It's Christmas Eve, and already the Spirit is moving among us.  It does not seem to matter as you look around at all of the busyness that seems to be happening -- people are getting ready for Christmas, even in spite of the current economic state of things.  There is something special about today -- and there are children anxious for tomorrow morning to come.  Families everywhere will be gathering tonight, tomorrow, and the coming few days to celebrate together and enjoy the spirit of family.

However, human needs being as they are, I found myself involved in a family intervention situation last night that meant sharing my home with a teenager so there could be some cooling off time for a rather stressed out family.  Here it, Christmas Eve, and beneath the surface of life, there lies family strife, anger, hostility, and other things worse.  For some folks, they would ignore what is happening -- glossing over what is really going on and think other things and not be aware that there are people crying out for help.  So, we opened our home.  

This morning, when the dust had settled and there was some semblance of sleep between last night and this morning, we called a truce for three days with and for this family.  Your prayers are REALLY needed now.  I am asking you to join with me and asking special prayers for this family in need.  I prayed that the Lord would place His healing hand upon them and to watch over them during these three days.  My hope and prayer is that we can help them discover that an attitude change is necessary in order not just to survive, but to learn how to live in peace with each other.  

So, as we continue this day of Christmas Eve, and gather together for services everywhere, may we all remember that Christ came to offer peace ... and hope ...  and love.  My wish for all of you is to experience a blessed Christmas, and then offer to Him yourself as you make a difference in this world.

Take care, my friends.

Alan

It's Almost Here...

Advent is more than 2/3 through, and I feel as if I am tethered to the kitchen at home.  I am not trying to break any records, mind you, just being sure I can share the baked cookies with as many as I can.

The season of giving has grabbed me again as Barb and I try to figure how to help this small family: mother and son.  They barely are making it; and, the young son needs a winter coat -- groceries would be a good thing because then the mother would have enough money to at least buy something for her son for Christmas.  It sure brings it close to home when you make a choice between a present under the tree or food on the table.  I know.  I have been there in my life.  When I was about this boy's age, my parents informed me and my half-sister and brother that there wouldn't be much of a Christmas.  My Mom told me that maybe we could make some things that we could give.  So we did.  At the last few days before Christmas, food arrived and some presents for each of us kids came, too -- graciously provided by a scout troop.  But the making of a gift stuck with me, so that is why I make cookies and give them away.  In fact, some people like to buy the cookies I make to give to others!  The money raised goes right back into more ingredients.  The feeling I get by giving the cookies away is a special feeling I hold dear -- thanks to my Mom who told me she so enjoyed something I made rather than something I bought.  It has stayed with me until this day.

This great season, coupled with my coming back to work and the feelings that has unleashed have given me a whole new perspective about my life and witness.  Thanks be to God for all the good things that are happening.

So, make something for someone else -- see what you think.

Take care, my friends.

Alan

Transition Continues with Advent

My apologies for those who have been following the blog ... I had promised to write something each week; however, putting both feet on the ground really meant keeping pace with all the activities and events that have come my way since I am back at work.  

I sure picked a great time to come back to work!  Thanksgiving/Christmas and all that has been planned out thus far -- not to mention playing a catch-up game with what has happened with the youth groups and the church in general, has kept me very busy.  The Session has received my paper -- both sections.  Of course, there is a whole lot more to share, but 36 pages, single-typed, is probably as much as anyone could digest at one time!  The essence of what I wrote is played out in the first section: namely that the Ministry of Hospitality and the Ministry of Mission are key points for us to continue to work on and improve.  We have such a wonderful church with very caring people that make up the body.  That has been so evident across the years.  We, of course, have our days when we doubt that -- but is that not true in all families?  When you look at the larger picture, it becomes evident that we have a caring, benevolent congregation that works hard at helping others as well as caring for their own.  The ideas shared (second section of my paper) has some possibilities for us to seriously consider that are aimed at making what we do even better.  Lots of new things that may strengthen our congregation and its outreach to the community.

On the personal side: as I come to work each day, I have tried to discipline myself not to jump back into old habits.  I have made considerable effort to step back and let others be in charge.  For the most part, that is working.  With Dinner Theatre looming, I have purposefully placed more responsibility with the two co-producers from the youth group.  They need to be accountable or more than before; however, I also know that I cannot expect everything to be the same as before.  I gave them the tools to work with; the directors have had very good input in the discussions and decisions of who plays what part on stage for the program, and I believe we are off and running.  This year, we are pulling more people into the project than ever before.  We'll see what it's like as we venture into the new year... Dinner Theatre '09 is the first Friday and Saturday in March.

This week also means a cookie blitz of sorts -- that way, I will be able to keep up with the demand of cookies from various parts of the area!  Many events coming up; opportunities to share; some decorating at home; and, most importantly, my daughter Erin comes home this week which I so look forward to.  She and I have wonderful conversations about church life, her future, and what is happening in my life.  We also get to laugh and giggle over life issues and situations -- seeing the humor in some things which takes the all-too-seriousness away for a while.

I promise to be diligent in my writing. 

The transition continues. Take care, my friends. 

Alan

Back At The Helm

It was with a bit of nervousness and anxiety that I came back to work.  Don't get me wrong -- I was truly thankful to come back and see everyone again.  It's just that I so want to be able to continue some of the things I feel I need to be doing now, and not just go back to "everything as usual" status.  Things have changed.  I certainly have changed.  My hope is that as the days go on, I will be able to continue the discipline of being true to my calling and do what the church needs done.  I am so thankful for folks who have taken up all of the assorted things I used to be doing.  I hope they continue, or at least until we all can find someone who is able to carry those tasks on.  After all, the church is everyone, and I should not be doing some of those things when someone is able to carry those things out and be involved.

Thanksgiving is upon us, and it is time to remember how truly thankful we need to be for all of God's blessings.  This year has been a real blessing to me.  There are not strong enough words to use to illustrate how I feel about this last year.  I only know that I have been truly blessed.  Now, if we can get some of the ideas in my paper off the ground...

