Pastor's Mini-Essay
BASEBALL is often called "America's pastime."That baseball is an important element of America's history and culture cannot be denied, especially here in Cincinnati, where major league baseball began.It reflects Christian, American & Protestant values.
With the last Protestant leaving the US Supreme Court, there is may be a new reality in our country.If Ms. Kagan is confirmed, as America's newest Supreme Court Justice, there will be 3 Jews and 6 Catholics deciding the laws of the nation.Consequently, articles have appeared recently in the press on the "death of Protestantism."
It can be cogently argued that without Protestantism, there would have been NO America, as we know it.Without Protestantism and America, there would have been no Capitalism, as we know it.Even many Catholics in America hold Protestant views.
Baseball is not only a fun game, it is a game which rewards the "Protestant Ethic": industry, sobriety, and thrift.It is a game in which Christian realities are often seen:"hits" (a kind of righteousness), "errors" (sin), "sacrifice," (bunts and flies to advance runners),facing catastrophe "the Tribulation" (leading 9-1 in the ninth and losing 10-1), "Jubilation"(walk off home run),scripture reading (reviewing the rules), preaching (pep talks), teaching (coaching in all the aspects of the game), salvation (closing relief pitcher getting 3 outs in the ninth to save the win), trying one's spirit (wrongly called out on close play at the plate), and more.
The spiritual values of initiative, hard work, dedication, team work make for success in Baseball and in life.In the book ofI Peter,we are admonished to "love the brotherhood."In baseball mutual respect makes for team cohesion, when leads to victories.
Pilgrim Chapel is now planning BASEBALL SUNDAY for July 11.If you would like to help in the planning, do remain after the refreshments hour today for a few minutes, as we get organized to carry out this mission.
It is my belief that baseball WILL endure;Protestantism will endure.Capitalism will endure.And, America will endure.These realities will endure so long as there is will, commitment, caring, working, serving, sacrificing, and a recognition that LIFE—like the stock market—can be volatile, with ups and downs, and the ebbing and flowing of present forces and realities.
(Rev.) Robert W. Croskery, D.Min .
Mt. Adams Pilgrim Chapel
513-381-7999 1222 Ida St. Cincinnati, OH 45202
Mission Statement
The mission of Mount Adams Pilgrim Chapel United Church of Christ is to express celebrate our love and support of Christ through outreach to the community and ministry to the needy.
Vision Statement
Mount Adams Pilgrim Chapel United Church of Christ is dedicated to the increased intellectual and spiritual growth of people of all ages and needs. Mount Adams Pilgrim Chapel United church of Christ as a united and dynamic congregation to continually serve the local and greater community.
The mission of Mount Adams Pilgrim Chapel United Church of Christ is to express celebrate our love and support of Christ through outreach to the community and ministry to the needy.
Vision Statement
Mount Adams Pilgrim Chapel United Church of Christ is dedicated to the increased intellectual and spiritual growth of people of all ages and needs. Mount Adams Pilgrim Chapel United church of Christ as a united and dynamic congregation to continually serve the local and greater community.
