Transitions: From Here to There

I know for a lot of us we have spent the past few months reflecting on all that God has done through the ministry of Brian and Diane. And even more dreading having to say goodbye to a really good pastor who has influenced us all in very good ways.

 I am no doubt going to miss Brian. He is not only my colleague but someone I now call a very good friend. All to say transitions are tough. I think of the disciples were less than enthusiastic that their friend and leader (Jesus) kept saying that he would endure the cross and die. But we all know the story that lays on the other side of the Crucifixion. The resurrection in so many ways represents the foundation of our faith.

As I reflect on my short career in the United Methodist Church (I added it up... I have worked a total of 8 years on staff at a church... young I know)... I have been blessed by so many pastors that have spoken great things in to my life and have helped shape who I am. Not just one pastor but many.

I am excited about this new journey. I believe with all my heart that God is at work. God is at work in this community of faith. And it doesn't take long to see it. And I am excited to see how God works through Pastor Brunson and his wife Doris.

I am looking forward to this journey alongside you.

Please be praying for Brian and Diane as they transition in to their new appointment. And pray for Pastor Brunson and Doris as they get settled in here at Pleasant Green.

Blessings!

The WHY behind WHAT we do.

Summer is here! Well not officially but almost. We will be diving in to a new series during our Youth Summer Fun Day's. We will be taking our show on the road. Our theme will be "Why We Do What We Do." There is no doubt in my mind that a lot of us don't know the WHY behind the WHAT WE DO. Why do we pass the peace? Why do we take communion? Why do we baptize babies? Why do we take an offering? Why do we pray prayers? WHY do I keep checking my watch to see when we get out of this thing?!

We call all these things that we do during the service on Sunday morning liturgy. And this word liturgy literally means the "work of the people." Liturgy in many ways represents the rhythm to which our lives should be shaped around. Liturgy will be boring if it has no connection to how we live our lives from Monday to Saturday.

So as mutual wanders as parents, leaders, and youth we hope to find our way back to "Why We Do What We Do." And my hope is that we will find that true liturgy offers us a picture of the life we are called in to and that we are to pursue.

Here are some of the places we will be going! 
1. The WHY behind Communion
2. The WHY behind Baptism (@poolparty)
3. The WHY behind throwing the Peace
4. The WHY behind that Confession & Creed
5. The WHY behind that LONG sermon
6. The WHY behind the offering (more than money)