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