Where is Emily?

Several years ago we had a manners class for 3rd-5th graders as part of our children’s ministry. It was our intent to augment and refine a child’s basic understanding of etiquette. Although it was a successful effort in many ways, we were amazed that we needed to teach many of them how to hold their eating utensils before we could talk about proper table manners. Apparently, this is not a prerequisite for fast food or current family dining. So, why does it come as a surprise that many of our families don’t understand what R.S.V.P. means?

Church event after event is planned that requires some indication as to whether the invited ones will be present. A response is requested by a certain date. After limited replies, we start calling the invitees to try to determine who might be planning to attend. In the meantime, a commitment to final plans for food etc. has to be made. I am not clairvoyant, but I often have to pretend that I have this special talent if we are to go forth with the activity. On Sunday, twenty-five third graders are to receive Bibles during the 8:30 worship service. This is to be followed by a brunch for the student and their parents and a time for discovering how one navigates through the Bible. I would think that this might be an important event in the life of a family. Although some have indicated that they will attend, many have been silent about their intent. Others have made other plans. It would seem that Emily Post needs to be required reading in many of our homes or do we need to submit to this cultural trend and order out when the group arrives?

Labor Day 2009

On this Labor Day weekend, I can’t help but think of those who labor during this time of economic uncertainty. The latest Labor Department reports an unemployment rate of 9.7 percent. We all know stories of those who are under-employed or have given up. The effects continue to ripple through our lives, personally and as a community. Many of us have to re-think our priorities and to make difficult choices as we try to stretch our resources. However, it is important to remember low-wage laborers who support a culture that still demands many services and to offer justice and compassion where needed.

From the blog of Cathleen Falsani:

"So many of the stories in the Bible revolve around labor and laborers. Field workers. Shepherds. Fishermen. Builders. Weavers. Farmers. Servants. As one Labor Sunday sermon on the United Church of Christ Web site reminded me, Jesus (as a carpenter) was himself a “low-wage worker.” In our society, workers such as child-care providers, custodians, farm workers, day laborers, sales clerks, and housekeepers typically make the lowest wages for the longest hours.

“One-quarter of all jobs in the U.S. pay poverty-level wages,” the UCC sermon says. “In addition, these jobs are more likely to require evening, night, weekend or rotating shifts. They are less likely to provide health insurance, a pension, or even paid sick leave. They are more likely to be filled by women and people of color — marginal jobs for the already marginalized. Just like Jesus.”

Keeping Sabbath

The beauty and rage of the ocean have long served as insightful metaphors for many of life’s experiences. Today, as I sat by the ocean and let the rhythms of the waves take away stress and sadness and bring in a state of serenity, my soul was renewed. Finding peace and understanding through God’s creation once again gave direction for the journey and served as a powerful reminder of the biblical instruction to keep Sabbath as a holy day of rest. Why do I keep breaking this commandment?

Wise Words

This is the season of organizing Bible studies and trying to convince folk that this just might be the time for them to participate. Some are afraid to admit their limited knowledge and others feel that that have already done sufficient Bible study. Sometimes it is the wisdom of those who have gone before that provide the best argument for making this commitment. Such are the words of Gregory the Great (540-604):

"Scripture is like a river, broad and deep, shallow enough here for the lamb to go wading, but deep enough there for the elephant to swim."

Social Media

A couple months ago I realized that I had better get on board with social media, especially as to how it might be important to my ministry and the church's ministry. I researched, reviewed and took the plunge. I am now on Facebook and Twitter as is First UMC. James Sturgeon is responsible for the latter and is doing a great job with keeping it current. Although social media has been great summertime fun, I still wonder about the significance of it all. Then, my son, Robert, sent me this video. Maybe we are doing the right thing as we seek new ways to effectively tell the story.


Just when thought I was catching up with the newest and the latest, my husband gives me a smart phone. Now I have a new challenge. Will keep you posted.