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving, and take care, my friends.

Alan

Now In California...

Dr. Dan and I are in Santa Barbara, California at a seminar presented by the Alban Institute on "Finishing Strong, Ending Well: Faithfully Completing a Ministry Career."  It has been so rewarding and enlightening for me, not to mention it validates a great deal of what I have been doing on this sabbatical.  There is a sense of completion coming on for me regarding this sabbatical.  I am pleased with what I have written, and feel prepared to share some new things at the church in a fashion that might bring about some good changes.  We are a very good church.  Our youth ministry is something we can be proud of; however, it is important to know and remember that we cannot remain stagnant -- and that we always consider what is important for ALL those young people we have the privilege to serve.

It's hard to imagine I will be coming back on board this coming Sunday!  I hope and pray that I can ease back in with everyone, and that we can give some serious consideration to some new roles I am asking to play in my work.  That is important -- not just for me -- but more importantly, for the church itself.

This California experience is capping off a wonderful, enlightening, spiritually uplifting, and life-changing three months of my life.  I am honored and humbled that the church would do what it has done in order for me to experience all of this.  I am indebted to so many people -- the committees, the teachers, the church staff, and a special word of thanks to all of the youth leaders who have been so faithful and dedicated.  (Just a reminder: we meet this Saturday evening (even through my jet lag!) at my house for dinner -- don't miss it, youth leaders!)  

The blog, as promised, will continue -- because I think it is important to see what transpires as the result of the sabbatical.  The story does not end at the end of this week.  The "road" still continues. 

Take care, my friends.

Alan

It's the Beginning of Transition

As I put finishing touches to a major paper on a Proposed Plan of Action, I keep discovering more things that need to be added.  Ugh!  In addition, I am making time to do some baking for Christmas (the annual Christmas Cookie Bake-Off is in full swing) because of the finishing week of my sabbatical will be spent in California at a seminar geared to help put focus on how to best serve the church as I retire in six years.  Whew!

This has been a remarkable journey for me, and I have learned a great deal about myself, my hopeful role in the church, and more ideas and thoughts about direction and focus for our church than I could have ever imagined.  I also know that coming back into the day-to-day operation of the church will be a bit strange at first.  However, I hope and pray that I can bring with me the experiences of this time away that can enhance our working together and bring about some great changes for our church.  In fact, I have asked the Education and Enrichment Committee to try to keep all the volunteers who are doing my work to stay in place for the time being as we wrestle with what my role needs to be in the future.  Obviously, the Personnel Committee and the Session are really the ones who will make that decision.  

There are several things I am trying to be sure take place: a disciplined time for reading.  This one is extremely important.  To keep up with all of the areas of ministry we cover as a church, this one needs to be happen.  Devoting specific time will be important, so that we can be current and even on the cutting edge in many areas.   Another thing is to set aside some definite time with Barbara.  If there has been anything taxing about the sabbatical, it has been the time away from Barb -- some of those times were pretty lengthy.  Date Night needs to happen with regularity, with nothing standing in the way.  One of the things I talk about in the Proposed Plan of Action deals with relationship-building.  Well, Barb and I need to continue having that happen -- even at our lengthy number of years we have been together!  Another area has to do with a continuing feeding through worship, prayer, and experiences that feed my soul.  I SO need that, and I believe will benefit everything that I do as a worker for Christ.

Finally, California-bound we are: Dr. Dan and I will be sharing this experience; and hopefully, we will be able to listen carefully, provide thought and ideas to the mix, and come away from this seminar we are attending with a better sense of direction for each of us as we can see the end of our careers in sight.  I dearly love my church, and want to be a better servant.  The sabbatical has provided time for me to think, to write, to dream, to now share some ways that all of that could happen.  I miss my colleagues in ministry at the office, I really miss seeing our youth of the church, and I also miss being with my friends who make up our church -- and am eager to be back amongst them again.  It has been strange -- not necessarily having to look at the calendar or the clock -- routines will have to change very soon!  That's O.K., I believe it is time.  

This blog has been a wonderful experience for me, and I hope and trust that anyone who has cared to read the postings has caught some insight on what I have experienced.  I believe it would be worth the time and effort to put some continuing transitions on here so that people will understand the journey just a little more.

Take care, my friends. 

Alan

Friday & Saturday: Group Publishing + Rocky Mountain National Park!

These past two days have been overwhelmingly fulfilling for me. 

Friday: I was not sure what to expect from Thom and Joani Schultz, the folks who head up and run Group Publishing.  We have been very good friends since the early 80's, and I was anxious to hear from them what is happening in the areas of children, youth, and family ministries.  As I entered the building, Thom had a special system rigged up so that the speakers came on and a crowd of people applauded long and hard!  Now, I knew I was in for something!!  In the reception area is this giant moose head mounted above the fireplace, that at the appropriate time, starts "talking" and moving its head welcoming me to Group.  Then, Thom appears through a door to give me a great big hug, and we proceeded to move to the Starbuck's area they have right in their building.  (Oh, yea!)   Joani, his wife, was there, and she too had to give a hug, and we took over one of the tables there.  After explaining all that each of us had been doing since we last saw each other, we proceeded to share ideas together. I talked about my sabbatical and things I discovered.  Thom and Joani shared with me that they had lined up a number of people each hour I was to be at Group -- talking and sharing with editors, marketing people, creative writers of curriculum, and more. Thom and Joani had a lunch meeting; so, I gave them their cookies promised, and they had some staff members treat me to a great lunch at Starbuck's -- they have a wonderful food menu at this one.  Then, Thom and Joani joined in again and we spent over three hours talking about their new development: Lifetree Cafe. This is about the best concept I have ever seen when it comes to reaching people -- even non-church folks. Based around conversations and relationships, this has the promise of being something valid we could do as a congregation.  I will be actually experiencing a session on Sunday evening.  It is still in prototype mode and being developed for something churches and others can do in their own communities.  They hope to have it ready soon.  Needless to say, it was a long yet fulfilling day, and I learned a great deal.

