Welcome to the Friends’ Meditation Collection
Here you will find all of the monthly meditations we’ve sent to the Friends of the Center since the beginning of the program. Our hope is that this page will make it easy for you to refer back to these thought-provoking, short reflections written by a diverse community of contributors, including pastoral leaders, theologians, scholars, graduate students, and faithful members active in their churches and communities.
In addition to the chronological ordering of the meditations, you can search by the seasons of the liturgical calendar through the buttons to the right.
What Does Pentecost Mean to You?
Wilson Fernandes, Jr.
Junior, originally from Brazil, is a worship leader in his local church. He currently works as the IT specialist for the Gonzalez Center and AETH.
This meditation defines Pentecost as a profound personal experience in which God is revealed in adversity and community.
The Ascension
Rev. Esteban González Doble
Rev. González, ordained in the Christian Church, has served as a pastor for several years in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Puerto Rico and has also held numerous leadership positions.
This meditation reflects on Jesus's Ascension, the promise of the Holy Spirit, and God's eternal presence.
An Easter Devotional: Resurrection Sunday
Dr. Carlos F. Cardoza-Orlandi
Dr. Cardoza-Orlandi is a theologian, historian, educator, and author. He is a professor at Baylor University, where he holds the Frederick E. Roach Chair in World Christianity.
This meditation explores the Walk to Emmaus, emphasizing the cosmic significance of Christ's resurrection and its call to discover Him in unexpected places, advocating for social and environmental justice.
The Roots of Our Lenten Season
Dr. Catherine G. González
Dr. González is an historian, theologian, and ordained Presbyterian minister. She retired from Columbia Theological Seminary as Professor Emerita of Church History.
This meditation traces the historical development of Lent and encourages reflection on the meaning of baptism and discipleship.