Memorial Day

Although my family is not a military family (mainly because there are too many Quakers in it), my grandmother taught me that Decoration Day was very important. I would accompany her as she placed flowers, usually iris and peonies, on family graves in several cemeteries. She also included the graves of former neighbors who no longer had family to attend to this duty. Of course, hearing family stories was an important part of the ritual. But, most of all I was taught to remember and respect those whose lives had created my world. In many ways it was a sacred journey. This ritual usually was done during the twilight hours before Decoration Day, so that the flowers could bear testimony to love and honor the whole next day.

My brothers, sister and I looked forward to the parade that was part of the local Decoration Day celebration. Led by the high school band, grey haired veterans of the armed services would proudly remind us of the day’s purpose. A fire truck and a few old cars were the remainder of this parade that ended at the cemetery. Speeches and taps followed. I am glad that I have these rich memories of those who gave so much to their community and country in so many ways.

Mary Magdalene

I have claimed a few hours for reading this morning and finally finished last week's issue of Newsweek. An Inconvenient Woman, an article about Mary Magdalene by Jonathan Darman, was especially interesting and I will keep it for future reference. As evidenced in many of my bible study classes, a large number of persons still idenify her as a prostitute. This article also includes twelve fact or fiction subjects from The Da Vinci Code. A good quick reference.

Alban Institue

The mission of the Alban Institute is to provide new research-based information and new ways to learn and minister more effectively within and outside the faith community. This ecumenical, interfaith organization is a well-respected source of continuing education for clergy and information for churches. So, when their electronic newsletter appears in my in-box, I look forward to reading it. One of today’s articles is about Twelve Characteristics for Effective 21st Century Ministry. The summation is that clergy need to be generalists. Focusing on one facet of ministry may not be the best path to take. This is not only an important consideration for clergy, but also for congregations who are quick to say, “What we need is a good ...." Something about which to think.

Rebecca

For a second year, First UMC has a Duke Divinity School student as a summer intern. Rebecca has completed her first year of seminary and will be with us for ten weeks learning what it is like to serve in the local church. This field experience is designed to help her further understand her call to ministry. That is, is she to be an elder or deacon? Is her ministry to be in the local church or in another setting? In this introductory week, Rebecca has observed that clergy have a varied and busy schedule, one that has to adjust to the moment. Rebecca has been to three worship services, flute concert, birthday party, hospital, Child Development Ministry, staff meeting, home visit and funeral. She has met with staff persons about what they do, created a bulletin board for Dancing With God and laid sod at our Habitat house. I have given her an armload of books and more advice than she could possibly use. I think that she is looking forward to some rest.

With the direction of a lay committee, Ken and I supervise this field experience. It is a joy to see that the congregation senses a responsibility to nurture Rebecca and to warmly welcome her, also. Together, we are understanding what it means to pass the mantle.

Endings or Beginnings?

The month of May is often defined by endings. Our children are finishing their school year and some will graduate. Our confirmation class has ended and MYF has concluded its regular schedule until fall. Our DISCIPLE and Companions in Christ classes are completing their studies. Wednesday Night Fellowship and our children's choirs are on hiatus until September.

As I watched the four year old class graduation at our Child Development Ministry, I realized that each of these endings is just a calling into a new beginning. Taking what is formative of these experiences, we know that we are to move to a new place in our lives. Part of our being soars at new possibilities, but part mourns with the pain of leaving behind the past. However, the One who moves with us blesses each of these moments and we hear, "Behold, I am doing a new thing." A new day dawns and the conversation with God continues in new and exciting ways.

Spartanburg Methodist College

In the early morning hours of Thursday, I drove to Spartanburg for a Spartanburg Methodist College Board of Trustee meeting. For the past couple of years I have served as a trustee of SMC and have gained a greater appreciation for this two year college. From its inception, SMC has chosen to serve those who probably will not have an oppportunity to attend college. In the beginning, it was mill village youth who did not have financial resources. Today, students who have a variety of challenges are welcomed and ushered into the world of higher education. Many are first in their family to attend college. Upon graduation, a large number of the students continue their education at other places. The leadership of Dr. Teague and the staff is to be commended. The commitment of Board Chair, Dan Foster, and a number of the other trustees is inspiring. As a United Methodist, I am proud that we continue to support SMC and hope that we find new ways to assist this institution. I am convinced that this is an important investment in the future as we prepare the next generation to think and learn in the midst of real life challenges. John Wesley would want us to be involved in such a venture.