Saturday was my personal time to go to Estes Park, CO and Rocky Mountain National Park.  It was incredibly awesome, even though the wind was blowing at gusts near 50  miles an hour at times.  The sun was shining, and I happen to be at the right pace at the right time to see a herd of elk grazing, as well as that same herd start to chase a coyote out of the area.  Through the help of another photographer who had telephoto lenses, I was able to see that coyote up close. Wow!  

Probably the best time was spent at a small lake perched on a log bench with a breathtaking view in front of me, the wind whistling through the trees, and the wonder of God's presence around.  I felt totally at ease.  Some reading, praying, and thinking was all that was needed for those few hours.  On my way back through Big Thompson  Canyon, there was a number of big horn sheep descending off of the side of a rather steep cliff, so I stopped to enjoy them as well. 

So, between these past two days, I cannot imagine anything more fulfilling right now.  I have captured a few pictures of the experience; however, my mind has more memories of the experience than any pictures could share.  I am so thankful for having this opportunity to be able to be here and to have this as part of my sabbatical.

Take care, my friends.

Alan

On the Road Again ... Hello, Colorado - My Old Friend

It's a new day on the sabbatical, and outside my window is the wonderful vista of Colorado.  The flight was in the dark, and traveling north from Denver was uneventful -- in the dark -- means that today will be my first venture out in daylight to experience the rather crisp Colorado mountain air.  There is some snow here and there in Colorado, depending on the altitude (as well as in the eastern plains of the state).

There are several churches that I am visiting while I am here.  They both, from what I have read so far, do things a little differently than others.  I will be excited to see what that difference is, and if it is something we can use in our church.  I will also be hunting down a church to worship in this coming Sunday.  That is always an interesting experience -- that being a visitor -- just to see how I am treated.

Highlighting my visit here is meeting the publishers at Group Publishing.  Thom and Joani Schultz are very good friends for many years (since the mid 80's), so we will be sharing updates on our families as well as looking at some of the cutting edge things in children, youth, and family ministry.  In addition, they have a marvelous staff that I hope to talk to regarding each of the areas of ministry mentioned. This organization  looks at the broader perspectives in how to reach children, youth, and families, as well as keeping a good pulse on what is happening in ministry and what is working all across the country.  My hope is to tap into that knowledge some, enabling our church to utilize it to benefit our work and ministry together.  On the personal side, I had promised Thom and Joani a long time ago that I would bake cookies in their wonderful kitchen.  Well, as I thought about the items I really like to use that I would have to carry on the plane, some of the specialty ingredients that might be needed that I am sure I would not find here in Loveland, AND then factoring in the altitude in Colorado (affects baking a lot!), I decided to bake their favorites at home, and carry them with me on the plane.  Now that was an interesting experience: going through security with several tins of cookies!  I did get a smile and one person suggesting that they might have to share some of them!  It was O.K., though, and the cookies made it safely for delivery.

I also will be spending part of my Saturday here as a day devoted to prayer and meditation.  I decided to drive through Big Thompson Canyon to Estes Park, and into Rocky Mountain National Park.  I am hoping for some peaceful, quiet time and using the beauty of this magnificent park and its wildlife and the beauty of the fall colors as a setting for the day.  It promises to be enriching.

After Colorado comes a brief week, and then a final part of the sabbatical which will be spent with Dr. Dan (pastor of First Presb. in Greeneville) at a seminar sponsored by Alban Institute in Santa Barbara, CA.  The time there is an opportunity to put into perspective how to merge the onset of retirement of church staff  and preparing a church for the time beforehand and after.  So the next 6-8 years means we hope to have the church in a positive position for growth, stability, excitement in ministry and mission, and more.

I do miss being at work more now, and look forward at being at the church again.  I have a whole new perspective about ministry, and am anxious to see that played out as I return.  My hope and prayer is that many people will continue to share the work load, knowing they have the support, encouragement, and reliability of my being there. I would hope we can discover the things that are important now for our church, and free up some of my time to support and encourage these new things as they are presented to us through the Plan of Action being given to the Session as the result of this sabbatical experience.

Please keep me in your prayers -- I may be far from home, but I feel a part of Greeneville and First Presb. is with me all the time.

Take care, my friends.

Alan

 

Now It's a Matter of Approach

Took an ever-so-brief respite from the sabbatical agenda so that Barb and I could take a couple of days (actually one evening and a day) together.  With Columbus Day as a day off from school, Barb was free to do whatever.  Our friend, Jann from church, needed to get to Knoxville for an overnight stay and an early flight out; so, we piggy-backed by taking her down, having dinner together, and then we also stayed in the same hotel that evening.  Jann left at "O-dark-thirty" for DC, and Barb and I had a leisurely morning to get up, have some breakfast, and then meander over to Pigeon Forge to poke around. Didn't buy much (save for some chocolate that was on sale -- great to bak with!)

Now, it's being earnest in getting the Plan of Action rough draft completed so that I can have a few eyes look it over for corrections, additions, and such.  The fact of letting someone else see this has me excited, because there has been so much to share and no one to really share it with yet.  I didn't want to give it out piecemeal because so much of what I am sharing is predicated on the fact of two solid areas of understanding: the ministry of hospitality and the ministry of mission, that without explaining those with some specificity -- many of the ideas our church can try out won't have the same impact or meaning.  I also believe that my paper is by no means the end to all things or something that does not allow for more thinking -- in fact, I hope that my paper opens people's minds and makes them think of more possibilities that lie before us as a congregation.  I just hope my enthusiasm can spread and others become enthused to try some new and maybe even bold things.

I am trying to finish a book I am reading; the theme is on letting go.  Interesting book that is heightening my awareness of how I need to re-enter the working life at the church.  It is remarkable in the fact that so many people have stepped up to the plate and taken on many of the tasks I did while I was working.  My hope and prayer is that when I return, many of those tasks can continue under their leadership.  I probably was doing way too much, when in fact, others needed to be doing these things.  I would like to concentrate on several areas: leadership training, giving some quality time to the Senior High Leadership Core, talking to the Session and its committees about the Plan of Action paper, spending some quality time with each youth group and their leaders, plus begin to focus our attention to 2009 and any curriculum needs and changes necessary for all the age groups I oversee.

