This blog is just for the sake of having ten blogs in a month. (Something I have not accomplished since last May.) I give you warning it is about nothing like the TV show Seinfield.
I supposed I could write about all my Advent busyness and activities. Still addressing Christmas cards. I will install the stamps tonight while I watch a Star Trek re-reun. Lots of shopping and wrapping to accomplish.
Or I would write about the weather. Did you know it snowed in Indiana yesterday? Yes, and my family grilled steak in the snow! ha ha!
Or bore you with my latest strange dream or this book idea I have. Or I could insert my latest submission to the Upper Room here in this blog (which they will no doubt refuse because they would not want to break their record of denials of my writing samples).
Instead I have written nothing... but at least passed some time and fulfilled my quirky desire to have ten blogs this month.
Here's to better blog material tomorrow or in December- which ever comes sooner!
At least you know I will be blogging on Christmas Eve throughout our four worship services... ah gotta love this season- great stuff!
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Turkey Day Re-Cap
Yes, you can get two turkey breasts in the same pan, roast them together and have enough leftovers for 3 days. We had a great Thanksgiving at our house- how about you?
Our guest list was short with only eight people representing all facets of our family...my side, his side etc. Diana was thrilled to learn that SHE was the only person at Thanksgiving who was technically related to everyone there! Makes her even more special.
We ate lots of food, drank good wine, and enjoyed some football and sunshine. Super conversations without any family fueds or fights.
Everyone at our table was asked to write down on a piece of paper what they were thankful for this year. Then, after we ate... we drew out a card and Diana tried to guess who the person was based on the list of thankful things. It was a hoot! And very special to hear what folks wrote down... faith, health, family, meaningful work, humor and even 'problems that grow character' were on the lists.
Now, we're preparing for the next holy day. I think I'll bring a little thankfulness into my Advent.
Our guest list was short with only eight people representing all facets of our family...my side, his side etc. Diana was thrilled to learn that SHE was the only person at Thanksgiving who was technically related to everyone there! Makes her even more special.
We ate lots of food, drank good wine, and enjoyed some football and sunshine. Super conversations without any family fueds or fights.
Everyone at our table was asked to write down on a piece of paper what they were thankful for this year. Then, after we ate... we drew out a card and Diana tried to guess who the person was based on the list of thankful things. It was a hoot! And very special to hear what folks wrote down... faith, health, family, meaningful work, humor and even 'problems that grow character' were on the lists.
Now, we're preparing for the next holy day. I think I'll bring a little thankfulness into my Advent.
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Thankfulness
I heard a quote recently that "Gratefulness is the heart and center of all prayer." I believe that to be true. So, in order to begin to pray I shall name my thankfulness. I am grateful...
What is on your list of gratitude this season of Thanksgiving?
- For health in body, mind and soul
- For my handsome, loving, funny, supportive and passionate husband
- For my amazingly funny, creative and loving daughter
- For my parents, parents-in-law, auntie, and extended family
- For the privilege of four decades of being grandparented by Betty Jo
- For intelligence, opportunity, education, and the ability to read
- For the gifts fo creative expression in writing, arts and music
- For my work community of fellow servants in Christ, laity within my congregation and all United Methodists in Indiana and elsewhere
- For the Good News of Jesus that never tires but invites me deeper and deeper into personal growth and the fruits of the Spirit
What is on your list of gratitude this season of Thanksgiving?
Friday, November 18, 2011
Early Christmas...
Yes, that is right- I am even earlier than last year!
Our annual Christmas letter is written and edited. Our Christmas photo card has been selected, printed and delivered. The weekend after Thanksgiving- I'll be addressing the envelopes!
Whee!
Our annual Christmas letter is written and edited. Our Christmas photo card has been selected, printed and delivered. The weekend after Thanksgiving- I'll be addressing the envelopes!
Whee!
Turkey Preparations
No, I am not the turkey. But, we're getting ready for the party.
Four stores and three towns later we found the blessed bird for us. Tomorrow the remainder of the shopping will happen. I am excited to host this year. Partly because I have more experience than the last time I ventured to host and because it will be a small gathering. Mostly I am thrilled to host because well... I just feel so darn grateful.
