In the Fields

This week the entire ministry team - Mitch, Caitlyn, Dianna, and Alex - come together to share stories of the youth pilgrimage to Ecuador this summer! They discuss why pilgrimage is a cornerstone of our youth’s faith formation, the ecotheology and creation care the youth explored through the jungle, and how Dianna earned the nickname “Princess.”

Oliver Hartner - environmental activist, writer, and veteran - preaches from his soul, telling personal stories of growing up in the prejudices of the deep South, even in the church, but how that same church and the Eucharist gradually transformed him. He explains his understanding of Jesus's teaching about his body and blood, emphasizing the sacrament's importance in recognizing God's presence in all creation, combating evil, and awakening love within us. Ultimately, Oliver bids us to see God's presence everywhere and rely on the Eucharist as spiritual nourishment in our battles against the evils we face.

Christi Mahon joins our lay preaching series this week. Her sermon braids together stories of her love of bread throughout her life but also its complicated position within diet culture, even though it has been the sustaining lifeforce since the ancient generations. We often substitue a million other things in search of what gives us life, but in Jesus we find all that is essential, first, and sustaining. This sermon will nourish your soul.

Angela Adams, middle school science teacher extraordinaire, kicks off our lay preaching series! Angela preaches on the “Bread of Life” sermon from John’s Gospel, in this season of “Breadtide.” Come for a soulful description of Jesus’ complex but deeply fulfilling love. Stay for Aunt Lakey and Mr. Magoo the feral tomcat.

Caitlyn and Mitch are joined by St. Martin’s Communications Director Jim Morgan, and continue their exploration of loneliness, community, and the importance of imperfection in building meaningful relationships. Their wide-ranging discussion touches on technology, social media culture, and bluegrass music!

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As promised, you can find the podcast we referenced on the “Unlocking Us podcast with Brene Brown.” The episode is “Esther Perel on New AI - Artificial Intimacy” on Apple and Spotify podcasts. It’s a live recording of Brene Brown and therapist Esther Perel. To leave Mitch and Caitlyn a comment on the episode, contact us through the new St. Martin’s app!

A Lenten sermon from Caitlyn about the wrist tattoo she got on a whim, and the bread and circuses given inside the city gates. A sermon for those who wish to see Jesus.

A Lenten sermon from Caitlyn on how hard it is to buy a good tomato, sin we didn’t ask to be a part of, and the grace that we do ask for.

A Lenten sermon from Mitch on John 3:16, and belonging as children of the light.