So that's where my thinking is on this wonderful October day (is it really Fall?)  I am trying my very best to make the most out of the time remaining.  

Take care, my friends.

Alan

It Ain't Writer's Block!

Boy!  When you begin to decipher all of the information shared by at least 29 churches, plus what was shared in Church Educators groups, and the myriad of advice and suggestions from seminary professors, it produces a great deal of information not only to be logged, but then there is making the decision of what is useful as I shape out what is being termed a "Plan of Action" -- something the church can wrestle with in putting some focus on what could happen over the next few years.  As I unfold all of this information and put it into categories for easier understanding, I get very excited about the possibilities.  My hope and prayer is that we actually try out many of these ideas to see if they are the things that will help us grow -- not only in our personal faith, but even in our numbers.  Perhaps this will be a turning point for us. I do know that through Christ all things are possible!

It was a very slow and dismal Saturday as Barb and I  made an attempt at a yard sale.  The weather was great, but I am now convinced that between all of the community events happening in the region, plus the state of the economy, there were not too many people interested in yard sale shopping.  We decided to pack it up, and wait until spring.  Hopefully, we will do better then.  Erin's expenses in seminary still needs to be paid down, and we have a ways to go.  Here she is at the end of her schooling, and one more semester to go.  I sure hope we can be of help to her.

I have been using some of my time reading, and the weather has been most cooperative.  I so enjoy sitting outdoors to read.  There is just something about that.  Finding a relatively quiet place sure helps with it.  Much of my reading has to do with church-related matters; however, I also have a couple of books for self-reflection and thought.  They have been inspirational to me as I continue this sabbatical.  It has put a lot of things in perspective for me, for which I am most grateful.

Did the contemporary service at Asbury one Sunday -- interesting.  Their attendance was down because many families were visiting colleges (they said), so I may pop back in there one more time before Sundays are not available again.  I am also looking forward to the contemporary service our youth are doing Sunday, November 16th.  At least, I did here several say before I left that probably by that point they would have the kinks worked out since they will have had several prior to November.

Well, on to more reading and writing.

Take care, my friends.

Alan 

The Half-Way Point

It is something else -- being at the half-way point.  Probably the most significant half-way point in my recent memory was when I turned fifty years old.  My key phrase then was I was "half-way to one hundred!" (That's how I got through what would have been otherwise a painfully turning point in life.  And for those who are thinking age jokes -- don't go there!)  

The half-way point for this sabbatical is one that now helps me to focus on several things: one is to take the data I have collected so far over the first half, add to it the additional thoughts and ideas that are pertinent, relevant, and thoughtful, and put it all into some format for understanding by others.  Now that is not an easy task!  There is SOOOO much that it has taken a while just to enter it all into my computer; plus, there is more that has been quite relevant from my recent readings of books and periodicals suggested to me along the way.  I have to give a lot of credit to several people: Rodger Nishioka, a professor at Columbia Seminary, and to Forrest Palmer -- an associate executive Presbyter in Atlanta.  Both have inspired my thinking a great deal.  There have been others, too.  Lib Caldwell, professor of education at McCormick Seminary, and to the myriad of DCEs and pastors + members of the 29 churches I have visited thus far. so the writing moves on.  

As for some relaxation, the other point of this time away: this is the week of a yard sale coming up at our house.  Now I know that sounds strange and how in the world that could be at all relaxing, but seeing the idea of a cleaner basement as the result of said yard sale makes me feel real good; plus, the funds accrued will be added to what Erin needs to finish her final year in seminary.  We are still a ways away from what is actually needed, so every dollar will help!   Most things for the yard sale have been priced; now it is just a matter of finishing up, having the sale, getting rid of the rest, and see my way clear to create some space -- just in time for the annual cookie bake-off!  Speaking of which, I have begun gathering non-perishable items for the baking process.  I thought I heard a quiet sigh from Barb -- seeing that I will be taking over the kitchen in the evenings in the not-too-distant future.  For those who were worried that the sabbatical would interrupt or derail the Christmas cookie deluge, no fear.  It will happen, Lord be willing.

The changing of the season and the falling temperatures means I either bundle up when I want to read in a park, or find an inside location that won't put me to sleep.  I have so enjoyed the time outside reading, and it only enhances my interest in finishing a book plus enjoy a wonderful breeze, listen to nature's music, and take in the quietness that only space like that provides.

For those keeping up on my travels, I will be heading to Colorado later this month.  Loveland, CO -- north of Denver, will provide a few more churches to add to my research; however, several people through Group Publishing are at the top of my list of things to do and people to see.  I am so looking forward to talking to them about what is happening in Christian Education these days, and hopefully gather some new insights and perhaps additional resources in my quest to have a very good grasp on the direction and focus of that area in our church.  I really do hope the church folks at First Presb. will take seriously the challenges that lie ahead of us and would be open to some new things we can do as a church.  I am so excited about the possibilities.  

By the way, the mocha at Cafe Mo-Jo's is pretty good!  And they have free wi-fi, too.

Take care, my friends.

Alan    

Greeneville and Environs

As many would attest, it always feels good to sleep in your own bed.  That certainly is my case. However, what has transpired since I returned is a sense of needing to discipline my time to keep up with the mountain of data and ideas that was gathered in the churches visited, plus the conversations with seminary professors as well as others in the field of Christian Education  On top of that, several seminary professors recommended a couple of books, so I have begun reading in earnest--nice to actually have some daytime reading time!  I also am very glad to have taken photos of the churches I visited -- the ways they have decorated children and youth rooms, sanctuary layouts, plus the myriad of banners and other ways they use to enhance the aliveness of their churches.  As I went through each church, I kept thinking about our church back home in Greeneville, and how much potential we have in making the place even more alive and vibrant just with some of the ideas I saw along my journey.