My in-laws are coming along with some food (she makes better stuffing than I). I hope my uncle brings the wine. I've got coloring pages for the kiddos and silly questions for each name place! The pies and breads will be my favorite though.
After we feast then the games will begin. Football on the TV. Bowling on the Wii. And Monopoly or Uno for the rest of us. A great day to be together and celebrate. Couldn't ask for anything more.... other than no turkey disasters!
I'll dedicate my wishbone to you.
Four stores and three towns later we found the blessed bird for us. Tomorrow the remainder of the shopping will happen. I am excited to host this year. Partly because I have more experience than the last time I ventured to host and because it will be a small gathering. Mostly I am thrilled to host because well... I just feel so darn grateful.
My in-laws are coming along with some food (she makes better stuffing than I). I hope my uncle brings the wine. I've got coloring pages for the kiddos and silly questions for each name place! The pies and breads will be my favorite though.
After we feast then the games will begin. Football on the TV. Bowling on the Wii. And Monopoly or Uno for the rest of us. A great day to be together and celebrate. Couldn't ask for anything more.... other than no turkey disasters!
I'll dedicate my wishbone to you.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Pastor's Report- Charge Conference 2011
God is not finished with the people of Calvary UMC. There are more ways for us to grow as a community of believers and more ministry for us to accomplish. Here is what was new in our work together on God’s behalf in 2011:
Faith risk for an 8% increase from 2010-2011 budget
Two Blood Drives which saved over 180 lives
AIM weekend at Mountain Top
Star Wars Bible Study for families
Star Trek Bible study for families
Increase in missions giving
Adults in mission (Leigh Shepherd and Charles Torwudzo)
New Handbell choir for students
Growth in participation in Prayer Ministry (am and pm groups)
Special Men’s Ministry events (i.e. Soups On ministry)
Closing of kindergarten, which created the opportunities for more preschool classes
Here is what remained excellent in 2011:
Confirmation program
Ministers of Visitation
Casserole Club
Youth ministries (small groups, missions and worship)
Involvement and presence in BBurg Ministerial Association
Mountain Top missionaries
Theatre for Christ presentation of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
Brown Bag children’s sermons
4th Grade Bible class for parents and 4th graders
SPARC
SPARC’lers
Fish Fry
Women’s Retreat (new record of 35 attendees)
Angel Tree gifts for children
Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes
Back to School Apple Tree gifts
Andy Griffith Show Bible study for families
Trunk or Treat event
Easter Egg Hunt event
DISCIPLE 2 class
Jesus in the Gospels class
Book Discussion group
Women’s Bible Study
Book & Breakfast study
All Adult SS classes
Worship (weekly)
Advent and Lent special events and activities)
A list only tells you some of what is going on around Calvary. We are a busy church… using our facility, volunteers and staff throughout the entire year; seven days a week. We continue to welcome new members and deepen the faith of our familiar members. We too have experienced the stresses and strains of our larger national economic issues and moreover we carry the cultural baggage of being a suburban bedroom community.
While the surge of visitors from our initial move into this facility on this property has slowed, we are facing new and different issues around our engagement of individuals, couples and families within the larger congregation. So many things in our lifestyle today ‘compete’ for the tithe and/or offering of time and presence. This struggle for engagement through time and presence is where many of our families (young and old) live daily and weekly. This is both an enlivening opportunity and a fierce challenge for Calvary’s mission and ministry.
Most importantly, ministry remains fun, exciting, imaginative and worthwhile!