A Challenge

As a regular reader of Issac Bailey’s column in The Sun News, I knew that I wanted to read his new book, Proud. Black. Southern. (But I Still Don’t Eat Watermelon in Front of White People) as soon as I was aware of it. Finally, I did read it several weeks ago and have been thinking about it ever since. Much of this book is comprised of previously published columns, which reflect on his personal experiences of growing up in South Carolina. As one might assume, he reveals some of his struggles as an African-American in a culture that is often labeled as racist. What is interesting is that Bailey’s observations are not always predictable and I find myself thinking about some of my views about race, especially in the South. He reminds us of the complexity of race relations and for the need for us to be in dialog about it, not only in our homes, our schools, but in our churches as well. As regular readers of his column know, Bailey just doesn’t write about matters of race, but puts himself in the community to discuss and act upon them. This becomes a challenge to the rest of us as we order our lives.

First Stop Online?

At first I laughed when I read the NY Times report that folks are going online in the morning before coffee. Then I realized that I may be closer to this than I would have ever imagined a few years ago. Slowly, I have found myself needing to read e-mail, Facebook, Twitter, and blogs more frequently. Ron and I each have a computer and an iPhone. Although I could give several almost legitimate reasons for this, I do wonder if this is the best use of my time, But, be assured that coffee still comes first. When that changes I will know that I am trouble. But, the idea about texting Ron to get his attention might have merit.

In Defense of Food

Michael Pollan, author of The Omnivore’s Dilemma, has written another book about the food we eat that will definitely linger in the mind of the reader, especially when one reaches for processed food. In Defense of Food is an account of the evolution and ramifications of the Western diet, which encourages one to return to the real, well-grown and unprocessed food for healthy eating. As Pollan says, ”Don’t get your fuel from the same place your car does.” By reporting how our culture has been immersed in “nutritionism” for the past thirty years and has become progressively sicker and fatter, he makes a good case for his basic conclusion- “eat food, not too much, mostly plants”.

Pollan further states that the habits that surround our eating seem to be very important to the health benefits of food. Eat meals and do so at the table instead of devouring snacks on the go. Eat slowly and not alone. The act of cooking is more than a task; it is a ritual that claims healthy eating as a way of life. Michael Pollan’s books have certainly influenced the choices we are making in our food consumption and I encourage others to consider his compelling case for good eating.

Zoe Ministry

Currently, three First Church members are in Kenya as missioners with Zoe Ministry. Internet has allowed some of us to feel a special connection with them as they have this extraordinary experience. I share some of their thoughts and encourage you to keep them in your prayers as they continue sharing God’s love in Africa.

Some reports from Jean Clemmons:
"…We visited the Maua Methodist Hospital today. The most depressing thing I have ever seen...though they are so proud to have the hospital. The nursery for the premature babies was just deplorable. Had homemade incubators that looked like what mamma and daddy used to hatch biddys. A box with a glass in door and an electric light underneath the the base to give warmth. I talked to a girl (I don't believe she was over 13) who just gave birth to a baby girl ...she was outside with blood on her clothes looking into the window of the nursery.We also toured the lab and patient areas. Had an area especially for treatment for HIV/Aids patients of which they have many. The conditions here are worse than I had ever imagined."

"…This morning we all had a mountain top experience with "Moses". He is a young boy (20 years of age) in the ZOE Ministry who has been in the program 1 year. He touched us all with him ambition and hard work. With the help of ZOE training getting him started with farming, he has a beautiful crop of kale, maize, 2,000 tomato plants, coffee bean trees, and a tea plantation. He sells his crops and re-invest into his farm to increase productivity. He supports and sends 2 siblings to school, and also shares his produce with neighbors who have less."

"…We built a house yesterday and today for an orphan with 5 siblings. She presently is living in a 8x6 hut built with branches and cardboard. One sibling sleeps with her. The others go to different neighbors houses to sleep. I get emotional everytime I look at what sweet little "Faith" (the 17 year old) is presently living in. It is horrible. We will have the dedication for the two houses ( 24ft. x 24ft. 2 bedroom) our team has built on Friday. When we arrived at the site this morning...Faith had done some landscaping after we left yesterday using rocks for borders."