As I said earlier, I have begun doing some writing and placing some worthy ideas down in hopes that some Plan of Action might take place that would really move us as a congregation in a good direction for the future.  I certainly am convinced that a much larger audience needs to be a part of the hearing of what I have to share -- my hope is that we can discover the time and place for that to happen in order to best utilize the efforts of a thinking and doing congregation such as ours.  There are so many talents -- some of them hidden -- in our congregation that I believe would be of great benefit for our church.  Hopefully, we will find a way to discover these and then work out a way for them to actually be used.  I hope to excite as many people as I can to the things I learned so that they can begin to feel like I do about what our church can be doing.

It was wonderful to see so many people at the church's Block Party this past Saturday.  Dr. Dan told me that the count was 140 people!  Wow - that is so exciting.  It was also good to see a lot of the youth in attendance -- they all looked like they were having lots of fun together.

Thanks to those who reminded me of my birthday yesterday.  Barb and I took a quick trip to the Olive Garden for dinner, and then a look through Barnes and Noble before returning home. I must say that birthdays are becoming quieter and quieter as one gets older and older.... enough of that kind of talk!!!

For the time being, I have a few churches to visit yet - in the Asheville, NC area and west of Knoxville, and perhaps in the Abingdon Presbytery in the western part of Virginia.  Most of my time will be spent working through the materials I have, reading, and continuing to lay out a format of the data with some solid, unique ideas and programs for our church to not only ponder, but hopefully implement some of them.  Rest assured I will try to keep up with my blog as well as e-mails and Facebook notes as they come.  I am heartened to know that there are more people reading my blogs -- there is no way to know if my blog is being read or if anyone is paying any attention.  Nothing earth-shattering being written -- it's just good to know there are those who care.

Take care, my friends.

Alan  

On to Spartanburg, South Carolina

It has been quite a journey!  The churches visited in Atlanta have some rather incredible things going on, and I am certain that the ideas I bring back will be useful for us as we determine some good things that could happen in our own church.

I have begun in earnest some writing of my experience, with some emphasis in how a Proposed Plan of Action might be something not only the Session may consider, but hopefully to open the whole entire thing to as many in the church that are interested.  I will need to talk to the Session regarding this, and I do know that the staff would play a crucial role in it as well.

Taking care of myself: yes .  I have become a coffeehouse junkie (at least in Atlanta.)  The Dancing Goats Coffee establishment saw me as a "regular" as I plugged in my laptop and joined over two dozen others with their cup of "java" and their keyboards either floating on their laps or the treasured tables provided for a few.  Time went by incredibly fast when I was there.  I was so involved in what I was writing, trying to remember what I wanted to say and typing it as fast as I could.

There are some wonderful, eclectic places to eat in Decatur, GA.  It was also interesting to meet old friends at Columbia Seminary; and, Erin and I did a late night run for some hot doughnuts (the hot red light's on at 9:30 pm -- and we made record time from Krispie Kreme and back to the seminary.  Erin's friends were quite thrilled to have some -- there was even one of her friends who said all I had to do was leave some in the hallway and she would be able to detect them in the building!  So, some poor seminary students had a treat!

I am now in Spartanburg, SC.  I had a good visit with a church this morning, and a wonderful lunch meeting with a number of church educators from the Presbtery in Greenville, SC.  Their theme for the meeting was to share what we do to help ourselves - what are we doing to feed our souls, and what resources are working for us.  How eye-opening!  It was also fun to meet some folks who have attended the Church Educators Conferences that I attend -- you just do not realize there are some kindred spirits at that meeting that live that close when there are over 1,000 people attending like me!  I have some faces to remember now, and hope to see them there at the end of January.

I have made the decision to cut this part of my trip a little shorter. I am ready to be home for a little while.  I am also planning to visit some churches in Virginia and over the mountains in North Carolina -- almost all of these will be day trips, and that should round out my fact-gathering experience.  Besides, Barb tells me that the grass needs cut, and there might be a few other things on the "honey-do" list.  AND -- the season of my birthday has approached, and I want to share that time with Barb.

So, before dinner, the outdoor jacuzzi felt good; dinner at a "down-home cookin'" establishment rounded out this day.  I will be spending some time entering the data from today, and then going to bed with a book in my hand....

Take care, my friends,

Alan  

It's Atlanta Now

I could tell I was nearing Atlanta when the traffic began to go speedily down the highway and then there was a choice of multiple lanes to drive in!  There are parts of this city I remember well - having been here numerous times.

I visited a church yesterday that had no idea I was coming. I was a visitor.  They were installing their new associate pastor, so the service was a bit longer than normal.  The highlight for me was the lack of warmth and welcome that came from being in this church -- which is about our size.  They have several entrances into the sanctuary -- however, there really wasn't anyone in place until about 8 minutes before the service started.  As in a previous situation, after the service, several people approach me (those who I was nearest), to compliment me on my singing voice.  One asked me if I could sing in the choir!  I politely told them it would be a long commute!

Erin and I got to spend the afternoon together.  She had never been to the new Coca-Cola exhibit, so that's what we did.  Afterwards, we did some people-watching at Olympic Park. Quite interesting.

This morning I had a pleasant and informative conversation with Forrest Palmer, an associate Executive in the Atlanta Presbytery.  He shared with me some interesting resources as well as we both had opportunity to talk about what is happening in churches these days.  My hope is that the leads he gave me will pan out -- he spoke of several churches that would be interesting to see and talk to their staff.

This afternoon, I am on the Columbia Seminary campus to spend some time with several professors as well as an old friend from seminary days who is Dean of the seminary here: John White.

I am beginning to long for the time to start some writing of the adventures I have been on. There is so much to share and so much that we can be doing as a church -- mostly improvements on what we are currently doing.

Take care, my friends.

