A Sheep's Eye View

2011-08-22T08:56:00.000-05:00

I'm amazed at how much time can pass between posts. As I mentioned in my last entry, life tends to get in the way. But, as I also shared, that can be a good thing.

It wasn't long after my spring semester ended that I found myself facing CPE--otherwise known as Clinical Pastoral Education. This unit, which I took as a summer intensive unit, is something required by my denomination as I seek ordination as an elder in the United Methodist Church. I knew that I would learn things about myself and ministry and found that I was constantly being asked to stretch, grow, reflect, and evaluate every aspect of my ministry and service to others. It took a lot of energy to complete and, while I'm so fortunate to have completed the program, I'm also glad to a have a little time to breathe.

What made the summer even more interesting was the reality of having been appointed by the bishop to pastor a church on July 1. So, in the middle of CPE madness, I found myself leading a new faith community, trying to figure out where everything was at, meeting all the new members of my church family, preparing messages, conducting meetings, and walking with those who were ill and those who were mourning the loss of their loved ones.

While I wouldn't recommend trying to do both at the same time, I found that the Lord blessed that time just the same. The things that I was learning about myself and my ministry were things that I was able to call upon immediately. I was being equipped for the journey and that journey was now!

I have a moment of respite now before the fall semester gets underway. How grateful I am for the programs, the people, and the places that help to shape me as one to be used by God to serve others. Great is His name and greatly to be praised!

Wow...that's embarrassing...but also good

2011-02-03T12:39:00.004-06:00

I can't believe that it's been this long since I've posted to this blog. It's not that I haven't wanted to wax poetic. It's more like I didn't have a great deal of time to do so.

My last semester was a doosy. I'm still not quite sure what overtook me but working on a plethora of papers certainly added to the fray. As soon as I finished the semester, I jumped right into holiday sermon preparations, CPE applications and various other proposals and projects.

I promised that I would take some time for myself and, well, here I am a few days away from the start of the new semester and it just hasn't happened. Part of that came as a result of the multitude of snow days (some of them understandable) that our girls had off from school. Part of that also came as a result of the demise and passing of one our cherished family pets. And, part of that came from the regular onslaught of appointments and studies that I've engaged in.

All to say that life does not stop when you are in seminary. It's a test of the will, of one's character and one's endurance. And, yet, the Bible always seems to have something to say about our human condition and God's ability to reach out and embrace us and journey with us. We find this in Paul's exhortation in Romans 5:2-5 where he noted that "we...boast in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us."

I am so grateful for the privilege of suffering for the cause of Christ. Even if it means that my public utterings on this blog don't occur as often as I'd like. My absence means that life is being lived...and that's a good thing!

And on the Third Day...

2010-09-03T16:32:00.000-05:00

...it was finished. Orientation, that is. Despite my having started classes at Eden this past spring, I'm still officially recognized as a first-year student for which I was awarded the pleasure of participating in three days of orientation. Some of the time was spent orienting the group to the mechanics of being a student (e.g., parking tags, insurance, library cards) for which I'd already been introduced and some of the time was spent in forming community and being oriented in our ability to think theologically.

I found the time to be meaningful in that I was introduced to individuals who will encourage me, challenge me, inspire me, and love me as I wrestle with what it means to become a leader in ministry. My prayer is that I, too, can be a source of support and encouragement.

I'm excited about what treasures await me this fall. God is so good!

Achieving the Right Balance?

2010-07-05T09:22:00.000-05:00

In my most recent post at goingtoseminary.com I reflect on how well (or not) I was able to balance all of the aspect of my life -- my faith walk, my family, my schoolwork and me. To see how I did, please visit my post entitled, "The Balancing Act".

Prisms of Light--Prisms of Thought

2010-06-27T23:12:00.002-05:00

As part of my last post entitled Prisms of Thought at GoingToSeminary.com, I shared about my experiences at Eden during my first semester...specifically as it related to the great diversity of thought and action that existed there. I'll admit that at first I was a little put off by the wide range of thought and interpretation. In time, however, I began to appreciate it. In one sense, it helped me to understand the breadth of beliefs surrounding our Christian faith. In another sense, it has made me understand (and wrestle with) what it is that I believe to be true. I invite you to read the article and consider for yourself the words of John Wesley who wrote...

“But although a difference in opinions or modes of worship may prevent an entire external union, yet need it prevent our union in affection? Though we cannot think alike, may we not love alike? May we not be of one heart, though we are not of one opinion? Without all doubt, we may.“

Keeping up the Pace

2010-06-27T22:51:00.003-05:00

Okay, it's been a little bit since I've last blogged. But that's not to say that I haven't been busy.

After I finished my very first semester at Eden I did what any normal seminary student would do--I went back for more. My Spring classes finished on May 14 and I started in with a two-week summer intensive course on the 17th. It seems a lot of my fellow classmates had the same idea as the class I took had to me what looked like record enrollment.