Shannon Hussey says: "...This has been the most wonderful blessing God has given me. I don't plan to simply make a scrapbook of "my tour of misery." See you soon!"

Our friends are part of a larger mission team and one of its members has created a blog to record some of their experiences and reflections. This is well worth reading.

All of this, plus a long-standing interest in Africa and a challenge from Shannon, has left me wondering about what it is that I need to be doing to reach out to my brothers and sisters in this part of the world. In God's time, I will know.

Older Adult Ministry

Maybe it is because I am about to have another birthday, maybe it is because I have been occupied with aging parent issues or maybe it is because I am planning for our Snowbird and Seagull ministry, but I seem to be encountering some interesting articles about the graying of the church that have left me wondering. In our efforts to attract younger members, do we forget the fastest growing segment of our population? According to AARP, 41% of American adults are older than 50 and this number is increasing each year and it is well-documented that the average age of a United Methodist is 57.

We know that the older population cannot be uniformly defined and accommodated. It is popular to name three groupings of older adults as the go-gos, slow-gos and no-gos. Yet, do we really consider this in our planning for and nurturing of this segment of our community? It is much more than fellowship groups and large-print. It is no different than any other age group – know the needs and concerns and how individual gifts can be shared to create a nurturing ministry that promotes faithful discipleship. Somewhere along the way, we have given permission for too many of our older members to retire from the active status. We need them and they need us. It seems to me that we need to rethink much about what we call older adult ministry.

An Ohio Visit

I have just returned from visiting my parents in Ohio. My sister and brothers joined me to celebrate our mother's birthday. Lots of memories were shared as we helped our parents make some important decisions. As my sister says, "Aging is not for the faint of heart." It made us each realize the importance of family when difficult times prevail.

Newsweek

Recently, Newsweek made some radical changes in its format and content that left me wondering if I had lost an old friend. However, during the last few days I have had a good opportunity to spend time reading some of the current issues and have discovered a most interesting new friend. I do miss the shorter articles on a variety of subjects, but realize that I do and can read that kind of journalism on-line. What Newsweek now offers are more in-depth stories with a variety of respected voices reflecting on the subjects. Since I still find a special connection with the written word when I can hold it, dog-ear the pages and carry it with me, I find this quite appealing. Although the July 13 issue had a special report on the life and death of Michael Jackson, the "What to Read Now" focus was also included. It is interesting to note that this was the cover story for subscribers and Jackson was on the cover for newsstand readers. All of this seems to reflect another phase in the evolution of print media.

According to the editorial comment, the list of fifty books recommended in this particular issue of Newsweek are ones that “open a window on the times we live in, whether they deal directly with the issues of today or simply help us see ourselves in new and surprising ways.” Each one has a short explanation as to why one should read it in 2009. Some I have read, some are familiar, but too many I don’t know. Also included in this issue are an interesting roundtable discussion of writing books by those who do so and an article by David Gates about the pleasures of revisiting our favorite books. A listing of the top 100 books of all time can be found at Newsweek.com. All of this has left me hungry to find a comfortable, quiet place and do some serious reading.

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?

Still Knitting

A simple act of knitting three stitches and purling three stitches repeated again and again slowly becomes a prayer shawl. (A 2005 post) The shawl is offered with prayer to those who need to be reminded of God’s presence in their lives. However, this has also been a gift of God’s renewing and sustaining grace in my own life as I have practiced what has become a contemplative act during these last few years.

These days, as the tremors in my right hand challenge me, my knitting has taken on a greater significance in my life. Just as I have to accept that now I knit slower and struggle for even stitches and heartfelt prayers, there has become a greater compassion for others who face physical and spiritual tests. This has opened a door that I have yet to truly enter. I can’t accept my limitations, so it is difficult to honestly minister to others. As I look at my latest half-finished prayer shawl, I realize that God is not finished with me either. I know that I need to keep asking and answering the questions that will reveal a wholeness in this life, but too often the courage is lacking. Let me hear these words: “On God rests my deliverance and my honor; my mighty rock, my refuge is in God.” Psalm 62:7