This Epiphany I introduced Advent Lutheran Church (ELCA) to star words. In doing so I learned that this was the first time words were received in worship and that the entire concept was new to many people.
Overview
For those just learning about star words, I encourage you to google around and learn more. In brief this new Epiphany practice invites people to choose a star. Only after choosing do they turn it over to learn the word it contains. That word – a star word – is then intended as a guide for the year ahead much like the star served to guide the magi.
My Experiences
I am not sure when I first learned about star words. I do, however, know that I first received a star word in 2023 and have received one every year since.
- 2025: Believe (see Epiphany: Chalk, Stars, and Journeying Anew)
- 2024: Faith (see Faith: My Star Word for 2024)
- 2023: Clarity (see Star Word for 2023 and Wrapping Up The Year of Clarity)
Faith
I’ve provided two links for the star word of clarity, one introducing it and another sharing how it went. I’ve introduced faith, but not yet shared how that word helped guide me through the year that just finished.
In short, faith shapes who I am and informs how I engage with others and with all of creation. Faith led me to continue the things I listed in the introductory post and nudged me explore returning to parish ministry. My faithful response led me to begin serving as the Interim Senior Pastor of Advent Lutheran Church in June 2024 (in addition to continuing my full-time ministry role as CEO of White Rock Center of Hope).
Believe
This year I chose a star containing the word believe. And, I’m prayerfully pondering what this word might mean for the year ahead.