Internship Uncensored

It has been fun!!!

2005-08-05T14:23:00.000-05:00

Hello all!

I completed my internship this past Sunday July 31st. What a grand finale! I will personally
e-mail all of you on what happened in case the blogger isn't up and running anymore. I am getting ready for the CWA next week. Glad to hear that all is well with many of you! Blessings to you and more.

Will e-mail soon!

In Christ,
Natacha

I'm done

2005-08-03T09:38:00.000-05:00

Well I am trying to enjoy my second day of not being an intern. I miss the staff already. The parishoners are the best people and I miss them too. Tom have you met a Bill Swanson while you have been bouncing around Germany. He is a friend of David's and mine. Christopher what are you going to do in Rockford? Another question for you, I still have some wedding decoration stuff, what should I do with this? I am moving out of my cottage in the woods in bits and pieces.

We are getting ready to celebrate David's birthday. He will be 50-years-old on the 11th. Well I will see some of you on campus and some of you I will have to keep in touch by e-mail.
Love and prayers

No blog in the summertime.....

2005-08-03T08:51:00.000-05:00

Yeah, we have kind of slowed down on the blogging.

The blog is dead.
Long live the blog. :D

I've been pretty busy being married and all. Our situation changed a little bit too. As opposed to heading to Alaska next year, Rebecca and I are headed to Rockford, IL. The pastor up there took another call. So that's negative.

The major thing this week for me is preparing the congregation for the Churchwide Assembly. I'm leading a congregational forum on Sunday letting people know about what's going on in Orlando next week. We've got some folks here who are highly interested (and critical), so we'll see what happens.

Besides that, it's closure time. I've been called "pastor" a couple of times, which is cool. It'll be weird to not have a "flock" next year, but I'll get used to it. So you know, I'm going to be in Rockford next year, so you might not see me too much around seminary land. I'm going to get done in 2007. God bless everyone!

Wow

2005-07-27T17:49:00.000-05:00

I must say that I have just been incredibly impressed with the lively discussion going on on this blog of late. It's been very enlightening to hear about all of everyone's experiences. In case you haven't noticed, I'm laying on the sarcasm pretty thick. I realize that things are pretty busy for everyone as the internship year comes to a close, but perhaps we can all learn a practical lesson from this: communal activities, such as blogs, are only effective when everyone participates in them.

I've been fairly busy lately doing various things in the city of Wittenberg. I had the chance to preach in the Castle Church once more, which was good. I just got back from Austria today after participating as a leader in an annual retreat for members of the St. Thomas Boys Choir and their siblings. It felt more like boot camp, actually. We hiked hardcore through the Austrian mountains about every day. Some of the scenery seemed like it was directly out of "The Sound of Music." We stayed in an old castle in Austria, which now serves as a church youth retreat center.

I only have less than two weeks left of internship before I head back home. I'm looking forward to it, although my experiences here have been great. See all or most of you sometime soon!

Count Thomas Jacobson

Woohoo

2005-07-11T21:32:00.000-05:00

Just got back from the 6th Triennial. 4,000 Lutheran women descended from the skies (okay some drove) on San Antonio, TX. We had (my roommate and I) a great time. The weather was wonderful and the food was awesome. Now it is time to get in to the wind down of internship. I still haven't figured out my fall class schedule. I am trying to complete my Greek, but finding it very difficult. Someone my age, should not have to try and figure out the whys and wherefore of a language that isn't spoken anymore. Oh well, enough griping. I hope that you are all making plans for the fall and we can perhaps get together in person.
Love and prayers

4-year-olds and glue

2005-06-08T13:20:00.000-05:00

What do you wear? It is VBS week here and I am doing crafts with the 4 and 5-year-olds. We are having a great time doing the Seregetti (?) Trek. We have zebras and giraffes and lions running around. Okay there kids with labels on but they make enough noise to be real. It is is so hard and so sad to think that I have only six weeks left here in Brainerd. I haven't even figured out my class schedule for next fall. Got to finish my Greek before I can think too much about it. Also want to work on my CPE documentation. So how are you wrapping up your year (that is for all of you to answer, by the way)?
Love and prayers

To the Newlyweds...Chris and Rebecca Miller

2005-05-23T14:59:00.000-05:00

Hey Chris and Rebecca!

It's so cool calling you two newlyweds. I pray you are taking it slow now post-wedding.

This writing by Ann Landers on the subject of what real love is all about, I believe, is very good food for thought. Therefore, I am passing it on along to the two of you to read. Although, I have had it for quite some time now, it still rings true today.

Congratulations and may God's continued blessings be with you!

LOVE

LOVE is a friendship that has caught fire;
it is quiet understanding, mutual confidence, sharing, and forgiving;
it is a loyalty through good and bad.
It settles for less than for perfection,
and makes allowances for human weaknesses.

LOVE is content with the present;
it hopes for the future and it doesn’t brood
over the past.
It’s the day-in and day-out
chronicle of irritations, problems,
compromises, small disappointments, big
victories, and working toward common goals.

IF you have LOVE in your life, it can
make up for a great many things you lack.
IF you don’t have it, no matter what else there is,
it’s not enough.

--Ann Landers

I'm Back In Cheese Head Country!!!

2005-05-16T17:05:00.000-05:00

A Warm Happy Hola To All!!!

I am back in Wisconsin and still praying for full-time spring weather. Do hope that every one of you had an exceptionally great Easter in every way. I truly had a good one myself. Mom and my brother came to share in the celebration along with me, which made it even nicer. I am always happy to see them at any time and was very glad that they could come and be with me.

First off, it was a busy time for me on through Holy Week. I had the opportunity of preaching at two of our Lenten services; plus my family had the opportunity of hearing me preach at our Praise and Worship Service on Easter Sunday morning (a contemporary one in addition to our traditionals). They seemed to have enjoyed themselves a lot. Mom even commented as to how so well I brought forth my message, and how she was sitting there so proud of me.