Alan

Charlotte Experiences (Part 2)

Charlotte has been quite an experience.  I have to say that the churches I have visited were quite hospitable, and I am convinced that southern hospitality is certainly at play here.  Each church has been quite open and candid about what they do, and sometimes even tell me about things they wish they could do better.  As the conversations continue, though, the folks I interview begin to take pride in what they are doing.  It makes me continue to think about what we do at our church -- and if I interviewed myself (now there's a weird thought!), I probably would be feeling the same thing the people I have interviewed -- and would then also feel that there are some things we are doing that are very good for the life of our church.  There is always room for improvement.  I hope that what I am discovering will help that improvement -- we are a good church, and we have great potential for new and wonderful things. 

I have been so taken by the wonderful banners that these churches use as part of their worship experience.  The people who created them are quite gifted, and have given their churches a great gift for years to come.

I had some time Friday afternoon, so I went to visit the Billy Graham Library.  As you pull up, it's a cross between a Disney-esque event and a simple home and barn.  The tell-tale sign is the incredibly huge glass cross imbedded in the side of the barn, and you enter through that glass (smaller glass doors as part of the larger glass cross) and begin a history tour of the life of Billy Graham.  At first, I thought it was going to be cheesy, but as I continued through, the presentations became quite interesting and inspirational.  Although I know he was never interested in notoriety or fame, he did have (and continues to have) a powerful influence on leaders of this country and others around the world, not to mention a huge number of regular ordinary people. I remembered the several times I heard him speak -- once when I was in my youth group - 7th grade, I believe - and then when I was living in Chicago, where folks from my church went to hear him at his crusade several times.  At the end of the tour of the Library, I was humbled some, and I will remember this experience.

It is time to pack up and make my way to Atlanta.  I am quite sensitive to the use of gas as the hurricane we are experiencing along the gulf has created a panic, of sorts. On top of that, Charlotte has a lot of fog this morning, so I will be careful along the way.  Atlanta has a number of churches to visit, and I also have a number of people to see at Columbia Seminary and at the Atlanta Presbytery.  For the most part, all of those places are close to where I am going to stay. I am also looking forward to eating again at Mary Mac's - a wonderful place we took the youth group from Greeneville while we were there a few years ago on a work camp.

I am also now beginning to think about ways to disseminate all of this material I have gathered, not to mention how it might impact the life, mission, and ministry of our church.  There is SO much information -- however there are some common things discovered along the way, and those things, for me, are most likely the important areas I believe our church needs to concentrate on.  Also, some new ideas for programming and other things that will benefit our church.  And for those who are asking -- are you relaxing?  Yes ... I am.  I don't forget to take care of myself. So thanks for asking (I can hear some of you!) 

Take care, my friends.

Alan 

Charlotte Churches and Stuff (Part 1)

Today has been a wonderful chance to see some "southern" churches in action, and I was not disappointed. The churches I visited today have been most hospitable, and as I look back at them, there are definitely different styles of ministry happening.  Catching my eye were loads of artwork, posters, etc. that seem to cover the right places in the churches I visited.  I plan to research some of the sources of the banners and posters and see if there is something we can use to help our walls, stairwells, etc.  The color and message of these posters and banners add so much light and life to otherwise drab spaces.  One of the things I noted at one church is that there is someone who actually changes out the posters and banners periodically -- that way, there is something fresh to catch your eye as well as give you a thought to think about.

Of course, the weather here has been a bit fickle - can't decide whether it wants to rain our not ... pretty foggy and gloomy in parts of the city.  The accommodations are very nice -- and I feel like I am being pampered some; no, I won't get too used to it ... it's just nice to sleep in a comfortable bed with all sorts of pillows!

I brought several books that I have started to read, and for one reason or another, I never finished. Figured some of these evenings will be a good time to finish them up.  

Tomorrow brings more churches and several places to tour.  Hope all is well with everyone back home.

Take care, my friends.

Alan

The Southern Trip Begins

The Southern tour begins with Charlotte.  It was quite an eventful trip here -- beautiful ride through Tennessee; however, as I was traveling in North Carolina - perhaps about 60 miles from Charlotte, it began to pour!  I mean -- downpour like there was no end.  I immediately put my flashers on (like many others), slowed down, and proceeded with caution.  Thank goodness for road signs and many drivers heeding the weather and slowing down.  As you would guess it, my destination took me through some areas as rush hour came, and so that added to the melee.  As I pulled into the hotel, not a drop of rain (of course!)  However, as I left the hotel for dinner, the rain caught up with me again! Oh, well.

I am looking forward to visiting a number of churches here in Charlotte -- given the fact that I am in the south, in the "Queen City", and as Dr. Dan put it, "There's a Presbyterian Church just about everywhere you turn."

I so appreciate knowing there are people reading my blog.  If you know how to comment, please do.  This circle of the tour does not afford me as much contact with people I know, and so my contacts will largely depend on the blog, e-mails, and Facebook.  Keep in touch.  I'll do the same.

Take care, my friends.

Alan

The Bluegrass of Kentucky, then Home...

Leaving Dayton, and on to the beautiful area surrounding Lexington.  So many times I have past the Kentucky Horse Farm, so I made a point while I was staying in Lexington to visit the farm itself.  Quite the place (especially if you have any love for horses!)  The last time I visited a horse farm in Kentucky was with a senior high group from Chicago in 1968.  We had just completed a work camp experience about a hundred miles away, and stopped at Spendthrift Farm.  The owner met with our youth group and toured us around.  They certainly did not live up to their name, for the owner shared with us that it took $100,000 a year just to paint the fences white! Having spent a week in mission about a hundred miles away, it caused such a stir with our group that they were compelled to come back to Kentucky at another site altogether and do some work.

My tour at Kentucky Horse Farm was concentrated and now gives quite a history of ALL horses and an opportunity to note that several famous ones are either buried there or have a statue in their honor.  It is a peaceful place and lots of shade to enjoy.  The horses are absolutely beautiful ... again, you have to appreciate horses to understand.

