At Royal Arch Lake, Yosemite
Hello and welcome. I’m Larry Patten, a United Methodist pastor. I’ve served churches in various settings, along with stints as a hospice chaplain and campus minister. Way back in June 2007 I finished nearly nine years at a church in Fresno, California. Before reaching the tenth year, I decided I wanted to actually see my wife and reclaim some time for writing. Currently, I’m officially on leave and ready for . . .
Whatever is next! (God may know, but rarely reveals the Divine hand.)
Maintaining this site is an essential commitment to my calling. Before formal ordination, my relationship with the Holy included writing, on wondering about my faith through and with words. And there’s also wandering into the wilderness. Inspired by the likes of John Muir, I’ve gone “to the mountains to get their glad tidings.” I’m joyfully married (we did the “I do” in Yosemite’s chapel) and owned by three feisty cats and an arthritic, puppy-like golden retriever. She’ll be eleven in 2011.
Though I’m enthused about many subjects—from taking the Bible seriously but not literally, to full equality for queers and straights, and with appreciation of other faith traditions—I try not to take myself too seriously. “Angels can fly,” G.K. Chesterton wrote, “because they take themselves lightly.”
I will be writing reflections on faith and foolishness every week, most of them lectionary-influenced. Look for a new one by Tuesday afternoon. If you subscribe, I’ll send you a reminder.
If you want to learn about my writing goals and dreams, check out—clever title here—MY WRITING on this site.
The top picture is a view of the Kaweah Ridge, from the Little Five Lakes basin, Mineral King (in Sequoia National Park).
Hannah, the puppy, on one of her "bad" days!
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nice to read you page
Thanks Bonnie!
Larry – you sound like my kind of guy – something of a retirement failure! Maybe their is a deal for you – ever thought about Indonesia for a spell?
Hey thanks Lyle. But I’m not really a retirement failure, since I haven’t retired. Maybe I’m a retirement “avoider.” But actually, what’s retirement for writers, pastors, and other word purveyors? Those thoughts, ideas, and stories always keep nudging us.
It’s been several months since I was here last. Site lookes much brighter, cleaner, and more inviting. Very nice.
Thanks, Bruce! Maybe it’s brighter because we’re getting into summertime! Take care.
It seems as though the weatherman miss read the snow possibilities for the
trip….Regards to you both Morgan
Larry,
I just now found your website, it was great to learn more about you and your work. (And Hannah, though the crazy cat lady that I am demands equally adorable pics of the three feisty felines!)
I understand what you’re saying, but the cats won’t sign the waivers to allow online photos. I threaten to post some anyway. They meow about knowing lawyers who adore cats. Sigh.
Hi Larry,
I enjoy reading your blog each week. So much so that I’ve added you to my blogroll – hope you gain some more visitors.
Neil