I also had to be in a meeting at the church 5:00 am sharp on Easter Sunday morning before everything else got started for that day. This caused me to hit the hay much earlier than normal the night before in order to get some extra Z’s in (sleep). I needed to make certain that I would be bright eyed and bushy tailed for that one since having to arise really early in order to be there on time-ha!

Well, we didn’t have our Easter dinner at home here as previously planned. My brother wanted to go out and eat. Of all the days, he had to choose this particular one when most restaurants would be over crowded, in which they were. We ate at Old Country Buffet because this is where he wanted to go. It was nice, but crowded as we had anticipated.

All was not lost, though, because we ate our home Easter meal the next evening, Monday. I decided to put our ham in the slow cooker this time which turned out most delicious and tender. The rolls I did not bake this go round, but bought them-ha! Rather than preparing a dessert from scratch, I had a special cake made at the bakery with a large beautiful cross on it and the words “Happy Easter” at the bottom of the cross. All went well.

The First Communion of our 5th graders at the Maundy Thursday service went over quite well I am most proud to announce. The stoles that I made for each child was a big hit as well. The parents and their children became absolutely ecstatic over how so beautifully made they were, and having also the honor of wearing them for this special occasion. Never in the history of this church did they ever do anything commemorative for the 5th graders First Communion until this point (which causes this particular group to be their very first).

Anyway, they were all lined in front of the altar in the sanctuary for the congregation to see and also know who each of them were, etc…Then the senior pastor announced concerning the stoles they had on and the fact that I made them. We were all applauded. Pictures galore were being taken all over the place during the actual church service, and also at the after celebration in Fellowship Hall. The parents were taking so many until the children started to complain that they could not see-ha! This is just how so excited the parents became. A great job was even done on the specially made First Communion cake. So as you can tell, everything turned out to be wonderful for everyone involved.

I put a lot of work into those stoles, believe me. Many would not have accepted the challenge because of the work involved and the amount of time assigned to make them. I had to hunt up the different colors of fabric, and find the needed designs to form all the patterns in addition to all of the other main work involved. Nevertheless, I don’t mind a good challenge once in a while. It can show what a person is made of in a sense.

Now I have been asked to put together a Smart Book which the church can keep, and also use in the future makings of first communion stoles for their 5th graders to come. I have agreed. They want to establish it as a tradition for these 5th graders, the reason being.

Moving along to other things. I have had three different trips to become cancelled that I was to go on, but I am not complaining because of my being busy otherwise. Also, if it had been GOD’s will for me to go on any of them, then I would have is the way I see it.

The first was to a youth convention in Anaheim, California. The pastor needed me at the church because of too many other pastors being gone at the same time as myself. The second one was to a middle school youth convention in Chicago. I soon discovered that this one would have interfered with my family coming for Easter, therefore I cancelled out. And of course, the third was to Escanaba, Michigan which is located on the Upper Peninsula. The pastor was suddenly called away to attend military school for a week before our departure, therefore causing everything to become cancelled.

Well, that is all for now. Things are slowing down a bit as summer is approaching. But, there is always something to do. I hope to hear more of your adventures as they unfold. May God’s continued blessings be abundant in your lives. May you experience God in a truer and deeper way each day.

In Christ’s Love and Joy,
Natacha
Philippians 1

what I did on Mother's Day

2005-05-10T09:20:00.000-05:00

I came to the cities on Friday for Rebecca's bridal shower. Great fun. I was suppose to go with them dancing in the evening, but I over indulged with somethig that had too many eggs in it. Carla (my daughter) and Tanya (my son's girl friend) and I watched a movie. Saturday we went to see Michael and Tanya's new home and then went shopping. Got back to Brainerd about 9:30 p.m. Sunday morning I delivered the sermon. Sunday afternoon I worked on some hand crafts and in the evening went somewhere for a picnic. Then I got to do one of my favoritest things in the world. I got to ride a horse. Melody is an arabian with attitude, but we got along fine once she figured out I had more attitude than she did. David found a horse that he liked but she belongs to someone else. David has always been a little apprehensive about horses, but this one was down right flirting with him. She would stick her head out of the stall every time she heard his voice and nicker at him till he came and touched her. Then she would nuzzle his neck and woofle at him. I would be jealous except she is a horse and it was good to see him having a positive interaction with a horse. The one that tried to follow me home was a sweet stocky power house of a horse. Get their names though (that's the funny part) The one that fell for David is named "Sweety", the one that fell for me is named "Tuffy". Go figure. Anyway it was a great time. I hope you all got to at least speak with your mothers. Mine wasn't home (what's new). I will try to call her again.
Love and prayers

Wanted: Full-Time Spring Weather!!!

2005-05-09T15:34:00.000-05:00

A Hearty Hello from God's Country...Minnesota!

I came here for the purpose of attending the Southeastern Minnesota Synod Assembly at the Mayo Civic Center which I thoroughly enjoyed. In many ways it was quite intriguing. At the same time, it game me the opportunity to spend Mother's Day with my Mother, which worked out very well.

The first day of the assembly, I had the opportunity of reading the Scripture lesson during opening worship, in which I really try to put my heart into. I must have done an excellen job, because of the many compliments I received throughout that day and the next. It was good to hear them; I do try to put forth my best effort. Some even stated that I will be a great asset to the ELCA as a pastor. This made me feel good inside knowing all my hardwork is finally paying off.