Not wanting to lie fallow too long, I then left for the Illinois Great Rivers Annual Conference--my denomination's annual meeting. It was wonderful to meet up with a number of clergy and laity during this important time.

I also signed on a student worker at seminary so I immediately jumped into work there along with preparations for our first garage sale after having moved.

Sometimes I think of stepping back and just taking it easy...and there is great wisdom in that. Yet, I stand amazed at how God continues to orchestrate events, relationships, friendships and opportunities where I am able to grow even more in service to Him. It's so amazing. GOD is so amazing!

I Survived

2010-05-14T19:35:00.000-05:00

...my first semester, that is. It's been a hectic semester, filled with readings and writings and class dialogues. It has been one in which I've not slept near as much as I should, and spent far less time with the girls than I hoped. Yet, it's done and I am glad.

But, lest I get too accustomed to my one day of rest, I start in with a two-week summer intensive course on Monday. It will be interesting to see how that course goes.

In any event, I pray that I've done well and look forward to future semesters of learning and discovery.

Family Travels

2010-05-03T11:55:00.006-05:00

Today, the second blog submission to GoingToSeminary.com was posted. While my last post, Pregnant with Purpose, focused on my initial response to being at seminary, this newest writing, "When Your Family is Along for the Ride" chronicles my questions, concerns, ponderings and challenges in responding to God's call with a family in tow.

Has this been something you've encountered as well? If so, I'd love to hear from you!

Digging for Gold

2010-05-03T11:48:00.001-05:00

I recently ran across an article, entitled Mining Gold featured on WorkingPastor. In it, the author commented how many times sermons simply serve as gentle reminders to those walking in the faith when instead we should be digging deep and finding the gems hidden beneath. It's by going deep that we have the greatest opportunities to transform and be transformed.

"Follow" Me

2010-04-30T07:38:00.004-05:00

In mid-March I had an opportunity to submit a blog essay to goingtoseminary.com as part of a competition. It ends up that my essay was one of four selected. Per the guidelines, I'm to submit three more blog entries to be published once per month.

Goingtoseminary.com is a place for practical advice (e.g., finances, reading lists, juggling responsibilities) and observations from the viewpoint of seminarians.

To read my first post entitled "Pregnant with Purpose", follow this link.

Reading Week -- Um, Not Exactly

2010-04-02T17:41:00.016-05:00

Last week was Eden's "Reading Week" and presumably a time when we were to continue to reflect on our studies and our growth over the last few months. Having now emerged on the other side of Reading Week, I think it's been woefully misrepresented. I would think that "Writing Week" or "Lack of Sleep Week" might have been better characterizations of how I and many of my fellow seminarians spent our time.

I had two mid-term papers due--one on the use of exegetical methods on Matthew, Mark and Luke-Acts and the other on the impact of Judaism on Christianity. These came on the heels of another mid-term paper concerning church history up through the time of the Reformation that was due before break even started. In addition, I had another assessment paper to produce as well as a journal entry on Christian social ethics as it related to slavery and freedom in the time of Enlightenment. Lest I had too much time on my hands, I also had a sermon to prepare, a Lenten study lesson to review for teaching as well as regular readings and small group preparations to do for when I returned to class. I managed to do this while looking after two kids and two dogs while hubby was away during part of the week, not to mention the beginning of sport practices for my oldest daughter.

Truth is, I really enjoy the work I'm doing--I simply wish I had more time to savor it. I long for the day that I'll have more time and more opportunities to reflect on what I'm learning as well as to be able to sit down and discuss these emerging thoughts with others. Until that day...

Photo courtesy of:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/aaronjacobs/ / CC BY-SA 2.0

I'm Certifiable!

2010-03-07T21:06:00.002-06:00

I suppose that those of you who know me already suspected that I'm "certifiable"!

On Saturday, February 27, I met with my District Committee on Ministry to be evaluated for certification as a candidate for ordained ministry--a process that has taken nearly two years. I am pleased to say that I was certified. Praise God!

My requirements at this point are to continue my education (in my case, the pursuit of a Master of Divinity degree at seminary) and to meet annually with the committee. Ultimately, Lord willing, I will be ordained as an Elder in the United Methodist Church after I graduate nearly three years from now. I consider it both a blessing and a privilege.

Deep in Thought

2010-03-07T20:56:00.004-06:00

Okay, so it's been awhile since I've posted anything. Why, you ask? Oh, I imagine it has something to do with chapters and books and articles and readings and papers and workshops and...well, you get the idea. I'm deep in the throes of study and I'm loving it. As I suspected I'm enlarging my theological vocabulary, I'm being challenged on my beliefs, and I'm gaining a deep(er) appreciation for the history of the church. I'm also establishing new relationships with my fellow seminarians as we journey through this thing called MDiv (a.k.a., Master of Divinity).