Shandon UMC

Yesterday, I was at Shandon UMC in Columbia. Five years ago I left this church to serve at First UMC. Since then I have returned several times for different occasions. Good memories and good friends have made these experiences bittersweet. However, this visit was different. It was like visiting my parents in the home place. I realized that that the door will always be open and I will always have a place at the table. That feels good. However, my home is elsewhere with my own furniture, family and lifestyle. Yet, a few touches from the home place can be found not only on the mantle, but also in the closets. Thank you, God, for providing me with “parents” that have nurtured me and continue to love and teach me in the way that I should go.

Jubilee Voices

This past Thursday and Friday, Scarlett and I joined clergy women from across the country at Columbia College to celebrate Methodism’s 50th anniversary of full clergy rights for women. We remembered the women, especially those who endured rejection and great obstacles to fulfill their calls, who have made our personal ministries possible. It was good to hear Bishop Minerva Carcano say that gender is not an issue when the Council of Bishops meet. All voices at the table are heard. An outspoken advocate for social justice issues, the Bishop reminded us that we too are called to take risks if we are to offer a liberating God to others.

A variety of workshops gave us an opportunity to explore topics that are important to our journey as a clergywoman. I especially enjoyed “Women’s Ways of Knowing, Learning and Leading” presented by Drs. Burk and Fowler of Columbia College. By looking at various leadership theories and the culture that surrounds men and women, important understandings of different leadership styles was examined. The challenge for each of us is to define our style and use it effectively.

Our worship experiences were filled with different voices representative of women in ministry. From the exuberant preaching of Telley Gadsen to the poignant and humorous storytelling of Rosemary Brown, the Word was declared. I especially appreciated the meditation and music of the Taize service. Each worship service offered an opportunity for personal reflection of where I had been and where I am going. I feel renewed in my call to ministry.

The Da Vinci Code Revisited

On our recent trip to Ohio, I did listen to The Da Vinci Code audio book. I enjoyed it as a mystery thriller. However, as is often in such a book, fact and fiction are blurred. Thus, the reader may be motivated to research the facts through the study of early church history. The UMC General Board of Discipleship website has posted some helpful information for questioning minds. As always, I would be glad to share other resources for those wanting to read more about Early Christianity.

Predators

I have been watching bits and pieces of Chris Hansen’s confrontations with sexual predators on NBC’s Dateline over the last few weeks. Disgusting! Sick! I would rather ignore this social ill, but I realize that I can’t. I don’t know what the appropriate response needs to be. But, somehow I need to educate parents to this danger their teens face when they enter into this dark side of the Internet and help them talk with their youth about this danger. I also know that parents still are reluctant to help their children understand their sexual being. This makes them vulnerable to this kind of scum. It is interesting that the suggestion that the church offer a human sexuality program for 4-6th grade students and their parents has not been welcomed by those who could make it happen. I think our church family sometimes insulates itself from the greater community. Somehow I need to help our parents address some of these issues.

A Pastoral Prayer

First United Methodist Church
May 7, 2006
I Corinthians 12:1-13

O God, giver of all good gifts, we come together this morning to give thanks for the abundance of our many blessings. We are aware and open to the variety of gifts that you have allotted each of us by the Holy Spirit. Your goodness fills us with gratitude and joy. We come together to take up our crosses and to follow our Lord and Savior.

However, God, we are such a busy, stress-filled people. Sometimes your holy calling is an idea too big to get our hearts around. So, we place before you our tired and empty lives. May our commitment to share what you have so generously given us be renewed.

Hear us as we cry out to you. We want to experience the steadfast love realized through faithfulness. We want to do your will. Help us, O God. Reveal your abiding presence amid the “to do” lists of our lives. May your love be perfected in our doing and being.

