top of page


A Groundbreaking Gathering: Reflections on the Open & Affirming Coalition’s National Gathering in Cincinnati
This article was original published by the UCC's Open and Affirming Coalition here . Attending the Open & Affirming Coalition’s national...
Christopher Schouten
Oct 9, 20244 min read


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


Finding Faith and Love Through Furry Friends: Reflections from a Sunday School Lesson
This past Sunday, I had the incredible opportunity to lead our Children's message at First Church Phoenix UCC. We embarked on a journey...
Christopher Schouten
Oct 6, 20242 min read


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


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


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


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


Polyamory and Faith: A Journey of Love, Integrity, and Acceptance
When considering the intersection of ethical non-monogamy, polyamory, and faith, many Christians may find themselves grappling with...
Christopher Schouten
Jul 13, 20245 min read


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


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


Children's Ministry: "The Power of Spiritual Community"
Teaching children to appreciate spiritual community through relatable storytelling.
Christopher Schouten
Jul 7, 20242 min read


Children's Ministry: Making Good Decisions
During our month-long sermon series of Mental Health Month in May 2024, our commissioned minister gave a sermon on the power of God to...
Christopher Schouten
Jul 6, 20243 min read


Celebrating Our LGBTQIA+ Elders: Honoring the Past, Embracing the Future
June 30, 2024, was a vibrant and heartwarming day at Solstice Senior Living in Sun City West, where residents and community members...
Christopher Schouten
Jul 4, 20241 min read


Pride Month 2024 Activities at First Church Phoenix United Church of Christ
Introduction Pride Month 2024 at First Church Phoenix United Church of Christ was a vibrant celebration of LGBTQIA+ identity, healing,...
Christopher Schouten
Jul 4, 20247 min read


Reconciling with the Bible: Finding Healing in Sacred Texts
Reconciling with the Bible: Finding Healing in Sacred Texts The Bible, a cornerstone of Christian faith, has been a guiding light for...
Christopher Schouten
Jun 25, 20244 min read


Sermon: Touching the Untouchable in Ourselves & Others: The Healing Power of Compassion
September 2, 2023 - Undelivered Sermon From the Gospel of Mark 1:40-42: A man with leprosy came to him and begged him on his knees, “If...
Christopher Schouten
Jun 21, 20246 min read


Reflection on a Lifetime of Activism: From Saving a Lawn to Championing Human Rights
From my earliest memories, the instinct to protect and advocate for what I believed was right has driven my actions. It all began when I...
Christopher Schouten
Jun 20, 20243 min read


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


Work to Decenter Whiteness in the Southwest Conference
A 9-Step Path to Racial Justice in the Southwest Conference of the United Church of Christ
Christopher Schouten
Jun 18, 20247 min read


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
bottom of page