I also had the chance to connect with the pastors from my home church while there. They were very much surprised to see me and discover I am a CWA voting member by which they became estatic and proud. From that point on, we all spent the entire assembly time together. I had a marvelous time, and we all were treated royaly. It was an all day affair on both days, and therefore was served breakfast, lunch, and dinner. On Friday, a huge tent was set up in the courtyard to serve us. The menu consisted of chicken, beef, pork, potato salad, coleslaw, taco salad, baked beans, cornbread, rolls, lemonade, pop, and ice cream.

During the course of our time together, my pastors brought up to others in our group the fact that not only was I a good public speaker, but an excellent cook (trained by Mom). And to my surprise, they said to me; "By the way, Natacha, out mouths are watering for some more of your good Mississippi Mud Pie and southern bread pudding. When will we get to eat more?" Mind you, the Mississippi mud pie he was referring to is really Sweet Potato Pie. They are two separate receipes. Somehow, he can never remember it is Sweet Potato Pie.

We, the CWA voting members, sported yellow ribbons on our name tages to verify who we were. Camera flashes went off here and there, and supposedly our pictures and contact information will be published soon; how, when, and where...I don't know. This is what our Bishop announced.

At the closing ceremony, CWA voting members were prayed over and commissioned by both the Bishop and assembly participants. My pastors also choose to accompany me at that time to lay their hands on me and pray. Afterwards, each of us was presented with prayer shawls knitted by someone in our respective churches. I found this to be a very good and heartfelt gesture. I am so proud of it, and do plan to use it. As we parted to go our separate ways, my pastors gave me lots of hugs and said they are praying for me. I am looking forward to the Assembly in Orlando.

Anyhow, I enjoyed spending Mother's Day with Mom and my brother. He and I treated Mom to breakfast, lunch, and dinner; plus took her to a movie of her choice. We also gave her a super duper sized Mother's Day card by which the inside consisted of a written out certificate to the World's Greatest Mom. Mom was so carried away, she cried after reading it and gave us each a giant hug and kiss. Then she walked over to the neighbor's to show it off--ha! As a gift, we gave to her one of her favorite perfumes. She was estatic!

I will be returning to Wisconsin in about another day. At that time, I will bring you up to date on what I have been doing since I last posted. In the meantime, may God's continued blessings and guidance be with you. May you daily experience God in a truer and deeper way.

In Christ's Peace and Joy,
Natacha
Hebrews 13

P.S. Hey Miller! It was great seeing and talking with you at the assembly.

P.S.S. Rena! Happy Belated Mother's Day. I pray your day was full of surprises and blessings.

Interesting experiences...

2005-05-02T04:58:00.000-05:00

Good to hear from a few of you. As for me, I've been in Germany for nine months today! Yes, the time is going quickly. With the warmer weather in Leipzig and the famous Bach Festival taking place at the moment, I really am beginning to enjoy myself here. This is my last week here in Leipzig, and I get to lead an English language worship on the evening of May 8th. So, we'll be singing some good old LBW hymns here in the Thomaskirche.

The other day, I visited a 93 year old woman, who is a member of the congregation, on the occasion of her birthday. It was a surreal experience. I felt like Luke Skywalker visiting Yoda for the first time. This woman spoke with a very heavy Saxon dialect and accent, so I could only understand about 50 percent of what she was saying. Then, she started running around the apartment. After that, she grabbed her cane, and threatened to hit me over the head with it if I tried to attack her.

I also have had the chance to greet the US ambassador to Germany for the second time here at the St. Thomas Church. Since the old ambassador left, we now have an interim ambassador. I had to translate the discussion for his wife, who didn't understand German.

I also translated the conversation for someone who was interviewing my pastor for an article that will appear in some different church music magazines back in the States. So, I might be mentioned.

Anyway, life is pretty exciting here at the moment. Hope to hear from more of you soon.

Tom

I'm flying solo!

2005-04-26T13:23:00.000-05:00

Howdy strangers. Wedding planning has made my life pretty insane, but I needed to stop by and share a couple things.

First of all, right now, I'm the solo pastor of this congregation. My supervisor and his family are in Colombia until May 4 adopting a son. So, I'm the show! I may have to do a funeral at some point, and there's lots going on. But it's good experience for me.

2 Fridays ago, we had a Junior and Senior High lock-in. From midnight to 6:30, it was about 20 kids, and ME. They tested my patience repeatedly, but eventually we got under control enough for breakfast. I then went home and slept. I don't know if my sleep pattern has gotten back on track YET. :D

And the other big piece of news: Rebecca found out about her internship next year. So, next year, I'll be taking classes online....in ANCHORAGE. Talk about your frozen tundra! I told her that it's ironic that the girl who hates cold is going to Alaska. :D I was initially ambivelant, but the idea grew on me. Plus, the church has a service at 8, which means I can get to the Viking bar 2 miles from the church to watch the games which start at 9! :D :D :D

I may post one more time before Rebecca makes an honest man of me. God bless everyone, and I hope to see/hear from you soon!

In Christ's Hope,
Christopher

If I learn anything

2005-04-26T10:58:00.000-05:00

Man, if I learn anything on internship it should be how to say no once in a while. This has been the month of fundraisers and I have been involved in four so far and one more to go. I begged for money to ship quilts around the world, went behind bars for MDA, made phone calls for Luthercrest and made fudge for Faith in Action's silent auction, next week I bowl for Bethany. I wander if my internship is legal; I am having way too much fun. It is sad to think it will soon be over and I have to go back to study and paper writing.