We place before you this church who has been given so many gifts. Each person adds to the richness of this congregation and allows us to serve you. Empower us to be compassionate so that we might hear and respond to the cries of your children in need of healing of mind, body or spirit (esp. in Darfur and…. ) Empower us to be instruments of your hope to those who have lost their way (esp those who are struggling with addictions and ….) May we be instruments of your grace to those who need to begin again (esp. those along the Gulf Coast and… ) And make us instruments of your love to the lonely and forgotten ones (esp. the sick, elderly persons in our community and …). Empower us to make your love a reality in this world, for all we have comes from one source, your great love for us.

And so we humbly offer all of our gifts and all of ourselves to your glory in the name of the one who taught us to pray, Our Father.....

What We Believe

Last Sunday I met with the confirmands and mentors to discuss/review what it is that we believe as Christians and United Methodists. Together, we began to create an affirmation of faith that will be used when they are confirmed on Sunday, May 14. This week as I put their words together in a rough draft for its final editing by the class, I was pleased with how they have been able to articulate the understanding of their faith. Family and mentors have played an important role in this, also. We may not have quantity this year, but we have a quality group of youth.

Periodically, I am questioned about what United Methodists believe. Although many books and pamphlets have been written, I think a good beginning point for those seeking answers would be to look at this part of the UMC website. Our library does has a number of resources, also. Of course, any of the clergy welcome discussion of this subject as far too often what one believes only reflects the latest book by a popular author.

Picture Words

My friend, Miss Nell, says that pictures are very important to the story. This one of Annaka and Jack brings joy to my heart everytime I see it. Ron has been enjoying doing a photo blog, Pixel Pics. These pictures capture something that has caught his attention and he wants to remember. I enjoy them, also.

Darfur

I have been reading about the genocide in the Darfur region of Sudan for months, but very seldom have seen or heard much about it in popular news sources. So it was with a sense of relief when I saw George and Nick Clooney using the power of their name recognition to capture the attention of the press. After a recent trip to this overlooked part of the world, they have made a short documentary about what they learned of the conditions and conflict within it and are making the rounds of news and talk shows. At the heart of the conflict is the escalating violence in the western region of Sudan against ethnic Africans who have been targeted for elimination by Arab Janijaweed militias in collaboration with Sudan’s central government in Khartoum. An estimated 200,000 to 400,000 have died and forced migrations have displaced about 2.5 million.

I referenced Darfur in my February 25th blog after reading Elie Wiesel’s book, Night. In this blog I noted that he concluded his acceptance speech for the Nobel Peace Prize by saying, “Our lives no longer belong to us alone, they belong to all those who need us desperately.” The people of Darfur need us desparately.

A Week in Review

Monday – Our staff was saddened to learn that Sara Dee’s father died after a long period of illness. We searched for ways to be supportive of her and her family during this time. Appropriate responses to grief are always difficult to make. May God’s abiding presence be known to them this week and in the weeks to come.

Tuesday – I am glad to know that some of our folks are using The Da Vinci Code and other popular books etc. as a springboard for study about early church history. This Sunday our short-term study group will begin exploring this topic during the Sunday school hour. Many church members do not have much understanding of the period from Paul to the Reformation as it relates to the church. I think a study of such can be both informing and affirming as it relates to our faith.

Wednesday - Eddie’s Garden at the Child Development Ministry serves not only as a wonderful space for children, but also as a loving reminder of a man that joyfully served his church and his Lord. Always willing to lend a hand, Eddie especially wanted the CDM to have the very best. He knew how important this ministry was to children. I trust that Eddie knows he will always have a special place in our hearts and the lives of our children. I am so glad that the rain abated and we were able to dedicate this garden on Wednesday.

Thursday – The SC Board of Ministry met to finalize matters before Annual Conference. One of our concerns is that our candidates maintain a healthy lifestyle so as to be able to do effective ministry. Generous servings of Southern cooking and lack of exercise have led some of our folks into a state of obesity and poor health. We now ask them to address this before being commissioned and ordained. This can be a very difficult discussion for all concerned. What a joy it was to meet with a candidate that has accepted our words about the importance of losing weight and is doing all the right things to make it happen.

