Author Archives: smaxreisert

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About smaxreisert

I'm a United Church of Christ pastor serving the small, faithful Old South Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, in Hallowell, Maine. I was ordained in Massachusetts in 1995, moved to Maine in 1997 and have served the Hallowell church since 2005.

I Am Not on Vacation!

Posted on August 22, 2015 by smaxreisert

I’m on sabbatical this month. Although the pace and nature of my working is a lot different than when I’m not on sabbatical, I’ve had to make something of an effort to make it clear that I’m not on vacation. … Continue reading →

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What Is Worship?

Posted on August 14, 2015 by smaxreisert

“If there’s no music, people won’t come.” That was the declaration. The conversation was about worship and, more precisely, what we are going to do about music next summer. The assessment: no music; no people. At Old South, we are … Continue reading →

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Getting Out of the Bubble

Posted on August 7, 2015 by smaxreisert

In the minor news this week is the continuing drama of Caitlyn Jenner, whose “docu-series” is currently showing on E!. The second episode of the series was shown this past Sunday and featured, among other things, Jenner’s more conservative, Republican … Continue reading →

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When They Don’t Come to Us

Posted on August 1, 2015 by smaxreisert

Old Hallowell Day is a big deal in this little city just south of the state capital. Every year, on the third Saturday of July, Hallowell swells with, it seems, just about everyone who was born here or ever lived … Continue reading →

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Let Me Entertain You?

Posted on July 20, 2015 by smaxreisert

Last month, I attended the bat mitzvah service for the daughter of a close friend. As we were assembling at the synagogue, another good friend came in and sat down with us. I noticed that she was alone, so I … Continue reading →

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You Can’t DIY Everything

Posted on July 9, 2015 by smaxreisert

One of my “younger” parishioners (just a bit older than I am)—I’ll call him Henry— came to chat with me a couple of weeks ago. Part of our conversation included the sharing of information regarding yet another Old South member—“Sally.” … Continue reading →

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Roots in the Rainbow

Posted on June 27, 2015 by smaxreisert

On this day after a very big day, as I reflect on the SCOTUS decision in favor of marriage equality, I can’t help but consider what an amazing change that has taken place in this country in such a relatively … Continue reading →

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Should I Stay Or Should I Go?

Posted on June 19, 2015 by smaxreisert

Darling you got to let me know Should I stay or should I go? If you say that you are mine I’ll be here ’til the end of time -The Clash Last week, I read a blog post called “Letter … Continue reading →

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The Concern on the Other End

Posted on June 12, 2015 by smaxreisert

I ran into an older friend of mine at the gym the other day. I hadn’t seen him in a little while. He recently had some significant health problems, but is now well on his way to recovery. For a … Continue reading →

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Upending the Tyranny of the Popular Girls

Posted on June 4, 2015 by smaxreisert

My daughter is graduating from high school this week. “Tradition” brings us a full four-day palate of activities and festivities. Last night was Class Night, an evening of graduating seniors giving thanks (to teachers, administrators, and parents) as well as … Continue reading →

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