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A Still-Speaking God, A Pluralistic Path: Our UCC Call in Divided Times
We are part of a tradition that proudly proclaims, "God is still speaking." In these times of deep societal division, I believe one of...
Christopher Schouten
May 94 min read
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Hearing Across the Chasm: Progressive Faith, 'Wokeness,' and Building Bridges in a Divided America
We live in fractured times. The political and cultural divides in America feel wider and deeper than many of us can remember. These...
Christopher Schouten
Apr 308 min read
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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
Apr 256 min read
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From Curious to Capable: A UCC Pastor's Guide to Unlocking AI's Ministry Potential
Let's be honest. The phrase "Artificial Intelligence" might conjure images from sci-fi movies or sound like something far removed from...
Christopher Schouten
Apr 255 min read
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Beyond the Ballot: A Christian Call to Understanding in Divided Times
We live in deeply polarized times. If you're reading this, chances are you've felt bewildered, frustrated, or even angered by the...
Christopher Schouten
Apr 197 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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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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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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Defying the Shadow: Finding Grace in the Dark
Sermon given at First Church Phoenix UCC on 2/2/2025. YouTube video below. Today, I invite you to journey with me to the land of Oz—not...
Christopher Schouten
Feb 210 min read
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Sermon: Sacred Journey - CONNECTION - How to Have Grace-Filled Relationships during Election Season
Bridging difficult differences can only be done by understanding the different moral foundations that drive each of us.
Christopher Schouten
Oct 13, 202412 min read
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Whole Lives Matter: Embracing Intersectionality in a Complex World
Whole Lives Matter because people are complex, intersectional, and fearfully and wonderfully made in an infinite diversity and beauty.
Christopher Schouten
Sep 23, 20245 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 Wisdom of "Praise Allah and Tie Your Camel to the Post"
I learned a phrase long ago in my spiritual education from the deep well of Sufi wisdom: "Praise Allah and tie your camel to the post"....
Christopher Schouten
Jul 18, 20245 min read
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Bridging the Gap: Harnessing Corporate Expertise for Ministry Excellence
As I stand on the threshold of a new chapter in my life, transitioning from over three decades in corporate technology marketing to...
Christopher Schouten
Jul 17, 20246 min read
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Children's Ministry: "The Power of Spiritual Community"
Teaching children to appreciate spiritual community through relatable storytelling.
Christopher Schouten
Jul 7, 20242 min read
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A Response to Systemic Racism: our Decentering Whiteness Podcast
In response to the brutal murder of George Floyd, my friend Andréa and I recorded seven conversations about racism. This is what happened.
Christopher Schouten
Jun 18, 20241 min read
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The Heroine's Journey: The Barbie Sermon
We each go on our own Hero's Journey to find our authentic purpose.
Christopher Schouten
Jun 17, 202411 min read
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Embracing the Beauty of Diversity: Becoming a Church of Extravagant Welcome
What we must do to truly provide an extravagant welcome to all in our church.
Christopher Schouten
Jun 17, 20242 min read
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