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Reflections on faith, community, and compassionate living from St. Francis Episcopal Church in Greensboro.

Image of Everyday Saints for St. Francis Episcopal Church Adult Christian Education text reading Have Mercy Following Jesus in Politically Challenging Times Part 2

Have Mercy: Following Jesus in Politically Challenging Times Part 2

by The Rev. Deacon Joe Dzugan | Oct 25, 2026

How do core Gospel commitments shape faithful Christian discipleship in today’s polarized political climate? Drawing on scripture, prayer, and insights from Bishop Mariann Budde, this reflection explores the "politics of mercy"—a call to ground our civic engagement in humility, truth, and intertwined righteousness and love.

Image of Everyday Saints for St. Francis Episcopal Church Adult Christian Education text reading Have Mercy Following Jesus in Politically Challenging Times Part 1

Have Mercy: Following Jesus in Politically Challenging Times – Part 1

by The Rev. Deacon Joe Dzugan | Oct 11, 2026

Rooted in Celtic prayer and scripture, this reflection explores how Christians can bear courageous, non-partisan witness in politically polarized times. Drawing on insights from Presiding Bishop Sean Rowe, Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde, and theological leaders, the post unpacks the biblical meaning of mercy—from a divine attribute (hesed) to active practices of love, truth-telling, and welcoming the stranger.

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Reading the Bible Responsibly in a Polarized Church & World – Part 14

by The Rev. Deacon Joe Dzugan | May 17, 2026

Deacon Joe dives into the complex history of biblical interpretation. From the Bible's historical role in the debate over slavery to its modern usage across the political spectrum, we examine the principles that guide how we read and apply these sacred texts today.

Group of people studying the bible at a table with Reading the Bible Responsibly Part 13 title for St Francis Episcopal Church blog

Reading the Bible Responsibly in a Polarized Church & World – Part 13

by The Rev. Deacon Joe Dzugan | May 10, 2026

Deacon Joe dives into the complex history of biblical interpretation. From the Bible's historical role in the debate over slavery to its modern usage across the political spectrum, we examine the principles that guide how we read and apply these sacred texts today.

Bible on a study table including reading glasses with Reading the Bible Responsibly Part 12 title for St Francis Episcopal Church blog

Reading the Bible Responsibly in a Polarized Church & World – Part 12

by The Rev. Deacon Joe Dzugan | May 3, 2026

Deacon Joe dives into the complex history of biblical interpretation. From the Bible's historical role in the debate over slavery to its modern usage across the political spectrum, we examine the principles that guide how we read and apply these sacred texts today.

Bible on a table including  candle and reading glasses with Reading the Bible Responsibly Part 11 title for St Francis Episcopal Church blog

Reading the Bible Responsibly in a Polarized Church & World – Part 11

by The Rev. Deacon Joe Dzugan | Apr 26, 2026

Deacon Joe dives into the complex history of biblical interpretation. From the Bible's historical role in the debate over slavery to its modern usage across the political spectrum, we examine the principles that guide how we read and apply these sacred texts today.