Blessings,
Michelle
Faith risk for an 8% increase from 2010-2011 budget
Two Blood Drives which saved over 180 lives
AIM weekend at Mountain Top
Star Wars Bible Study for families
Star Trek Bible study for families
Increase in missions giving
Adults in mission (Leigh Shepherd and Charles Torwudzo)
New Handbell choir for students
Growth in participation in Prayer Ministry (am and pm groups)
Special Men’s Ministry events (i.e. Soups On ministry)
Closing of kindergarten, which created the opportunities for more preschool classes
Here is what remained excellent in 2011:
Confirmation program
Ministers of Visitation
Casserole Club
Youth ministries (small groups, missions and worship)
Involvement and presence in BBurg Ministerial Association
Mountain Top missionaries
Theatre for Christ presentation of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
Brown Bag children’s sermons
4th Grade Bible class for parents and 4th graders
SPARC
SPARC’lers
Fish Fry
Women’s Retreat (new record of 35 attendees)
Angel Tree gifts for children
Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes
Back to School Apple Tree gifts
Andy Griffith Show Bible study for families
Trunk or Treat event
Easter Egg Hunt event
DISCIPLE 2 class
Jesus in the Gospels class
Book Discussion group
Women’s Bible Study
Book & Breakfast study
All Adult SS classes
Worship (weekly)
Advent and Lent special events and activities)
A list only tells you some of what is going on around Calvary. We are a busy church… using our facility, volunteers and staff throughout the entire year; seven days a week. We continue to welcome new members and deepen the faith of our familiar members. We too have experienced the stresses and strains of our larger national economic issues and moreover we carry the cultural baggage of being a suburban bedroom community.
While the surge of visitors from our initial move into this facility on this property has slowed, we are facing new and different issues around our engagement of individuals, couples and families within the larger congregation. So many things in our lifestyle today ‘compete’ for the tithe and/or offering of time and presence. This struggle for engagement through time and presence is where many of our families (young and old) live daily and weekly. This is both an enlivening opportunity and a fierce challenge for Calvary’s mission and ministry.
Most importantly, ministry remains fun, exciting, imaginative and worthwhile!
Blessings,
Michelle
Monday, November 7, 2011
All Signed Up
As promised... here is my blog entry to prove that I have indeed signed up for the Mini-Marathon in May of 2012!
All I want for Christmas is a good pair of walking shoes, walking gear and some new tunes for my iPod!
Let the training begin.
At least in another six weeks...
All I want for Christmas is a good pair of walking shoes, walking gear and some new tunes for my iPod!
Let the training begin.
At least in another six weeks...
Moving & Staying: Itineracy Form
Even though my father was not in the military or the church, my family moved often enough that I attended eight different schools before graduating from high school. We lived in three different states during that time as well. I became very familiar with being the 'new kid' on the block and in the classroom. My last name at the time was very difficult to pronounce... and I am quite good at helping folks learn how to say it from five rows back.
As I look back upon my childhood, some of the moves I thought were fun and intriguing. Other moves I dreaded and made a fuss about to my parents.
I am sure there were aspects of the experiences that grew me as a person, made me what I am today and all that sort of good stuff. So, I find it intriguing that into this same sort of situation I made my way as an adult. Following God's lead into itinerate ministry as an ordained elder in the United Methodist Church. (No one to blame but me and God this time!)
But God has humor... because some times the spiritual growth challenge is to stay where you are and grow there. While Calvary is the second appointment I have served since finishing seminary, the bulk of my years in active ministry have been with this congregation. I am going on...(cough, cough) year twelve. (My tenure on staff has lasted longer than the average marriage in the USA. How sad?!)
My friends from seminary keep sending me their change of address cards... and ask, "Are you still there?" They too are fascinated. We, Methodists, are not known for our long term appointments mostly because of our history and our polity.
But in all honesty, over the past twelve years Calvary has grown and changed so dramatically that it seems as though I am in my 'fourth appointment' here. There were the years I first served here with Harold as our senior pastor at our Green Street location. Then what I call the "the middle years" that included Todd's leadership, my entrance into motherhood, our huge task of relocation and building, my renewal leave, and the 'surge' following the move into the new building. This middle section was so full that it was exhausting.
Now finally this third stage of my ministry has arrived with more subtle challenges and changes. The busynesss of transition and growth has passed (although we are still growing). It is just the raw newness has faded. We have more routine within our congregational life... and are dealing with different struggles and challenges.
When I reflect on all this, I become deeply grateful for the gift of my Renewal Leave. I truly believe that experience is one large reason my minstry has continued to be alive and fresh for as long as I have been appointed here. It is a gift that keeps on giving... to me and to Calvary. (Thank you Lilly Endowment for investing in the tenure of pastors so that congregations can reap the benefits for years to come.)