Oh, by the way, here is a photo of the primary administration/classroom building on campus. Beautiful!

I've Arrived (at Seminary)

2010-01-27T11:00:00.003-06:00

Yesterday I was able to register for spring semester classes at Eden. Classes begin next week and I can hardly wait! I'll have courses in Biblical studies, Christian social ethics, church history and doctrine, and the impact of Judaism on Christianity.

I'm bound to learn a lot and grow much over these next few years. I pray that I will be open to hear what it is that God desires of me and be able to respond appropriately and lovingly.

Preparing the Way

2010-01-18T22:05:00.002-06:00

Well, it looks as if things are coming together. In order for me to attend morning classes at seminary, I needed to arrange for child care...no easy feat since we really don't know anyone in our community. We ended up finding a service, care.com, that provided us with several quality child care provider options.

Next Tuesday, I'll be attending orientation and registration for classes which will begin on February 1. I'm looking forward to the start of the semester and all the pearls of wisdom I'll acquire :). I'll also get squared away with parking tags, e-mail accounts, mailboxes, textbooks and other tools designed to get me launched on this journey.

I'm so excited!

It Won't Be Long Now...

2010-01-03T23:23:00.004-06:00

Well, classes will begin in less than a month. In the meantime, I need to get the girls back into the routine of school, need to find childcare for those times when my class schedule conflicts with the girl's school schedule, and bid farewell (for part of each week) to my husband as he begins his Spring teaching schedule.

I also need to finish preparations for my interview with the District Committee on Ministry in late February--the last step of three that moves me from a declared candidate to a certified candidate as recognized by the United Methodist Church. I'm also identifying scholarship and grant opportunities to help support my education which is particularly crucial considering I'm no longer gainfully employed.

Despite the level of activity and the newness of everything, we feel blessed. We've moved to a great town and are plugged into an exciting faith community. God is good!

The Journey Has Begun

2009-11-30T19:57:00.001-06:00

Well, our family is one (big) step closer to reality. We moved last weekend to a home that will allow me to commute a reasonable distance to seminary this Spring. My two girls (ages 5 and 7) started at their new school today and my husband began his commuting schedule this week as well. Many changes. But, I believe they are all good since they all support what it is that I believe God has called me to and what I believe He has in mind for my family.

Part of the whole process was saying "so long for now" to co-workers, neighbors, and our church family. It was wonderful, touching and sad at the same time. God certainly has blessed us with many wonderful acquaintances and friends. God is good and greatly to be praised!

Another Prayer Answered

2009-09-28T16:36:00.023-05:00

I received official word today that I've been accepted to seminary. I'm excited, thankful and grateful that I'll be able to journey alongside others who have experienced the call to ministry. May I remain ever mindful for Whom I'm doing this.

Photo courtesy of
http://www.flickr.com/photos/scuddr/ / CC BY-NC 2.0

An Adventurous Spirit

2009-09-27T22:30:00.002-05:00

Well, I'm definitely in transition. A decision was made to attend seminary onsite rather than online so we're looking to relocate to the St. Louis area (Illinois side) within the next few months. That means we've had to locate a new home and try to sell our current one. It means exiting from my current job and looking for another source of supplemental income while I attend school. It means getting the girls transitioned from their current school to a new one. And the list goes on.

I'm trying to remind myself that it's not all about the destination but also the journey. This transition gives me time, and my family time, to celebrate the friendships and memories that have been built so far as well as to anticipate the adventures that exist before us.

Isn't that true of our faith walk, too? We can express our thanks and gratitude for the many blessings that we have experienced over time, yet our eyes are set toward the future, the hope, and the love that is Jesus. What a great adventure!

Adoption

2009-08-22T14:38:00.000-05:00

One of the blogs that I subscribe to is entitled Going to Seminary. Recently there was a post by Ryan Burns that sought feedback on both the practical and theological perpsectives on adoption. It caused me to stop and reflect on how adoption has shaped my family and how I can better appreciate God's adoption of each of us into his family as joint heirs with Christ. The perspectives that I have gained through the adoption journey have been rich and I will share them in future posts.

Why Sheep?

2009-08-22T14:27:00.000-05:00

Okay, you might wonder why I selected sheep as the title for this blog. Sheep, by their nature, are followers and can often get into a lot of trouble if they don't pay attention to who or what they are following. Yet, when they are tended to by a shepherd, they know they are safe. They innately desire to know their shepherd's voice because they know the shepherd cares for them, loves them and will protect them with his life. This is no less true of my relationship with Jesus, the Good Shepherd. It is my desire to follow only him and to listen to what it is that he desires of me, particularly as I respond to God's call on my life into the ministry. As I contemplate the role of an undershepherd, I remain humbled yet excited about how he might impact the world through the gifts and graces that he has extended to me.