Tag Archives: renewal

10 years later… (well, 24 years later)

In the summer of 2000, I had just finished high school. As I did every year, I went to church camp at Lake Louise in Boyne Falls Michigan. That summer however is burned into my heart memory. That was the summer I heard my call to ordained ministry. I grew up a United Methodist! TheContinue reading “10 years later… (well, 24 years later)”

A New Journey Begins

When I met my spouse, one of the first things we talked about was starting a family. He comes from a small family, no 1st cousins. I come from a slightly larger family, having relationships with my cousins from many generations. We married in December of 2006. We decided to start trying for our familyContinue reading “A New Journey Begins”

Peace

Peace: the absence of chaos; the feeling of serenity; the freedom from fear, worry, stress Peace: the pastor on renewal leave It’s been about 6 weeks since I last did any “work.” Mind you, I was working on a special project during my renewal leave for our church leadership and I had some commitments thatContinue reading “Peace”

All Roads Lead to New Life

Back in 2003-2004, I was a student at Central Michigan University. I was studying religion and gerontology, and preparing to head to seminary in the fall of 2004. I began the ordination process back in 2000, and had my annual meetings not only with the church but also with the district committee on ordained ministry.Continue reading “All Roads Lead to New Life”

Grace Filled Moments

When I felt called to this renewal leave, there were a bunch of things I wanted to do. As it took shape, I was preparing for surgery and rest rather than projects and spiritual care. In the weeks leading up to my leave, I got word that my hysterectomy was going to be postponed. (Wow,Continue reading “Grace Filled Moments”

Sunday With My Congregation

All during COVID, Sunday morning traditions have been in upheaval. Pre-Covid, I would wake early and get to the church about 7:30am in time for our 8am worship service. My rituals included unlocking all the doors, making sure the heat or AC was on, and making sure the lights were on and ready to greetContinue reading “Sunday With My Congregation”