Monthly Archives: December 2012

Going Over the Religion Cliff

Posted on December 29, 2012 by smaxreisert

Last Sunday’s Sunday New York Times Book Review offered a cover story entitled, “Has Fiction Lost Its Faith?” (12/23/12)  In that article Paul Elie summed up his sense of the place of Christianity in contemporary fiction this way:  ““This, in … Continue reading →

Posted in Holy-Days | Leave a comment

God’s Birth Plan: What to Expect When You’re Expecting

Posted on December 22, 2012 by smaxreisert

I was just one week short of the due date for my second child when I woke up on a lovely morning in spring and felt a few mild cramps.  I might not have taken much notice, but then I … Continue reading →

Posted in Holy-Days | 1 Comment

Thoughts and Prayers

Posted on December 15, 2012 by smaxreisert

My thoughts and prayers are with the people of Newtown, Conn.– with the families, the children, the responders, the teachers and administrators, community leaders,  and everyone who is helping that community.

Posted in Misc | Leave a comment

The Church in Decline: Weddings

Posted on December 15, 2012 by smaxreisert

In the gay marriage debates and voting seasons that have happened in Maine (we’ve voted on this issue twice in recent years), and elsewhere, I’ve noticed that those who are against gay marriage like to scare people—religious people—by telling them … Continue reading →

Posted in LBGTQ, Misc | 1 Comment

What If We Build It and They Still Don’t Come?

Posted on December 6, 2012 by smaxreisert

In Central Maine, churches face a very difficult reality.  A Central Maine mainline church may have great programming, a wonderful minister, meaningful worship, an enthusiastic Christian Education program, a heavenly choir, and a friendly, welcoming and open congregation.  And, yet, … Continue reading →

Posted in Maine Cautionary Tales | 1 Comment

Christmas Without Christians

Posted on December 2, 2012 by smaxreisert

I’m not much of a fan of the “War on Christmas.”  In fact, I prefer “Happy Holidays” to “Merry Christmas” as I offer greetings around town, in recognition that there are many religious holidays that take place during this time … Continue reading →

Posted in Holy-Days | 1 Comment