Wednesday, April 10, 2013

Peniel

I am participating in a class called "Peniel" where we read and discuss some of the great theologians of the ages. It started out with St. Augustine and we are currently reading St. Chrysostom. It is amazing how the ability to read the syntax of the ancient texts becomes dimmer the farther away from seminary I've grown. Peniel refers to the place where Jacob struggled with the angel and I truly feel myself struggling with some of these texts. Surprisingly, I find it exhilarating also. I have become tired of Bible Study books that show a video and want us to fill in the blanks, that are "miraculously" put on the screen for the participant. My thanks to the dreamers who put this challenging study together and are leading it. Now, where are the answers?? (just kidding folks)

Thursday, March 28, 2013

New Apppointment

I am moving to a new position in the Arkansas Conference starting in July. I will be the Associate Director at the Center for Clergy & Laity Excellence in Leadership. I am excited and nervous all bundled up together. It will be the first time in ten years that I have not been directly involved in pastoral ministry as a clergyperson and 16 years overall.

I am praying that I will make a difference in my new position just as I have always prayed to make a positive difference to the various churches that I have served. I will be a definite challenge but one that I am looking forward to meeting head on.