By Pastor Jamie McClanahan11/12/2025 As I reflect on the outcome of the Virginia elections and their impact on Virginians—particularly Christians—I feel a sobering sadness. The cultural landscape seems to shift more quickly than many of us can process. It brings to mind the haunting introduction from The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the … Continue reading A Response to the Virginia Elections: A Pastoral Reflection on Troubling Days and the Hope of the Gospel
faith
Turning Point (Part 1)
I’ve been thinking a lot about these two words and what they mean beyond their recent cultural definitions. As a result of current events, many find themselves at a crossroads in their faith. Over the next few days, I will blog about the questions that arise from these happenings. I’m not interested in leaning into the … Continue reading Turning Point (Part 1)
Triage and Cooperation in the Local Church (Part II)
Felix Manz--Anabaptist Martyr Triage is a necessity in the medical world and is often a matter of life and death. In the world of theology it can also mean spiritual or physical life and death. In the last post on this topic, we considered the importance of fleshing out the brilliant statement by Rupert Meldinius … Continue reading Triage and Cooperation in the Local Church (Part II)
The Before, During, and After of Listening Well to a Sermon
If you listen to sermons for 40 years, you will have heard about 1600 Bible messages. I assume you will attend an average of 40 Sunday mornings a year and not 52, as few have perfect attendance. However, even if you attend 52 worship services yearly, you will have sat through 2,080 sermons in 40 … Continue reading The Before, During, and After of Listening Well to a Sermon
Valley Shepherds 