Entries by Kevin Ireland

Blessed to Be a Blessing

This weekend our nation marks the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. It is an opportunity to gather with family and friends, enjoy parades and fireworks, and give thanks for the many blessings we have received as citizens of this country. As Christians, gratitude has always been one of our first responses to God’s […]

Gathered in the Spirit: GA227

Next week, commissioners from across the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) will gather in Milwaukee for the 227th General Assembly, the highest governing body of our denomination. Commissioners, advisory delegates, staff, and observers will come together for worship, discernment, conversation, and decision-making as they seek God’s guidance for the future of the church. The Presbytery of Southern […]

Setting Our Sails, Discerning God’s Call

Last Saturday, our Elders and Trustees gathered to reflect on what we have been hearing throughout our listening sessions, congregational survey, and conversations over the past several months. Together, we prayed, listened, and discerned where God may be leading Grace Presbyterian Church in the years ahead. I’ve shared the image of the church as a […]

Raising the Sails

Over the past several weeks, our Elders and Trustees have begun reviewing the feedback you shared through our Listening Sessions and Congregational Survey. As we continue this process of discernment, I’ve been spending time with a book that has been shaping some of my thinking: *Sailboat Church: Helping Your Church Rethink Its Mission and Practice* […]

The Journey We Share

This week Rachel and I made the drive to Austin, Texas to visit our kids and bring our youngest, Kiran, home to Wichita for the summer. Soon after arriving, we celebrated Kiran’s birthday at our favorite Asian diners. Gifts were exchanged: a Grateful Dead poster left behind by a friend, a pair of well-loved vegan […]