Barbara’s Riffs on Life

Big News — Big Changes for This 2009 Website

Two big changes for my — 2009! — website: a major redesign and a more spacious writing schedule for me. Read more.

Finding hope for our time: Charles Jennens’ libretto for Handel’s “Messiah” was a response to his time — and ours. Read more.

The top religion stories of 2025 from the Religion News Association reflect a world of turmoil — and hope. Read more.

Music to celebrate the birth of Jesus. Click here for Christmas carols — the old-fashioned kind. Read more.

All I want for Christmas is readers for my book, “Wrestling with God: Stories of Doubt and Faith.” You can help make it happen. Read more.

Where to throw those fancy decorator throw pillows? At my house, if you’re getting into bed, you throw them on the floor. Read more.