schouten
Apr 144 min read
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Angels, Mystery, and the Messengers of God
I didn’t grow up thinking much about angels. At least not seriously. In the churches I knew as a child, angels were either characters in...
Christopher Schouten
Apr 134 min read
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What I Believe About the Afterlife - And Why It Matters Now
As a progressive Christian, I’m often asked what I believe happens after we die. My answer is simple - but not simplistic. I don’t know...
Christopher Schouten
Apr 133 min read
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Understanding the Bible as a Progressive Christian - Course Overview & Discussion Assignments
Here is a complete list of the resources used in this class and my responses to the weekly discussion questions. This shows my engagement...
Christopher Schouten
Apr 1328 min read
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My Theology of Worship
MP10606 : The Art of Worship – Final Outcome Project April 11, 2025  Table of Contents Introduction Initiation of Worship The Structure...
Christopher Schouten
Apr 1110 min read
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Making Sense of Theology – Course Overview & Discussion Assignments
This document represents the weekly discussion submissions for my class. Each week, students engaged in thoughtful reflections and...
Christopher Schouten
Feb 2229 min read
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Expanding the Boundaries of Theology: Integrating the Work of Healthy Self-Love in Christian Communities
Pathways Theological Education Making Sense of Theology, Febuary 2025 Final Reflection Paper - Grade = A This paper embraces the...
Christopher Schouten
Feb 199 min read
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A Journey of Love: Re-Examining Our Theology Around Transgender Inclusion
Pathways Theological Education Making Sense of Theology, January 2025 Mid-Term Reflection Paper - Grade = A Those of us who identify as...
Christopher Schouten
Feb 199 min read
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Queer Theology: A Journey Toward Deeper Spiritual Belonging
In today’s rapidly changing world, theology is evolving, growing more inclusive and accessible for everyone. One of the most significant...
Christopher Schouten
Oct 7, 20244 min read
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Children's Message: Finding the Right Path with God's Help (based on Proverbs 2:2-6 and 3:5-6)
Good morning, kids!  How’s everyone today? I’m so glad to see all of your smiling faces. Today, I want to talk to you about something...
Christopher Schouten
Aug 10, 20243 min read
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The Heart of Christ: Exploring the Connection Between Jesus and the Heart Chakra in Hinduism
Introduction In both Christianity and Hinduism, the heart holds profound spiritual significance. In Hindu tradition, the heart chakra, or...
Christopher Schouten
Jul 12, 20245 min read
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Why I Want to Be Ordained
Understanding My Calling I believe that God has called me to serve the church in a special way that goes beyond the important work that...
Christopher Schouten
Jul 11, 20246 min read
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The Church of Compassion: Recognizing Our Shared Burdens
You never know what another human being is experiencing. By being vulnerable to others, we give them permission to be their whole selves.
Christopher Schouten
Jun 18, 20242 min read
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A Day of Blessing With Unhoused Seniors at the Justa Center
When we bless others sometimes we are blessed manyfold in return. We must always stay open to connection with our fellow humans.
Christopher Schouten
Jun 18, 20243 min read
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Nurturing Our Faith Beyond Sunday: Growing Closer to God in Daily Life
How we can cultivate a deeper connection with the Divine in our everyday routines.
Christopher Schouten
Jun 17, 20243 min read
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Sermon: But the Greatest of These is Love
How loving God, oneself, and one's neighbor equally is essential for spiritual growth and creating a better world. July 2, 2023...
Christopher Schouten
Jun 17, 20248 min read
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The Sacred Journey from Shame to Pride
LGBTQIA+ people often develop a deep sense of shame in their youth. Healing from this shame requires a lifetime of work and the love of God.
Christopher Schouten
Jun 17, 202412 min read
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