Who’s Behind the Needle?

Welcome to my corner of the internet, where quilting threads, sermons, and reflections on life intertwine to create a rich tapestry of thoughts and stories. I’m James, a gay pastor, male quilter, and someone who believes in the power of creativity and faith to help us navigate this beautifully complex world. My journey combines the sacred and the practical, the intricate stitching of quilts with the even more intricate weaving of human experiences. Here, I hope to share a piece of myself with you—a blend of heartfelt reflections and hands-on creativity.

This blog is my space to share sermons, personal stories, and reflections on love, loss, grief, faith, and hope—all the pieces that make up the fabric of life. Sermons are often born from deep reflection and a desire to connect ancient wisdom to modern life, while my personal stories explore the ups and downs of being human. As a quilter, I share not only my projects but the deep meaningful lessons quilting has taught me—lessons about patience, resilience, and the beauty of imperfection. To me, quilting is more than a craft; it’s a metaphor for the ways we stitch together meaning from the fragments of our days.

Here, you'll find my thoughts on what I'm reading and watching, occasional posts about the food I’m enjoying (whether it’s a cozy home-cooked meal or a new favorite restaurant), and reflections on navigating life as a queer person of faith. I love diving into books and films that challenge and inspire me, savoring meals that bring comfort or excitement, and sharing stories that speak to the universal yet deeply personal journey of faith. This blog isn’t just for other pastors or quilters—though you’re more than welcome—it’s for anyone searching for honesty, warmth, and a reminder that life’s struggles and joys are shared experiences.

I hope this blog inspires you, empowers you, and reminds you that you’re not alone. Whether you’re struggling with big questions of faith, piecing together a quilt, or simply seeking solace in a story, I’m glad you’re here. Together, let’s create a space that celebrates the messy, beautiful, and meaningful act of piecing life together—one stitch at a time. Let’s piece together something beautiful.

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