Advent: day 8

When people comment on preachers’ theology or insight or eloquence or even humor, and not their sexuality, I know that the kingdom of God is near.

Pam Byers, Covenant Network of Presbyterians, San Francisco

Advent: day 7

When I think of the people God has blessed me with, those who have brought me this far, I know the Kingdom of God is near.

Mieke Vandersall, Minister Director, Presbyterian Welcome

Advent: day 6

When I see a deer watching me through my window, defying the odds of all kinds of weather, traffic, and suburban development, I know that the kingdom of God is near.

Laura Cunningham, Pastor, Nauraushaun Presbyterian Church, Pearl River, NY

Advent: day 5

When I see the faces of my small congregation on Sunday mornings, in all their variety of age and color and culture and orientation, when I remember their hopes and fears and joys, sorrows, and triumphs and see that we are all still here together, I know that the kindom of God is near.


Rev. Bob Brashear
Pastor, West-park Presbyterian Church
Manhattan, Upper Westside

Advent: day 4

When cynics' hearts melt, I know that the kingdom of God is near.


Rose Darling, Broadway Presbyterian Church Liaison to Presbyterian Welcome, New York City, NY

Advent: day 3

When I see hatred reduced to struggling for survival against love, I will know that the reign of God is near.

Jenny Howard, Louisville Seminary, Louisville, KY

Advent: day 2

When a developmentally delayed teenager who can barely form a coherent sentence affirms his faith and is received as an active member, I know that the kingdom of God is near.

John Edward Harris, North Church, Queens, Flushing NY