Larry Who?

OK, a tad about me. But not much, since my hope is for you to read me, rather than read about me.

I’m a United Methodist pastor and have served churches in various settings. I’ve also been a hospice chaplain and campus minister. In June 2007 I finished nearly nine years at a church in Fresno, California. Currently, I’m on leave of absence . . . unpaid and ready for . . .

What’s next? God knows!

But maintaining larrypatten.com is one commitment. Before I was formally ordained, my relationship with the Holy included writing, on wondering about my faith through and with words.

And there is also wandering into the wilderness. As with many, inspired by the likes of John Muir, I’ve gone “to the mountains to get their glad tidings.”

I’m joyfully married (we said “I do” in Yosemite’s chapel) and we are owned by three cats and a dog (see God Backwards).

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.”

What’s next? As an old joke goes: if you want to make God laugh, make plans. At present the most I can manage is some wondering and wandering.

I will be writing these And Yet essays--reflections on faith and foolishness--every week. Look for a new one by Friday afternoon.

Above: Recently, me hanging around some rocks in the mountains. Below: Me not so recently sitting on a rock with my older sister. She's still older.

Not all who wander are lost.

(J.R.R. Tolkien)