we made it back

We have made it back to reality in Esdaile...it was an awesome adventure. Holden was pounded with snow and we had an awesome time with the Ruen's. Love those guys!

I had a wonderful time praying, reading, hanging out and worshipping. I read The Evangelizing Church. I took 19 pages of notes on the book and really appreciated it from the perspective of a theologian and recent seminary graduate. I am really thinking through how this will translate into parish life, but I got really excited reading it and I appreciate a lot that was said in the book. Dr. J Paul Rajashekar from Philly is awesome! So, if anyone wants to start a study over blogger, etc...and talk through a chapter a week or so let me know. I think there was some talk about that at convo.

The placement of seniors happened on Tuesday. I remember that time last year. That was one heck of a year with tons of stress, eh? I don't want to go back there for anything.

I have left some black streaks on the road after arriving home. With newsletter, bulletin, sermon, ash wednesday and lent on the horizon (plus a friends funeral) this week will be a blur. I would covet your prayers. Blessings to each of you on your preparation in any way for Lent. Paz

great timing...

We are off on Thursday for the wild west and a nice adventure to Holden. This seems to be perfect timing as I am not completely fried, but yet really feel the need to do some reflecting, conversing and planning after a crazy January. I can already feel a deep sense of joy as I realize I am not 'on' Sunday for a sermon, creativity, etc... Thankfully Jo Q. is covering that one! How wonderful.

Regarding the cottage meetings, without fail, when the topic comes up individuals ask if their group said the same thing as other groups. They are excited to hear what was heard. The neat thing is that what I heard was encouraging. It showed a break from past hangups they have had in the last decade. My predecessor had a wonderful ministry here of forming relationships, theological integrity and consistency.

Anyone have experience with 'Frogs without Legs can't hear' yet? It appears that they have a great series available that goes along with the book. My understanding is that it addresses spiritual maturity and the family level. It sounds wonderful.

Go West Young Man...Paz