The churches in Lexington varied in size and style.  Lots was picked up in the way of ideas -- some of what not to do, and that was O.K.  My final stop was at a church in Danville, KY, south of Lexington.  This church has some similarities with our church.  They, too, have struggled with some of their programming needs, even being a downtown church in a small town and right smack in the middle of a beautiful college campus (Presbyterian). 

Now I am at home, enjoying getting caught up on yard duties, seeing my wife and a few friends, and of course - doing laundry!  Congrats to the youth on a successful car wash/bake sale + having a good number attending the S.A.L.T. Project.  Hope everyone else at the church is doing well and excited about all the fall plans and activities.

Leaving Wednesday for Charlotte and the southern circle of places.

Take care, my friends.

Alan

Dayton, Part 2

I am so glad for the time in Dayton, Ohio.  I had the opportunity to spend a little of that time with my great nephew, Micah!  (He's a cutie!)  I am overwhelmed by his vocabulary and thinking process.  Hopefully his parents will survive the "terrible twos" which they are about to embark through.

Columbus, Ohio brought a wonderful opportunity to share ideas and thoughts about Christian Education with people who care about Christian Education.  Again, I have been affirmed by the ideas from others that our church IS doing wonderful stuff.  Perhaps it is just that some things need tweaking, and there is definitely room for new things to occur that will stimulate more to become involved more in their church.  There are some new resources to look at in the area of talents and skills of people in our church.  I do hope we might engage in not only a conversation, but some type of action towards having a better understanding of the various "gifts" people have, but to also tap those gifts in the attempt to have lots more people involved in the life of the church.  The resources are now on order.  Hopefully, I will have the time to scan these and bring some positive suggestions to the Session and the committees affected.

Now the time has come to travel on to Lexington and other points in Kentucky.  I am also ready to be home for a few days and to see Barb again.  There is a lot to be said about home, not to mention being in your own bed!

Needless to say, I am really enjoying the people I am meeting, the ideas and resources gathered, and beginning to understand how some of these things can be put into place in our church.

Hope everyone is doing well back in Greeneville.

Take care, my friends.

Alan   

Dayton, Part 2

The time In Dayton (part 1)

I could not have been more excited when I reached the two churches here in Dayton slated for the last few days.  First, I marveled at how much they are doing, especially the first one that had a myriad of volunteers!  The warmth, and the welcome there was something I took dutiful notes on.  I explored that area of ministry with them at length, and it struck me how much emphasis is placed on hospitality.  They are a church the size of First Presb. Greeneville, yet they manage to get people committed to doing a whole  lot of things, or as John M. Beckett would say, a "plethora" of things!  

Now this is not to say that they are running smoothly; yet, they have a way about them that is quite refreshing, and ministry is happening.  Another aspect that was intriguing was the artwork on the walls, especially in the children's area.  An artist within the congregation shared her talents by painting the walls with biblical stories from both Old and New Testaments. They were tastefully done and pleasing to the sight.  There were other visuals around the church that would lead anyone that this church not only has children and youth, but that they are held up with some prominence.

Likewise, the second church, though a bit larger than us, had done some marvelous displays of what the children of the church were studying, and displayed them in high traffic areas so that the average pew sitter was exposed to it and could see something the children were doing. Highlighting that was an ark, several clay model displays, and lots and lots of pictures connected with the program Heiffer Project.  The children of the church are trying to fill the ark (buying animals)through the Heiffer Project to enable farmers in other countries to have livestock to raise and for food.

It sure left me with a lot to think about, and how that might translate for us as a congregation, especially when we DO have high traffic areas that currently are underused.

Labor Day has me spending some time with Barb's sister and brother-in-law for a bit of respite. I never realized all of this traveling, interviewing, and introspection would make me feel tired.  I mean, we DID have a whale of a summer, and I felt quite well through all that.  Perhaps all of this is catching up with me.  Tuesday is another trip to Columbus for a wonderful time with DCE's of that Presbytery.  Then, Wednesday takes me on to Lexington, KY.

Take care, my friends.

Alan   

On Chicago... on Jackson... on Dayton... on ...

(Sorry the title sounds like Santa asking his reindeers to, well, you know!)

A few days have past since I have posted something.  Chicago was a wonderful experience with the various churches and McCormick Seminary.  On top of that, the whole experience of seeing many places from my childhood as well as the new look the city has.  As many large cities, there is always some construction going on.  And the ever-present traffic!  I now appreciate even more the traffic we have back home.  It is nothing compared with what I faced in Chicago!

Jackson, Michigan has a wonderful Presbyterian church that is doing some fantastic things with their children and youth.  They are also involved in replacing their floor in the sanctuary, so there isn't much to show there in the few photographs I took.  As has been the case in just about every church I have visited, I am coming to understand more and more how much we are all doing in Greeneville together.  I have to say that we are doing great things; however, perhaps the improvement areas I am thinking about may be about how we promote, show, communicate, and understand the vastness of what we do (ie. mission, for instance.)  I sure hope the Mission Fair is given enough latitude to explore as many avenues of presentation as possible and then promote the dickens about the event to our congregation AND to the community.

I am now in Dayton, Ohio -- here I will be looking at several churches as well as have a short visit with Barb's side of the family.

I want to share with all those reading that this time away has been a good reflective time for me.  Not just with the sense of history of going to places to see things, but to the people I meet -- it has been wonderful to share stories.  I find myself being asked to talk about our church, and people who I share things with wonder how it is that we do so much stuff with just a membership our size!  I explain to them that we have a wonderful congregation with people who are interested in their church, and are supportive, especially when it comes to mission needs.  So, if anything comes from my travels, it will be a new sense of appreciation for First Presbyterian Church, Greeneville.  For that, I am truly grateful, proud, and humbled to be part of a faith experience there.

Take care, my friends.

