Author Archives: karenpts

Meditation on Matthew 16:13-20 and Romans 13:8-14 for Rally Day First Presbyterian Church of Smithtown, NY Pastor Karen Crawford Sept. 10, 2023 I am so glad that Rally Day is finally here! We’ve been waiting and planning for this day of new beginnings. Our choirs are singing and ringing. The children are back in worshipContinue reading “Who Do You Say That I Am?”

Meditation on Exodus 3:1–15 Pastor Karen Crawford First Presbyterian Church of Smithtown, NY Sept. 3, 2023 It’s beautiful weather for Labor Day weekend! It feels like fall has come, but still with so many flowers in bloom—rose of Sharon and crepe myrtle! I was taking a walk yesterday afternoon, enjoying the fresh air and sunshine,Continue reading “We’re on Holy Ground”

In Memory of Jasodrah Maharaj August 8, 1924-August 24, 2023 Meditation on John 14: 1-19 Pastor Karen Crawford Sept. 1, 2023 She came to the United States in 1970 from Trinidad and Tobago, not knowing anyone, but ready to embrace America as her new home. Jasodrah Maharaj had already had a full life. She wasContinue reading “I Will Not Leave You Orphaned!”

Meditation on Exodus 1:8-2:10 First Presbyterian Church of Smithtown Pastor Karen Crawford Aug. 27, 2023 This past Thursday, I hosted another Bedtime Story and Prayer gathering on Zoom for the children.  Four families participated—11 children plus parents, on and off camera. Are you wondering why am I doing this? I’m pretty sure most pastors aren’tContinue reading “The Women (and a Girl) Who Saved Moses”

Meditation on Matthew 15:21-28 First Presbyterian Church of Smithtown Pastor Karen Crawford Aug. 20, 2023 Every community needs at least one person like a woman I met in Renville, MN—someone who would give the shirt off their back if someone was in need. Her name is Lori. She can be tough and gruff and blunt.Continue reading “She Keeps Shouting at Us!”

Meditation on Matthew 14:22-33 First Presbyterian Church of Smithtown Pastor Karen Crawford Aug. 13, 2023 It is good to be back leading worship with you. I can’t put into words how strange it feels on Sunday morning when I am NOT with you. My vacation began with a celebration of my birthday with my twoContinue reading “He Came Walking Toward Them… On the Sea”

Meditation on Matthew 13:1–9, 18–23 First Presbyterian Church of Smithtown Pastor Karen Crawford July 16, 2023 I took a walk around my garden yesterday, after the rain. And before the storm this morning! While the spring flowers and bulbs have finished, many of the summer flowers are blooming in vivid colors. Red roses, bee balm,Continue reading “We Are God’s Gardeners—and God’s Garden”

Meditation on Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30 First Presbyterian Church of Smithtown Pastor Karen Crawford July 9, 2023 I made a stop at an optician’s office to buy new glasses this week, in between pastoral care visits and serving Home Communion. Still wearing my pink clergy shirt with a white collar, I stopped in to see JohnContinue reading “Rest!”

Meditation on Matthew 10:40-42 First Presbyterian Church of Smithtown Pastor Karen Crawford July 2, 2023 Today, we had the joy of presenting an A.B. Lawrence Memorial Scholarship to Alyssa Hubbs, who has grown up in our congregation! I have seen her faith in action, and her loving, giving ways up close. I marvel at herContinue reading “Welcome!”

Meditation on Romans 8:14-38 In Memory of June Carlson 6/24/1930-3/22/2023 First Presbyterian Church of Smithtown Pastor Karen Crawford June 25, 2023 I was the new pastor in Smithtown when I called June Carlson in May of last year. I introduced myself and told her how surprised I was to discover that she was living inContinue reading “The Spirit Helps Us in Our Weakness”