I have to share kind of a neat thing that happened this week. We have a woman who has been working on dying for all of the months I have been here. When the grandson she was waiting for was born she held him on her lap for a long time. After that she seemed to lose the strength to eat or drink and died when the baby was 21 days old. Her funeral was yesterday and there were 400 people here. Today we baptized the grandson. From life to death to new life, from birth to death to new life in both generations. Pretty amazing.
Love and prayers

3 months and counting

2005-04-22T14:39:00.000-05:00

Hey Everyone,

I hope that you are all doing well and that your internships are going well. I can't believe that most of us only have 3 to 4 months left before the end of our internships. The time has definitely gone by very fast. I was looking at my calender for the rest of my internship and it is definitely going to be very busy, with our synod assembly, end of the school year stuff, youth trips and other misc. things going on. But everything is going well in Northern California, the weather has been pretty weird, it's colder here then in the cities, but we still get sun so that's nice. Not much else to report from here, the synod assembly should be interesting, it's in Oakland and it's probably the most liberal synod in the ELCA as there will be a lot of people from San Fran there. It might be a prelude of things to come at the CWA this August. Lord knows that this church is going to need a lot of prayers in the coming months, this should also make next year at sem pretty interesting also. God bless.

Jared

Getting a little lonely

2005-04-21T15:29:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone. It's been a long time since anyone has written anything. I hope that you're not too busy. Even if you are, I'm interested in knowing what's going on in your lives, as I'm sure everyone else would be. Let everyone know how things are going in the wonderful world of internship. Time is going fast. Hang in there.

T Bone

The Lord's my shepherd...

2005-04-11T07:05:00.000-05:00

Even though I walk through a valley as dark as death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me. Your staff and your crook are my comfort. -Psalm 23 NEB
This last week has provided me with the opportunity to think a lot about the biblical shepherd theme, which I'm assuming most of you will be dealing with this coming Sunday. For some reason, the Good Shepherd Sunday in Germany is a week before when it is usually observed in the United States. I had the chance to preach this last Sunday, and the assigned reading for the sermon (they are much more rigid about that here in this country) was from Ezekiel 34. I must say that Good Shepherd Sunday is, next to Pentecost and Easter, my favorite Sunday of the year.
I began to think a lot about the significance of this theme for my life, especially throughout the time of my internship. Being so far from home in another country, I've certainly had my "highs and lows." Now that I only have a few months left, I see so clearly how God has been shepherding me, even in the times that I have been frustrated and angry with a variety of things. Maybe all of you, upon reflection, have had similar feelings.
Since I last wrote, I've also experienced the 25th anniversary of my baptism, which took place on April 6, 1980. Things are beginning to take on even more life in Leipzig. The warm weather is good, but there are also a number of people on the streets that try to bother you with things such as signing petitions, etc., which is not pleasant. I've learned to look at the ground a lot when walking.
I hope all is well. Post when you have time.
Herr Jacobson

My bail is $1200

2005-04-07T11:23:00.000-05:00

I am going behind bars for good on April 18th. Well that ought to get your attention. Some one graciously nominated me to be locked up on behalf of the Muscular Dystrophy Association. I am not sure how I am going to raise 1200 dollars. If any of you reading this would like to pledge to get me out (or keep me in-according to the contract out on me) it would be greatly appreciated by me and Jerry's kids.
THANKS
Love and prayers

Auf, Auf, Mein Herz, Mit Freuden...

2005-03-27T13:13:00.000-06:00

After participating in a 6:00 AM worship with candles filling the darkness of the Thomaskirche, assisting with a 9:30 worship, and preaching in German for the evening service, along with singing all the liturgy, I think I´m about ready to be done for the day. I distributed communion three times today as well. Seriously, preaching in German is probably the most draining experience I´ve ever had, but I get a sense of satisfaction out of doing it.

Leipzig is beginning to take on a new character as the weather gets warmer. The accordion street musicians are once again playing their old tunes, and the streets are crowded as well. Don´t worry, I´m not going to jump to making a connection between the coming of spring and the resurrection of Jesus. That would be a little hypocritial, as I just preached a sermon going against that way of thinking.

I have had the chance to sing the hymn in the subject line earlier today. The English translation in the LBW says "Awake, My Heart, with Gladness, see what today is done." It is one of my favorite hymns. Look at it when you get the chance. Once again, I have heard the story of God triumphing over my sinfulness, which kills my old life and makes me new. First, Christ died for us and for our salvation, and then rose to show us that victory, also giving us the promise of the new life to come.

It´s a little odd to once again be away from everything familiar during a holiday, but there´s a first time for everything. I look forward to seeing you all in the near future. Have a blessed rest of the day.

Basking in the Easter afterglow...

Tom

Happy Resurrection Day!

2005-03-27T12:36:00.000-06:00

Jesus is truly risen indeed!
O death, where is your sting?!
The grave can no longer hold us.
Freedom in Christ is ours!
Christ is risen and has defeated sin, death, and the devil.
Praise be to the One who is alive and sits at the right hand of God!

He is Risen!

2005-03-27T09:34:00.000-06:00

He is Risen!

My Latest Adventures...As Promised!

2005-03-24T13:13:00.000-06:00

A Happy, Happy Hello Everybody…I’m Back!

Goodness, gracious; absent yourself for a short while and everything seems to occur while away. Seems as though cupid drew back his bow and shot a few arrows to some hearts since I last posted…and with double tips at that-Ha! WOW!! He must have added an extra special love potion on the tips of yours Chris and Rebecca…smile. You sound really happy I must admit. It could not have happened to anyone nicer, and that is straight from the heart. In the list of Twenty One Suggestions For Success by H. Jackson Brown Jr., suggestion #1 states: “Marry the right person. This one decision will determine ninety percent of your happiness or misery.” Suggestion #13 states: “Understand that happiness is not based on possessions, power or prestige, but on relationships with people you love and respect.” Suggestion #20 states: “Take good care of those you love.”
No truer words spoken. Congratulations and the best of success to the both of you.

Well, what more can I say for myself except the usual. I have been as busy as a honeybee near an array of nectar sweet flowers…smiles. It has been meeting, after meeting, after meeting. I did not know so many meetings could exist at one time. The only meeting that hasn’t occurred yet is the one with our Savior in the air for his second coming.