Friday – I met with my covenant group (UM ministers who study and share together in a small group) in Florence. We continued our discussion about the church of the 21st century and learning about the different approaches for shaping the life our congregations. The most effective churches seem to be where there is a careful, ongoing process of discernment by the congregation of its strengths and weaknesses in relation to who they are and need to be. This becomes the basis for congregational planning. There are a number of good models for this kind of assessment. I would love to see us use such a model and develop a good overall plan for First UMC. Although well meaning, we need to be careful of not following the loudest voice or a personal agenda. Together, we need to create a working strategy for the 21st century that involves both ministries and facilities.

Saturday – What another beautiful day! Thank you, God, for your creation. I need to use the gift of today to work on a sermon for May 8. Let this be a labor that bears fruit.

4-H

One of the more formative experiences in my life came through my participation in 4-H. It was a rite of passage in my home community to join a 4-H club at age 10. With the leadership of adult volunteers (primarily some of our mothers) we learned about sewing, cooking and other homemaking skills. In addition, the organizational structure taught us about leadership. We had officers and responsibilities in our local clubs. As teenagers we assisted with younger members, served as camp counselors and assumed major roles at the county fair. Because of my 4-H experience I was a home economics major at Ohio State University. I planned to be an extension agent and work with 4-H clubs. Instead of rural Ohio and Extension Service, I found myself in inner-city Dayton after graduation teaching welfare mothers homemaking skills. That's another part of my story.

To this day the 4-H pledge and motto come to mind and give direction to who I am.

PLEDGE I pledge my HEAD to clearer thinking
my HEART to greater loyalty
my HANDS to larger service
and my HEALTH to better living for my club, my community, my country and my world.

MOTTO
To make the best BETTER.

The Irises Are Blooming

I look forward to Eva's visit each year about this time. That is, I know all is well in my yard when the irises bloom. Eva was my grandmother and she loved her flowers. Most of them started as cuttings, seeds or bulbs from family and friends. In turn, she enjoyed passing these special plants to others. So, when we moved into our first home in Dayton, she gave me some of her irises. Each of our moves has included digging a few of the irises and taking them with us. These irises have become a metaphor for our moves...leaving a bit of ourselves, taking the remainder and establishing ourselves in a new location.

Ethan

Our youngest grandson, Ethan, has RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) and is in Children’s Hospital at Palmetto Richland in Columbia. Of course, we have had to check out the situation for ourselves. A five-week old baby attached to things is not a pleasant sight and this grandmother just wanted to hold him. Worried and tired parents needed to know that they are good parents and things like this just happen. In fact, I wanted to hold them, also. The good news is that Ethan is doing better and should go home in another day or so. Their three year old son, William(with an ear infection), is with his other grandparents. The past few weeks have been very hectic for Dan and Shannon and they are so anxious to establish some sense of normalcy with their family. How do I help this precious family during this time and not be the meddlesome mother/mother-in-law? I certainly can hold them close in prayer.

Sabbath Reflection

After being married, our first home was in Dayton, Ohio, the home of the Wright Brothers. However, Orville and Wilbur were before my time. The story I like to tell is that Erma Bombeck, Phil Donahue and I all started out in Dayton at the same time, the late 60’s. Erma wrote a weekly column in a suburban newspaper. The Dayton Daily News and national syndication came later. Phil was a radio personality and just beginning his talk show on a local TV channel. Of course, he also moved on to bigger and better things. Although my name is not recognized by the general public or my bank account has never looked like theirs, my life since Dayton has been interesting and rewarding, also. There certainly is a sense of richness when I reflect upon the fabric of the life that I am weaving and for this I give thanks. And, I trust that as Erma wrote in her last column:

“My deeds will be measured not by my youthful appearance, but by the concern
lines on my forehead. The laugh lines around my mouth and the chins from
seeing what can be done for those smaller than me or who have
fallen.”

Sabbath Time

I am enjoying a role reversal situation. We are at Lake Junaluska and Ron is attending a conference, Caring for God’s Creation. My plan was to enjoy walking around the lake and reading on the Lambuth Inn porch while he attended the sessions. Rainy weather has forced me indoors. However, comfortable reading areas with plenty of coffee available will make this day special. Wireless internet connection will allow me to do some blogging and e-mailing. The phone is on silent. In this quiet, peaceful environment, I truly sense Sabbath.