Random Thoughts

Reflecting on the week that was, some vivid pictures linger in my mind –

children singing with joy and being enthralled by storytellers,

families walking into the church together,

a confused governor trying to explain why he abandoned his post,

a woman politician saying a woman should not be considered for the county administrator position,

endless commentary about an entertainer’s passing and crowds gathering to mourn him,

a face of suffering and pain as another life was lost to cancer,

a hug from a child when he learned that he would be able to go to camp,

continuing images of Iranian protestors,

tears as we said goodbye to one minister and smiles as we welcomed another one,

dark storm clouds approaching just as VBS children were ready to enjoy a jump castle and other inflatables,

many hands taking down and putting away VBS for another year,

answering a phone to hear that my father’s surgery went well,

having a loving husband that is truly my helpmate.

As the children learned in VBS, I "experience and discover God everywhere."

P.S. – Four years ago today I began this blog and after 612 posts I am still finding new paths on the journey. Thanks for comments and challenges.

Moving Day

Today is moving day for SC United Methodist clergy. Some will be moving to new churches, but all ministers mark this day as significant and lift prayers for congregations and pastors that are experiencing change. We know the history and polity of itinerancy. We know the value of this system. We also know the emotional turmoil that this often creates for those involved. So, today with sadness we say farewell to Scarlett and with excitement welcome Jonathan.

The success of clergy moves is not one-sided. The willingness of a congregation to embrace the newness that will be part of the days to come plays a large role in building a healthy relationship. Clergy are given all sorts of advice as to how to handle moves (although not always followed), but are congregations prepared? Sometimes I wonder if the cone of silence that surrounds these moves for months prior to moving day causes a congregation to circle the wagons in fear of what might be coming over the horizon. Perhaps we need to look again at how we handle this moving process in SC.

Father's Day

Lengthy, eloquent tributes abound as daughters and sons send greetings to their fathers this weekend, but I am thinking more in a ‘top-10” format as I remember my dad.

1. I have never had to question Dad’s love of my mother or his
children.

2. With Mother, he has given us a sense of place, a home, that will always shape who we are.

3. Dad has taught us to appreciate the land on which we tread.

4. From his example, we learned at an early age what it means to be a good citizen and community servant.

5. As a faithful man of God, he has nurtured us in our discipleship.

6. If we tripped or fell on life’s path, he has always been there to catch us.

7. His love of reading has always been contagious.

8. Dad’s passion and care for animals has made us appreciate
all God’s creatures.

9. His ice cream gene has been successfully passed to children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

10. Dad’s appreciation of the restoring value of a good nap has always been modeled for us.


I love you, Dad!

A Very Good Book

The Story of Edgar Sawtelle has been on my to-read list for months and after seemingly being intimidated by it’s length, I recently decided to tackle it as an audio book borrowed from the Socastee Library. During the following weeks, I looked forward to driving anywhere, because I knew Richard Poe’s voice would fill my car with the wonderful telling of David Wroblewski’s captivating novel. Set in rural Wisconsin, this family saga surrounds a unique breed of dogs and a mute young hero whose ability to communicate with both humans and animals is intriguing. Edgar’s tale takes the reader/listener to the extremes of human tragedy with the creative use of language and plot, the makings of a very good novel. I especially enjoyed the exploration of the heart and intelligence of this fictional breed of dogs that filled Edgar’s life with important companionship. Not the usual summer read, but one that I would recommend for others to consider including whenever they have time to savor it.

Woman of Character

When reading the current copy of Sasee, I was delighted to see a picture of Shannon Hussey and Courtney Howard and to read the attached article. Shannon is Sasee’s current “Woman of Character” as a result of Courtney’s nomination. It is great to know that a youth recognizes the importance of a mentoring relationship. Also, I know that Shannon takes this role seriously. I was pleased that their confirmation experience was noted as part of this. Congratulations to both of these fine young women.

Annual Conference 2009

Lay and clergy members of the South Carolina Annual Conference met in Florence this week. In the midst of taking care of business, we worshiped and enjoyed some important time of fellowship. And, sometimes we found ourselves or so it seemed to be for me this week.

For a variety of reasons, I arrived a bit tired and harried late Sunday afternoon. Almost immediately I was in the clergy session followed by the ordination service. Although it with great joy to see Jonathan Tompkins commissioned and Alice Deal ordained, I was beginning to be a bit blurry eyed and fuzzy brained with the final laying on of hands. It wasn’t until Monday that I truly began to be in holy conference with my brothers and sisters.

One of the first orders of business was to address the 32 amendments to the Constitution of the United Methodist Church as proposed by the 2008 General Conference. Some of the usual voices gave the predicted speeches for and against them and most of the comments were ones that had been well circulated prior to Annual Conference. However, all of this was conducted with more civility and in less time than I expected. The outcome in South Carolina was about as I predicted. I am not so sure how the UMC as a whole will respond, but somehow I feel it will be the right answer.

As is our custom, we remembered those clergy and clergy spouses who entered the church triumphant during the past year. The Rev. Mel Arant honored their ministries by sharing the Word with clarity and sincerity. With a background of appropriate music, projected pictures of each one of these servants reminded me of their humanity and devoted service. The power of this cloud of witnesses spoke to my soul and seemed to offer me assurance that I am doing what God has called me to do.

Renewing acquaintances and spending time with friends was nurturing, as it often served as a time of accountability. I have discovered that inherent in these relationships is the challenge to uphold my ordination vows. A sense of renewal began to prevail within my soul and by the time that Bishop Taylor sent us forth I was ready to continue the journey with courage and hope. Thanks be to God.

I Wonder

I recently found this quote in an old file. The source is unknown, but the insight is timeless.

" The superficial church ignores its members gifts. The cannibal church devours its members to keep itself going. But the living church multiplies the gifts it is given and blesses the lives that are offered."

Which of these terms describes our/your church? Personally, I see a little of each of these definitions in my church and wonder how we can become a stronger living church. Any ideas?