Many of my colleagues 'jump from appointment to appointment' as a way to 1) move up the ladder of success, or 2) find new excitement or challenges, or 3) because they are looking for a church which is willing to grow, or 4) finding the 'right church' to make the right fit. Sometimes the 'grass is greener' approach is a spiritual illusion that we chase. Other times our denomination transition clergy so much because they are lousy leaders and we just pass one mess onto another congregation without caring for the root problem. I am saddened by all this.
Often times it is most difficult to grow right where you are. (Think about how hard it is for your family to accept how you have grown and changed.) To deepen your rapport within a congregation and it's community takes a different skill set, sharpens other attitudes and behaviors, and simply inspires more prayer... it is a tremendous challenge.
And for me as a pastor and person of faith...staying in one place is a personal growth opportunity because of my itinerate childhood that I have yet to encounter until now.
I feel called and compelled to check the box on my Itineracy Form for another year at Calvary because it is the greater challenge and risk for me to grow. Ironic, isn't it?! And that's why I think God has a sense of humor about following/moving/itineracy/going where you are called.
As I look back upon my childhood, some of the moves I thought were fun and intriguing. Other moves I dreaded and made a fuss about to my parents.
I am sure there were aspects of the experiences that grew me as a person, made me what I am today and all that sort of good stuff. So, I find it intriguing that into this same sort of situation I made my way as an adult. Following God's lead into itinerate ministry as an ordained elder in the United Methodist Church. (No one to blame but me and God this time!)
But God has humor... because some times the spiritual growth challenge is to stay where you are and grow there. While Calvary is the second appointment I have served since finishing seminary, the bulk of my years in active ministry have been with this congregation. I am going on...(cough, cough) year twelve. (My tenure on staff has lasted longer than the average marriage in the USA. How sad?!)
My friends from seminary keep sending me their change of address cards... and ask, "Are you still there?" They too are fascinated. We, Methodists, are not known for our long term appointments mostly because of our history and our polity.
But in all honesty, over the past twelve years Calvary has grown and changed so dramatically that it seems as though I am in my 'fourth appointment' here. There were the years I first served here with Harold as our senior pastor at our Green Street location. Then what I call the "the middle years" that included Todd's leadership, my entrance into motherhood, our huge task of relocation and building, my renewal leave, and the 'surge' following the move into the new building. This middle section was so full that it was exhausting.
Now finally this third stage of my ministry has arrived with more subtle challenges and changes. The busynesss of transition and growth has passed (although we are still growing). It is just the raw newness has faded. We have more routine within our congregational life... and are dealing with different struggles and challenges.
When I reflect on all this, I become deeply grateful for the gift of my Renewal Leave. I truly believe that experience is one large reason my minstry has continued to be alive and fresh for as long as I have been appointed here. It is a gift that keeps on giving... to me and to Calvary. (Thank you Lilly Endowment for investing in the tenure of pastors so that congregations can reap the benefits for years to come.)
Many of my colleagues 'jump from appointment to appointment' as a way to 1) move up the ladder of success, or 2) find new excitement or challenges, or 3) because they are looking for a church which is willing to grow, or 4) finding the 'right church' to make the right fit. Sometimes the 'grass is greener' approach is a spiritual illusion that we chase. Other times our denomination transition clergy so much because they are lousy leaders and we just pass one mess onto another congregation without caring for the root problem. I am saddened by all this.
Often times it is most difficult to grow right where you are. (Think about how hard it is for your family to accept how you have grown and changed.) To deepen your rapport within a congregation and it's community takes a different skill set, sharpens other attitudes and behaviors, and simply inspires more prayer... it is a tremendous challenge.
And for me as a pastor and person of faith...staying in one place is a personal growth opportunity because of my itinerate childhood that I have yet to encounter until now.
I feel called and compelled to check the box on my Itineracy Form for another year at Calvary because it is the greater challenge and risk for me to grow. Ironic, isn't it?! And that's why I think God has a sense of humor about following/moving/itineracy/going where you are called.
Thursday, November 3, 2011
End of the Year/New Year Pre-Panic
In order to make the holidays more holy and festive I have decided to do all of my new year's panic and freak out early. I can be organized about everything- so why not schedule my panic! Far more efficient that way!
