I have a confession; and I hope I don’t hurt anyone’s feelings. I don’t like musicals. Like, musical theater. I like plays; I like music…I don’t like musicals. This hasn’t always been true, but for whatever reason, it has become true. My wife an…
After three years serving in children’s ministries and growing both personally and professionally, Maddy Carroll is preparing to step into the next phase of her call to ministry. Maddy departs St. Paul this month to begin a nine-month internship in M…
A deeper chapter in a meaningful partnership is about to unfold. This summer, St. Paul is expanding its relationship with Tapestry Farms, a Quad-Cities nonprofit dedicated to walking alongside refugees and strengthening access to resources in this co…
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If you ever find yourself driving northeast outside of Tucson, Arizona, you may happen upon Biosphere 2, owned and operated by the University of Arizona. Inside this large campus of glass domes is essentially a mini-Earth. Whole ecosystems exist in w…
For many people, everything about these last days of July has screamed “vacation!” It may be the welcome break from a long slog at work. It may be a deep desire to escape the vagaries of a Midwest summer. It may be the fulfillment of a long-planned a…
By Karen Brooks, contributing writer Every weekend, pastors lead worship in front of the congregation, but behind the scenes many hands help make St. Paul a warm and welcoming place. Some volunteers sharpen pew pencils. Others collect the recycling…
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The abundance of rain has made the yards in my neighborhood lush and verdant. Tomatoes overflow their cages. Coneflowers burst with their bright pink in every direction. Hydrangeas have grown to be as big as bowling balls. On my daily dog walks, I’ve…
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Nearly 30 years ago, a German artist named Hans Hemmert came up with a new concept for a performance art piece. Hemmert wanted to find a way to visually represent the power of seeing others in a different perspective and the significance of what it m…
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“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age….
For the past two years, Mac Mullins has served as a pastoral resident at St. Paul. As his residency comes to a close, Mac reflects on the transformation he’s experienced—both personally and professionally—and looks ahead to his next chapter as an ass…
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I can be a sucker for a good parade. I remember community celebrations when I was growing up and I would get excited for the parade. Even as an adult, there is so much joy shown as people gather to celebrate. I love that a community can have pride…
At St. Paul, faith is a lifelong journey. As Lutheran Christians, we are continually growing—seeking deeper meaning and stronger connection with God throughout all stages of life. Intentional faith formation is central to who we are, and we cherish o…