Anyhow, for starters, I finally completed my internship project. I taught a 5-week course entitled Discovering God’s Vision for Your Life: You and Your Spiritual Gifts, which teaches the Bible’s description of spiritual gifts, and how they fit within the body of Christ. I had a fun-tastic time teaching and learning from each of the participants, and God’s Spirit was truly present. I walked away from each session with a big florescent Magic Johnson smile on my face from the satisfaction of it all. Spirits were renewed and encouraged from the heart-warming and hilarious stories we shared which was like sitting down and listening to one of Jesus’ parables. As the saying goes, “Time flies when you are having fun.”

I topped things off by planning and preparing a Ministry Celebration Dinner and worship service for the participants along with their family and friends which was held in Fellowship Hall, and also catered. My menu consisted of baked ham, scalloped potatoes, steamed carrots, fruit salad, dinner rolls, coffee, and milk. Hmmm, delicious it was. Our taste buds literally jumped around for joy from the alluring aroma and taste—Ha! I prepared the dessert myself. I baked a large homemade bread pudding from scratch which my mother taught me how to prepare. Everybody absolutely raved over it. Several parishioners made mention that they have tasted bread pudding at some exclusive restaurants, but never to the fantastic taste of mine. There were some who even asked for the leftovers. They used the biggest food storage containers they could find in our church kitchen in order to take home as much as they could. Needless to say, it all vanished except for a small amount which I took home for myself. I made this same dish to celebrate my golden birthday at CPE. The chaplains, along with others who tasted it, couldn’t say enough about how so delicious it was. So, as you can tell, this dessert seems to create a really big hit wherever it goes…smile.

The worship service was the icing on the cake. I presented each participant with a certificate and a towel. The towel represents Jesus washing his disciples’ feet which reminds us that we are to use our God-given gifts and talents to serve, build up, and encourage one another. This brings glory to God. People left the celebration with tears of joy in their eyes, and so did I. God truly touched our hearts. Anyway, a week later I was still hearing wonderful and positive comments about the celebration dinner and my bread pudding. One gentleman, who took a large portion of it home, stated that he ate the rest of it later that same night. In shock, I asked him, “You did know it was rich, right?” He said yes, and admitted that he became a bit uncomfortable behind it all and had to sleep sitting up in a chair for the rest of the night. His wife made the comment while laughing, “You have to let people learn the hard way sometimes as a lesson…smile.” I guess we all have to learn the hard way at one time or another.

Nevertheless, in other exciting news, our church now has a Diaconal Minister who is the first to be called and consecrated in the East Central Synod of Wisconsin. I had the honor of leading the congregation in the Prayer of the Day at the special consecration service, plus, I also sang in the choir for this event. It was very moving and heartfelt, especially the praise and worship music. One upbeat African spiritual the choir sang actually started people clapping their hands and moving to the rhythm. Yes, these were devout Lutherans doing this without one cue card being held up—Ha! Ha!

This past Sunday, I hosted a fun movie night for the youth at my own place. It was suggested that we watch Hairspray starring Ricki Lake since the majority of us hadn’t seen it. Apparently it is based on the 60s show, American Bandstand, hosted by Dick Clark. Sam, one of the youth, is a big fan of the movie and knows all the dance moves. We had a blast! I ordered everyone’s favorite pizza from Dominos, and served chips, dip, cookies, pop, and their favorite chex mix which caused their eyes to grow big as half dollars in excitement when they saw it.

Upon arrival, our associate pastor kicked off her shoes and began showing us how to do the Mashed Potato to Skaa music (a form of jazz). Believe me; we really pumped up the jam—ha! I was waiting for my neighbors to come banging on the door and yelling, “Be quiet!” But, it didn’t happen. In the midst of everyone getting their groove on, I grabbed my camera to take some action shots. I can hardly wait to see the results. When the pizza arrived, the whole group stood up and cheered for the delivery guy to which he humbly bowed saying, “Thank you! Thank you! Thank you very much!” as if he was on center stage at Carnegie Hall J. When it was over, everyone said that they had the best time ever, and called me the hostess of hostesses. It made me feel really good to know that my efforts in putting it all together were a huge success.

Anyway, never lacking in the opportunity of doing things here, my preaching schedule is always pretty much packed. I have had the privilege of preaching at many Sunday services and also midweek services. Rena, I am so thankful we took some voice lessons from Rachelle; they are coming in handy. She was right, I am a soprano. Now I am discovering and also realizing that I can sing both soprano and alto. Our choir directress has me doing quite a bit of canting, and I have also done two solos thus far. Three weeks ago, we held our annual healing service by which I brought forth the message. It was very rewarding to personally lay hands on people, pray for their needs and concerns, and anoint them with oil. The power of prayer is never to be underestimated. Before the service was over, people were commenting on how better they felt; and how their burdens felt lighter or lifted from their shoulders. God is truly amazing and also good.

The 5th graders will take their first communion at our Maundy Thursday service tonight, and I had the privilege of making each student a Stoll to commemorate this event. There was some grumbling among many of the parents stating that the 1st Communion service was not very special or memorable enough. I solved the problem by rendering the suggestions of making some stolls and decorating them with the different communion symbols: the chalice, bread, and cross; plus, the suggestion of having a special cake baked with the same symbols designed on it. The pastors and others in the meeting overwhelmingly liked the ideas, and therefore asked me to begin working on them right away. Now, with all of this, it is sure to be memorable.

The pastors and I have also been traveling extensively to conferences and intern cluster meetings which have been intriguing in some instances. The discussions in the meetings were on human sexuality, theophastic prayer, and charitable gift annuity. I was taught a lot from it which will be most helpful in pastoring a congregation later.

