From the time Patricia and I first came to Big Canoe, almost four years ago, every day I have thought to myself, “What a rare privilege it is to live in this place, and especially to be a part of the faith community that is Big Canoe Chapel. So many people - so many rich histories - so many varied faith traditions! What a privilege to be here!” At the same time, every day I have thought to myself, “It is difficult to live graciously in the midst of so much diversity. We have to work at that every day!” Those two powerful feelings – side by side – every day!

Because we have come from many places, with many varied histories, and with many diverse faith traditions, each of us has customary ways of doing things. And, at least on the surface, it just feels better when things are done the way w…