The Wise Women of Advent: Part 4

Rev. Dr. Carolyn Scanlan-Holmes • December 11, 2023

What Is Her Name?

Throughout Advent we have been introduced to women whose wisdom lives throughout the ages. Women like Elizabeth, Anna, and Mary have all left their mark on history. Their stories remind us of all the women throughout history who have lived with wisdom and helped impact on the world around them. Their voices and teachings live on today. It's important that we listen. One of the women from the advent stories is not named at all. She is identified as a samaritan woman, going about her daily tasks of gathering water. She meets Jesus and their encounter reminds that the wisdom we need for living is already here and all we have to do is look for it. Her impact is as important as those women of Elizabeth, Anna, Mary, yet we do not know her name. Instead, she has become known as the woman at the well. On Sunday, we will hear her story and contemplate the stories -- told and untold -- influential yet unnamed women throughout history.

By Rev. Dr. Carolyn Scanlan-Holmes June 18, 2025
The Greenhouse Challenge Continues
By Rev. Richard Brendan June 16, 2025
Richard Rohr on Jesus, Justice, and the Crisis of Shallow Spirituality
By Matthew Vire June 15, 2025
A son's reflection on the complicated legacy of fatherhood, shaped by the glow of a welding torch and the blare of Sunday sermons. Matthew Vire explores how the imperfect love and unexpected lessons from a father leave an indelible mark, leading to a deeper understanding of those who shaped us.
June 10, 2025
Father's Day at The Garden
By Rev. Richard Brendan June 9, 2025
Life’s storms—both external and internal—test our resilience, but they also offer an opportunity for transformation. Inspired by the Japanese art of Kintsugi, this reflection explores how brokenness can lead to renewal, strength, and deeper purpose. Discover strategies for navigating challenges with mindfulness, self-care, and faith, and trust that in every fracture, light finds its way in.
By Rev. Dr. Carolyn Scanlan-Holmes June 3, 2025
Messages from the Mountaintop
By Rev. Dr. Carolyn Scanlan-Holmes May 27, 2025
Messages from the Mountaintop
By Betty Brandt May 23, 2025
A blog post in which Betty Brandt explores the alarming rise in antisemitism, recent tragic events, and the impact on Jewish communities, urging readers to stand in solidarity and foster awareness. It highlights personal reflections, concerns for safety, and meaningful ways to support and engage with Jewish friends and neighbors.
By Rev. Richard Brendan May 20, 2025
Messages from the Mountaintop
By Rev. Dr. Carolyn Scanlan-Holmes May 13, 2025
Who's On Your Mt. Rushmore?
More Posts