Truly, this internship has been a rewarding experience in many ways, and I am very blessed to have been called here and placed under such great leadership. I am learning much and have been taught lots. And I give all honor and praises to God only for such a wonderful experience.
WOW! As the cartoon character Snagal Pusc always would say when it was time to go: “Exit! Stage right…left even!” In other words, it is time for me to take my bow and make my exit once again. Remember also that we are Easter people. We rejoice in the fact that our Savior has indeed risen. May your Easter experiences strengthen your faith in almighty God. Happy Resurrection Day! I am praying for you.

In Christ’s Love and Joy,
Natacha
Luke 24:1-12

Hey All

2005-03-23T14:43:00.000-06:00

Internship Uncensored

The prodigal blogger has returned. I have been keeping up on all of your goings and comings but have been neglective in sharing my own. Lent has been busy for me as you have all experienced as well. My internship supervisor has been granted a sabbatical by the church council here for April, May and June so I have been busy trying to prepare for running solo for the next three months. Well, not really solo, sliding into the copilot seat as God continues to guide the congregation. It is a great opportunity and I am looking forward to it with very little apprehension. The people here are great and I do not foresee any problems. It will be a lot of work to preach every Sunday but what the heck, it will give me plenty of material to work with when I head to my first call, let alone the experience.

We are wrapping up the finishing touches on our new sanctuary that we will be worshipping in for the first time on Easter. It looks great and people are really excited. We had a 'Standing on the Promises' service two weeks ago and all went into the new worship area and wrote Bible verses on the floor before they laid down the carpet. Pretty cool to walk in there now and as you walk remember the particular verses that you know lie under your feet.

Hope all of you have a blessed Easter. Lift his name on high!!!!

Bones

Hey Everybody

2005-03-23T11:08:00.000-06:00

You have got to check out Christopher and Rebecca's wedding web page it is awesome. Great picture, by the way. This is the first time I have been in awedding, other than my own, of course. I am so honored to be a part of this wonderful start to a new life. Thank you.
Love and prayers

Wedding Webpage....

2005-03-22T09:34:00.000-06:00

Well, if anyone's curious, here's a link to Rebecca's and my webpage for our wedding. When we get invitations out (hopefully by tomorrow at the latest), people will be able to RSVP through the website! Pretty sweet! Enjoy snooping around!

http://weddings.theknot.com/pwp/view/co_main.aspx?coupleid=3244249592267067&guestpassword=

Take care!

Still in the Making....

2005-03-17T16:07:00.000-06:00

Hi All,

I am still putting together my post. I became sidetracked with things that came up abruptly. Most of it preparing for Holy Week. My update will be posted no later than next week. Hang tight! Have a blessed Palm Sunday!

In Christ's Love,
Natacha

OK, time to breathe.....

2005-03-15T14:55:00.000-06:00

Hey folks. Many moons have passed since I last regailed you with tales from the prairie. That's primarily because the time I usually used to post here has been taken up by more important tasks, also known as planning for my wedding. The day is May 21, in case you didn't know, so we're running fast and furious to the finish line. My duty as of late has been getting the guest list set up, so our guests can RSVP online, and we can get invitations out. Yee haw! :D

As for internship, things are well. I just got done with mid-year evals, which were mostly painless. I also finished my section of teaching confirmation, which was an adventure. As you may recall, I was teaching a section on "Lutheran Identity". 3 kids failed the test I gave them, which I thought was a softball. For example, one question said, "Jesus is also known as the ___ of ____.", while another gave these three as the other options for who Luther's wife was: Joan of Arc, Helen of Troy, and Jennifer Lopez. So, of course, I had one student answer the first question: "Jesus is also known as the Joan of Arc." Rather exasperating. But, we're still gonna get-r-done.

Holy Week is fast approaching, and I'm looking forward to it. I get to give three "meditations" on Good Friday (We're doing the seven "last words"; I get "Father forgive them", "Why have you forsaken me?", and "It is finished."), and I get to preach at the early service on Easter morning! It should be pretty fun.

Well, back to work. God bless all of you!

In Christ's Hope,
Christopher

Spock!

2005-03-15T14:22:00.000-06:00

Hello again, everyone!
I hope that all is well with everyone. I have just recently completed another major task of my internship: a confirmation retreat. I must say that I was dreading the prospect of heading off to the Erzgebirge (Iron Mountains) in the southern part of this state of Sachsen with a group of twenty some seventh grade German kids, but it really turned out very well.
There were four leaders, including myself. My supervisor was there, as was the youth director and another female chaperone. It was a blessing to get to know some of these kids a little better, and I was very impressed with how intelligent they are. I've realized that my German isn't as bad as I often think it is after dealing with this group. As I was the token "international person," the retreat provided me with the chance to be a unique witness to these kids. They were also entertained when I sang some popular songs from back home. For example, one of the girls had a sheet of paper with the text for the song "My Heart Will Go On" from Titanic, and I sang it for the whole group. It was quite fun.
I also participated in a high ropes course (yes, in winter with tons of snow) that was on the grounds of the retreat center where we stayed. The last time I did anything like that, I was a camp counselor at Flathead Lutheran Bible Camp in Montana. It was considerably more difficult to give and receieve directions in German, but it worked out. Bible studies with the kids also went well in spite of my language limitations. I also had the chance to help serve these kids their first communion. It really was a memorable experience.
It's hard to believe that the time has gone this quickly. I have less than five months left. Let's keep up the good work until the end!
Later,
Tom

Latest News Coming Soon...

2005-03-11T14:51:00.000-06:00

Hola!

Yes, tis been quite a while since we all checked in. It is in fact a busy Lent for me, but one with many experiences, opportunities, laughter, and adventures. I am writing an update for you all that I will post Sunday or Monday. In the meantime, my prayers are with you all as you journey with Christ to the Cross during this Lenten season. Via con Dios!