Alan 

With this morning ... I leave Chicago

Since my last posting, I have visited many places ... saw many things ... learned a great deal about some of our larger Presbyterian churches  ... and have picked up on some rather creative, inventive, and thoughtful things we can be doing with our church family.  Being a visitor on a Sunday morning, I got the opportunity to see how another church handles a visitor -- someone who came through the front door of the church ... how visitors are approached and made to feel welcomed.  I had some mixed feelings about the experience.  I was greeted by an usher, and told to sit wherever I would like, for there were many pews available.  I really was not greeted until after the service -- and that was due to the fact that I sang out loud (how can you not sing out loud when we were singing "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God"?)  Those around me thought I should sit in the choir.  I quickly told them it would be a long commute from Tennessee!  I also had an encounter with another woman who was told I was a visitor.  She asked me where I was from, and I said Tennessee, with her response being, "I can tell you're not from Tennessee ... I don't hear the twang".  Now she said this with a rather southern twang.  Now I was not sure whether to object to her mocking or just smile. I smiled, and said that I was originally from Chicago, and hat I REALLY enjoy living in Greeneville, TN.  Wonderful way to be greeted, huh?

I am going back to the church this morning to finish my interviews.  I am interested in hearing some of the responses today.  I will be sharing my experiences from yesterday.

The Art Institute was spectacular!  I enjoyed the time spent there.  Highlighting the visit were the Miniature Rooms displayed there.  I also was able to spend some time at the Museum of Science and Industry.  It has kept up pace with all the technology -- the place has changed so much!  However, they kept some of the favorite spots I remembered and enjoyed so much when I was younger.  I believe it has been at least 20 years since I have been there.

O.K., so Chicago is also known for its food: Berghoff's - a wonderful German restaurant, was a real taste of German cuisine.  Great lunch (dinners are expensive).  I also was able to have dinner at The Italian Village -- a wonderful place that has been there since the early 20th century.  All I can say is WOW!

I have adjusted my time so that I can spend a little more time in Jackson, MI.  It also takes the pinch on the next leg after that to Dayton, Ohio.  Leaving Chicago is O.K. for me -- the traffic and the largeness of this city is something I won't miss.  I WILL miss the company I have had while I was here as well as the places and sights visited.

So long, Chicago.  It has been a wonderful, fulfilling experience. 

Take care, my friends.

Alan    

The Chicago Scene: Part 1

It is a BIG city ... a VERY BIG city!  I knew that the traffic would be quite a challenge; however, after today I am convinced that the traffic has been a challenge that would wear out most people.  Focus, focus, focus.  Luckily, the grid style of how the city is laid out is a plus for me, and I am grateful for all the years my Dad took me around the city ... those times are paying off.

Last night, I checked on my half-sister.  She is well and seems to be happy where she is.  She still has her cats, and the people who are sharing their home with her seemed quite nice.  I hope she can maintain a good spirit.

Today's visit to a "corporate-size church" was a bit overwhelming.  I do know that there are some things that are the same in all churches, but this church was, shall we say: on the scale of the WOW factor -- a 10!  I had opportunity to talk with several of the 5 ministers on staff.  (one of them is a graduate of Columbia and knows Erin -- she even Facebooks with her!) The two ministers primarily are involved in children's ministry and young adult ministry.  I am pleased to say that they shared some wonderful ideas to think about.  And, they even were genuinely interested in the things we are doing in Greeneville.

  

Highlighting today was visiting Professor "Lib" Caldwell at McCormick Theological Seminary. She gave me some insight regarding some educational models as well as what is on the cutting edge in Christian Education.  She also shared some very good sources for me to use for my own growth, which I appreciate very much.  There are some things to ponder here, especially when it comes to materials we could be using with our young adults.  

This is my first visit to McCormick Seminary on the "new" campus.  The memories of the north side campus are scattered in the one building now being used on the University of Chicago campus.  Pictures, artwork, and some plaques had been saved (even the signage from the "L" station!)  Those who knew the old campus would be pleased to know some memories have been saved.

Tomorrow is a special day -- to visit some of the best art in the country at the Art Institute as well as seeing what is new in Grant Park.  This return trip to Chicago has brought back some good memories -- even though the place has changed considerably.  It still is wonderful to visit and see it all again.

Hope all is well at home ... my thoughts have been pretty focused on enjoying the experience and being a good listener to the people I have been meeting at the churches along the way.  Not only are there lots of things to think about, but a real opportunity for me to do some reflecting and thinking about my ministry and how to be more effective in what I can do when I return.

Take care, my friends.

Alan

Transition Has Begun

I have been on the road for a few days now, having been to the Presbyterian Center in Louisville -- wow!  The artwork and the building are pretty magnificent.  Got to visit a few people I know on staff.  The organization is downsizing because of the lack of funds.  I also have visited a couple of churches in Louisville, and was impressed by some things, and in others -- well, I am beginning to see that some of the things we are doing are not only good, but more than what other churches our size are doing.

I have finally made it to Chicago just in time to meet with a junior high youth leader of one church I will visit with again tomorrow.  She was only available today, so  I wanted to be sure to stop and talk with her.  She took me to a great coffeehouse (O.K., Starbucks!) We spent about two hours talking about the church's ministry with junior high youth.  Great ideas, as well as sharing what we do back in Greeneville.

Now, I'm looking forward to some supper and a relaxing bed!  It was a long trip from Louisville as well as the hot weather.

Tomorrow has two churches to visit, plus some time devoted to some exercise -- getting to walk a few miles in before it gets too warm.

God is sure blessed us as a church -- I am so proud about what we accomplish together,  You don't realize it until you are away from it.  I m beginning to see that.  Take care, my friends.

Alan

Just About Ready

Well, it's Wednesday, and I am trying to get ready with all of the last-minute things that need to be done here at the church + pack and gather all the final stuff I need for the trip.

I have to say that I am very excited about the possibilities of this trip -- the places to visit and the things that I will learn.  I have (as many, many people have suggested) worked in a few quieter moments on the journey, so rest assured I will do just that!

Please keep me in your prayers, and I do hope some folks will check in on Barb -- she could become a homebody if someone doesn't say, "Hey - let's do something!"

I will do my best to keep this updated every couple of days. Unless, of course, something really exciting is encountered.

Peace.

Alan