Pastor Meta Herrick Carlson
Meta Herrick Carlson (she/her/hers) is a pastor and poet living in Minneapolis on Dakota land. Meta cares about cultivating healthy systems and preaching that moves us toward mercy and justice. Her theology is informed by the sacred wisdom of recovery ministry and survivors of sexual violence. She is also a co-founder of the Alter Guild podcast network.
Meta’s first book Ordinary Blessings: Prayers, Poems, and Meditations for Everyday Life (Fortress Press, February 2020) proves a worthy gift in these uncertain times. Her second book Speak It Plain: Words for Worship and Life Together (Fortress Press, December 2020) contains blessings and resources for church nerds and liturgical worship communities. Ordinary Blessings for Parents: Prayers, Poems, and Meditations for Family Life is scheduled for release with Broadleaf Books on August 30, 2022.
“I write because I want to amplify what is already and always good enough about those around me. I imagine a world in which we are liberated from fear and shame, where everyone honors their real selves. It is good soil for planting consent, mercy, and joy that grow and flourish. It begins at home, in the ordinary. It begins with blessing.”
She married a person named Matt who fixes things she breaks and waters all the plants. Their favorite weekends involve getting lost in the woods with the puppy and travel trailer. Their three kids are loud, sticky, and fiercely loved.