In Christ's Love,
Natacha

Busy Lent

2005-03-10T13:32:00.000-06:00

Hello fellow interns,

I hope that you are all doing well and that the business of Lent is not becoming to much for anyone. Things are going very well here at St. Tim's, the weather is starting to get really nice, it's been in the 70's this week and today it should get into the 80's, with crisp blue skies and green mountain sides. I can't believe that we are half done with our internships, I have a little less then 5 months to go, and it is really starting to go fast. Lent of course is busy, with the added services, as well as confirmation and soup suppers, but it has been very fun to be here in this place and to go through the church cycles of business with Christmas and now Lent and Easter. Not much else going on here, I think I'm going to start spending some of my days off at the beath in Santa Cruz watching the surfers etc, and exploring the area, I'm only 70 miles from Monteray and Pebble Beach, so I need to make it down there before my time is done. So God bless you all during this time and I hope that you are all doing very well!

In Christ
Jared

Checking in...

2005-03-09T14:23:00.000-06:00

Dear Friends,
Things do indeed seem to be moving rather slowly on the blog of late. I hope that everyone is doing well and that this time of year is not coming down too hard on anyone. When you get the chance, let everyone know how things are going.
The last time I posted was before I departed for England. I had a good time in Berlin, and then I flew to London on a really cheap airline called RyanAir. I got into London fairly late at night, and by the time I reached the center of the city where my hostel was, it was already 2:00 AM. Hostels are really not always the nicest places to stay, but usually pretty cheap. I saw the main sights in London the next day, but didn't get to go inside Buckingham Palace and places such as that. Later in the day, I went to King's Cross train station, which is, like I said, the station where Harry Potter leaves from in order to go to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry every year. I went to the city of York next, followed by Durham. Coincidentally, Durham cathedral is where parts of the Harry Potter movies were filmed. I then went north into Scotland, Edinburgh specifically. The next day, I went to Stirling, where William Wallace defeated a much superior English force at the Battle of Stirling Bridge, incorrectly shown by the movie Braveheart, by the way. It was a great experience to be in this museum, which is in a large tower overlooking the countryside. I then retraced my steps all the way back to London, where I flew out back to Berlin six days after arriving.
I stayed overnight in Leipzig after arriving very late, and I got on a train to Prague the next morning. Prague was beautiful, yet snowy at the time. I quickly learned that trains in this part of Europe are not exactly of the highest quality! It was fairly creepy being stopped at the borders between countries such as the Czech Republic, Poland, and Slovakia, but everything worked out. I went to the Polish cities of Katowice and Krakow next, which was a lot of fun. I got to see the death camps of Auschwitz and Birkenau, which was not much fun, but very eye opening and important to experience. For the last leg of my journey, I went to Bratislava, Slovakia. I know many people down there from our ELCA global orientation in the summer. I love that city, even though I almost got into a brawl with a person in a cafe across from the train station. I didn't instigate it. I was sitting in a cafe writing a story and drinking a soda when a presumably mentally disturbed person came over and started accusing me a being greedy for sitting in the cafe and writing a story. I normally like to avoid conflict such as this, and so I was calm at first. After he repeated himself twice, I told him to turn around and mind his own business. He pretended that he couldn't hear me, and so I told him the same thing again. He told me to be cafeful in a threatening sort of way, and I just gave him a death stare. That was the end of the encounter, thankfully. It gives one a lot to think about. While I think it is important to live at peace with others, it is also important that we not allow ourselves to be violated. On a happier note, I got to see Vienna the next day. Beautiful, but also very expensive. I think the German accents that they have in Austria are funny, as they differ a great deal from where I currently am.
I made it back to Leipzig successfully after a long train journey. I probably spent a little too much money, but it's a once in a lifetime experience. I will be in Leipzig until May 8th, when I return to Wittenberg for the last three months of my time in Germany. Pray for me in my tasks here. I will most certainly remember to do so for all of you.
All the best,

Tom

Counting down

2005-03-08T09:29:00.000-06:00

Hey my blogger kids - where is everyone? I know Lent is a hectic season. I hope that you all are pacing yourself. Remember when you have a parish on your own, there will be no supervisor to help take turns or tell you when to slow down. BREATHE, breathe. I am praying for each one of you. The good news is for you to hear and own as well as say and give.
Love and prayers

Prayer request

2005-02-24T14:50:00.000-06:00

Hi everyone. some time before I figured out this event and Lent coincided I agree to be the presentor at the Women's retreat at LutherCrest Bible Camp. I will be doing five session each an hour long. Yuall pray for me now. A little scary, but I am looking forward to the time away from the rest of the world. I love LutherCrest. Otherwise my world is going along quickly and smoothly, except for the creeping crud, which the whole world seems to be suffering from off and on. Hope you all stay healthy.
Love and prayers

Aboard the Hogwarts Express...

2005-02-14T08:50:00.000-06:00

Today is the first official day of my vacation, but since I had the weekend free as well, I came up here to Berlin for the weekend and visited the other international intern in Germany who is at the American church in Berlin. We went to the Dietrich Bonhoeffer house on Marienburger Allee. I saw his attic room where he wrote many things, and I even had the chance to sit at his actual desk. Berlin is quite a different experience from the part of Germany that I am in. It is a very international city with a lot of activity. I actually thought that I would be at this international congregation in Berlin when I applied for the international site. Mine has worked out very well, though.

Tonight, I fly to London to begin my first two weeks of vacation. I plan on seeing many different things in the entire UK. I especially hope to be able to see monuments of William Wallace, made famous from Mel Gibson's movie Braveheart.

The train station that I will be going out of in London is called Kings Cross Station. It is the same station that Harry Potter leaves from every year when he goes to Hogwarts school of Witchcraft and Wizardry. I didn't think it was an actual place. Mostly, I'm looking forward to going to an English speaking country.

