We’re excited to welcome Elizabeth Pruchnicki as Immanuel’s new Youth Director this month. Below, we asked her a few introductory questions. 

Then the prophet Miriam, Aaron’s sister, took a tambourine in her hand; and all the women went out after her with tambourines and with dancing. Exodus 15: 20   Upon reading this passage, my thoughts go to the events leading up to this celebratory song and dance. Prior to this, Miriam is referred to as…

Why do you walk labyrinths?, my friend asked, as we completed the many circuits of an outdoor labyrinth. I have many answers: because I like to walk them; because they leave me with a feeling of peace; because they impose a slower, more meditative rhythm in my day.

“Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2 Ranier Maria Rilke wrote, “I live my life in widening circles.”  The sense of family,  of community, of close connection drew us initially to Immanuel. We enjoyed the shared warmth of greetings in the pews, conversation over coffee…

Psalm 30:6-12  When I felt secure, I said, “I will never be shaken.” Lord, when you favored me, you made my royal mountain stand firm; but when you hid your face, I was dismayed. To you, Lord, I called; to the Lord I cried for mercy: “What is gained if I am silenced, if I go…

As the temperature drops, now is the time to consider making your own blessing bags at home to carry with you in your car or on your commute.  When you see someone experiencing homelessness, simply say hello and offer the bag.  Consider introducing yourself and offer a kind word along with a blessing bag. Immanuel…

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13 At first reading, especially if the person doing the reading views faith skeptically, this prayer can sound less like a fervent wish for someone, and…

The 2016 Presidential election has brought a renewed interest in Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s life and writing. Perhaps this shouldn’t be a surprise. Most election years bring (more than) a few thought-pieces and editorials drawing connections between current candidates and Bonhoeffer’s well-known context and work.