Of Homecoming and housecleaning....

This last week has been fairly busy here. We've had a few pastoral visits to make, including to one in Rochester for a woman who was having some surgery. It's a real interesting visit when you wait with the family for 2 hours watching Game Show Network. This past Sunday, I was in charge of the children's message, which was a rollickin' good time. My supervisor usually says very enthusiastically, "Good morning kids!" to which they respond lethargically, "good morning pastor mark." I mixed it up a little. My greeting was, "Gooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooood morning kids." They didn't know what to do with that one. :D

We also had our first Jr. and Sr. F.L.Y. (First Lutheran Youth) meetings on Sunday evening. We had a pizza party and brainstormed ideas for the year. The Jr. folks seemed really excited for the events, while the Sr. group was more concerned about Homecoming this week or riding around in their go-karts. We'll see how it goes.

Yesterday was the beginning of Homecoming week. It was kicked off by the shortest parade on the planet. Of course, it was fun, but when you consider that the two towns of the district have about total 1,300 people, you understand. I may actually get to fulfill a dream on Friday by working the chain gang for the Homecoming game. Looking forward to it. I'm also looking forward to preaching on Sunday. There's a real meaty text this week that I can't wait to get into. My house is also starting to come together, so that's a good thing. Till next time.

In Christ's Hope,
Christopher

Only 50.5 weeks to go!

I'm joking. I'm not counting the weeks. In fact, I'm enjoying my time so far. I'm still in a feeling out stage: getting to know people, figuring out what my duties are and will be, and how much time I need in preparation for them. My supervisor and I, while coming from somewhat different places theologically, get along really well personally. On Tuesday, his family (him, wife, and 5-yr-old daughter) took me out to lunch. He and I were going on some riff about something funny, and his daughter deadpans "I hope Vicar Christopher doesn't get Daddy too wild." :D I think he was there already, personally.

My first preaching experience will be October 3. That'll make it over a month and a half since I've preached. Frankly, I've had withdrawl symptoms. :D I'm really looking forward to getting back in the pulpit. But for now, I'm helping to lead worship (confession tomorrow! Woo Hoo!), preparing to handle 7th & 8th graders for SS tomorrow, and starting confirmation in 2 weeks. I'm still not totally ready for everything yet, but it's coming along.

People are starting to know who I am, which is great and disconcerting at the same time, especially when you have no idea who they are. :D Thursday night at the volleyball match, I walked in and stood there for a second contemplating the sitting down/concession quandry when I heard "Hi Vicar Christopher". I looked up and saw this girl (13-14 maybe) waving. I said hi, but had no idea who she was. I know now, but I'm hoping I don't have too many more of those experiences.

Well, I wish the best to you all. Me, I'm off to clean my house and take a nap. God's blessings.

It's on now!

I have arrived here in Glenville. I'm right now sitting in my office, typing for the whole world to see. In a little bit, I'll be heading over to my house to get things situated, and tomorrow it begins. I'm nervous and excited all at once. The people have been extremely friendly, and I just hope that I can repay their friendliness with the same. Just wanted to let you know. I'm off to unpack.

Shall we begin at the beginning...

And the beginning is less than a week away.

My trip to Florida went well, and it was nice to see that 8 seminarians living in a beach condo did not lead to violence. :D But seriously, I'm looking forward to next week. I have plenty of work to do before then, but it's going to be amazing. There are plenty of us out there, ready to do the work. More once I get there.