This week I purchased a new (floral design) 2012 Personal Calendar. Ever since the purchase my pen has been to paper filing in the boxes with piano recitals, dance recitals, church events, confirmation, holidays, and birthdays. This means I am planning and organizing the 2012 confirmation class along with Lent and Easter. Why I have even looked into next summer regarding our family plans along with Vacation Bible School!
And I can feel the panic level rising.
Especially when the boss-man and I chatted about volume two of our book series. (We have our goal of the end of May.) Ack! The blood pressure is rising already! And to be honest so is the adreline and excitment of new adventures. A new year does contain a kind of freshness like new fallen snow or the beauty of an uncut cake.
But all this leaning into the new year... does have me off balance. So this afternoon I need to take care of things for today- like the mom's never ending task of homework and piano practicing. Or the dishes. Or paying the bills.
Mostly, I am tremendously grateful for the life I am able to lead, the love I am able to give, and the joy of serving a Loving, Living Lord in this year and next!
This week I purchased a new (floral design) 2012 Personal Calendar. Ever since the purchase my pen has been to paper filing in the boxes with piano recitals, dance recitals, church events, confirmation, holidays, and birthdays. This means I am planning and organizing the 2012 confirmation class along with Lent and Easter. Why I have even looked into next summer regarding our family plans along with Vacation Bible School!
And I can feel the panic level rising.
Especially when the boss-man and I chatted about volume two of our book series. (We have our goal of the end of May.) Ack! The blood pressure is rising already! And to be honest so is the adreline and excitment of new adventures. A new year does contain a kind of freshness like new fallen snow or the beauty of an uncut cake.
But all this leaning into the new year... does have me off balance. So this afternoon I need to take care of things for today- like the mom's never ending task of homework and piano practicing. Or the dishes. Or paying the bills.
Mostly, I am tremendously grateful for the life I am able to lead, the love I am able to give, and the joy of serving a Loving, Living Lord in this year and next!
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
All Saints Day Challenge
Blessed All Saints day to you!
After all the candy and mayhem of yesterday, we're supposed to ponder our inner saintliness today. Or at least give thanks for the Saints who have gone before us. Mostly, I am coming down off of my sugar high from yesterday and pondering a new goal for 2012.
Today, is a perfect day for pondering. Bright blue sky and a shorter list of To Do items make this afternoon a terrific time to fill you in on my new adventure.
I am getting ready, which is amazing to think about because I can be such a couch potato and non-athletic person, to sign up for walking the Mini-Marathon in Indianapolis on May 5th of 2012. Yep, I am getting off the couch and start training.
A week or so ago I was thinking about turing 40 and this year of deaths within my family. The thought popped into my mind that a physically challenging goal is what I need to shake the cobwebs from my mind and spirit. (and maybe stay fit so that I can be around awhile for my family.)
Hey- if my childhood friend can parasail on her own, then, by golly I can walk 13 miles in a day! My time may be lousy, but I can walk that much!
So here goes nothing because I have now told more than 5 people. I am committed as they say.
But my first hurdle is signing up for the event.
I'll blog again when that is accomplished.
After all the candy and mayhem of yesterday, we're supposed to ponder our inner saintliness today. Or at least give thanks for the Saints who have gone before us. Mostly, I am coming down off of my sugar high from yesterday and pondering a new goal for 2012.
Today, is a perfect day for pondering. Bright blue sky and a shorter list of To Do items make this afternoon a terrific time to fill you in on my new adventure.
I am getting ready, which is amazing to think about because I can be such a couch potato and non-athletic person, to sign up for walking the Mini-Marathon in Indianapolis on May 5th of 2012. Yep, I am getting off the couch and start training.
A week or so ago I was thinking about turing 40 and this year of deaths within my family. The thought popped into my mind that a physically challenging goal is what I need to shake the cobwebs from my mind and spirit. (and maybe stay fit so that I can be around awhile for my family.)
Hey- if my childhood friend can parasail on her own, then, by golly I can walk 13 miles in a day! My time may be lousy, but I can walk that much!
So here goes nothing because I have now told more than 5 people. I am committed as they say.
But my first hurdle is signing up for the event.
I'll blog again when that is accomplished.
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