That's all for now, folks. I hope you're doing well. More news of my adventures in a later installment.

Professor Mervin J. Zilsdorf, Ph.D, Th.D, M.Div, M.A., B.A., C.P.A., C.N.M., D.Min
Department of Theatrical Music Ministries
Univeristy of Sioux City, IA

Check-In from New England

2005-02-10T13:10:00.000-06:00

Hello everyone!

First, let me extend my congradulations to you Chris. I'm happy for you both.
Second, an update. Sorry for not posting in awhile. Life just got really crazy here and I've found myself with little time to write for this blog. I do love reading the postings, and I'm glad that all of you are doing well.

We've entered Lent, and we had a wonderful Ash Wednesday morning and evening service. I didn't preach, but had another role in worship. I just got back from my 3rd of 4 intern clusters. Most of the students in the cluster are from Gettysberg and Philly. The students from Philly are pretty cool and I've made friends with them. The synod staff is great, and the other pastors in the cluster are great too. I made two presentations for this particular cluster, one on post modernism, and the other on Generational Characateristics, they went great. It was fun putting those together and delievering them.

Internship continues to go very well. I am so happy here in Avon, CT and at St. Matthew. Bill (my supervisor) is a great teacher. And I am his last intern. The associate pastor will supervise the next intern and he'll do a great job too. We've just entered into a capital campaign which is a good challenge for these people and this place.

Well blessing to your lent.
Rachel L. Oldfather

I'm giving up being single for Lent! :D

2005-02-10T09:34:00.000-06:00

Hello my friends. Things are going well in the land of Miller. Rebecca and I have begun planning for our wedding, which we're going to "turn around" pretty quick. In other words: our tentative date is May 21. Yeeesh. We're gonna do it, though. I know we can get it done.

As for ministry, things are going pretty well. I have a communion visit either today or tomorrow where the lady specifically asked for me, so that makes me feel good. Last night was kind of harrowing. Ash Wednesday services were at 7. I got a call from my supervisor at 5:45 saying we had a call and we needed to go. Come to find out that the brother of one of our members committed suicide, and they wanted us to accompany them to tell his mother. That was really hard, folks. Plus, we come to find out that this woman lost four close relatives in a four-year span, including her first husband to suicide. So, we spent as much time there as we could, and then hightailed it back to town for services. I also had not changed into my clerical shirt yet, so I had to run to the house to change, to my office to get my mic, and then to the front of the church to start the service. Ah, the fun of ministry. :D

I hope things are well with you all, and thanks for all the congratulations. Jared, I hope your planning is less stressful than mine will be, and I wish you the best of luck as well. God bless!

In Christ's Hope,
Christopher

CONGRATS!!!

2005-02-08T14:08:00.000-06:00

Congratulations Miller! I am so excited for you and Rebecca. What a romantic and cute way to "pop the question"!

May God's love, guidance, and blessing be upon you and Rebecca as your journey begins in this new and exciting phase in life. God hand-made you both in a special way for each other. Enjoy your walk together.

Love and joy to all,
Natacha
1 Corinthians 13:13

One time I thought I had mono for a whole year...

2005-02-08T13:44:00.000-06:00

Hello everyone. Congrats, Miller! I have my own reason to celebrate. Of course, it is not nearly as big of a deal as engagement. I have passed the halfway mark for my time in Germany. I'm sure that many of you are reaching the midpoint of your internships as well. The many things coming up, though, will keep me from simply coasting through these last six months, that's for sure. I am looking forward to my vacation time coming up soon. I will be taking two weeks starting on February 14th. I will be going to England and Scotland for about a week, and then I will be going to different parts of eastern Europe. It is a much needed vacation. I also get to take two weeks of vacation in June, at which point my brother will come and visit me. So, with a month of vacation thrown into this last half, things should go rather quickly.

Randy Nelson came for a few days this last week for my site visit, and it was good to talk to someone from back home. From his report, things seem to be going will with the internship program in general and thing also seem to be going well at the seminary. I really am looking forward to seeing all of you when we return next year. Then we can process all of our experiences.

I wish you all the best,

Tom

WOOHOO

2005-02-07T10:53:00.000-06:00

CONGRATULATIONS Christopher. You are a very lucky person. Rebecca is wonderful. She is also a very lucky person, because I think you are wonderful too.
Love and prayers

Momentous Occasion!

2005-02-01T17:58:00.000-06:00

Hi folks. You know that I haven't posted on here very frequently lately. Primarily, that's because my free time has been taken up by a wonderful woman by the name of Rebecca, who many of you know. We have been spending as much time as we can together, and we have fallen hopelessly in love. This morning, at about 4 am, she found me lying outside her door, with a sign above my head that read, "I can't sleep without you near." She woke me up, and I told her that I loved her more than anything in this world, and I asked her to marry me. She said yes! We haven't set a date or anything like that yet, but it will be fairly soon. There will be much more to come for us, and I'm looking forward to seeing how this affects my time for ministry. But folks, she's so worth it. She is the love of my life and I can't wait to spend the next 50-60 years getting to know her deeper and deeper. God bless you all! I'm gonna go smile some more! :D :D :D

Time Flies When You're Having Fun!!!

2005-01-31T14:50:00.000-06:00

Happy Hello Web Family!!

Somebody, please, pinch me to make certain that I am not merely asleep and dreaming, but wide awake! If things continue to become any better for me than they already are at this site, then I may just have to start getting beside myself. That is all there is to it!

I finally found the time out of my busy schedule to do some posting. I am kind of like the Energizer bunny around here; just keep going and going and going...smile! But I love every minute of it.

Goodness gracious, it has been just as cold here in Wisconsin (Brrrrrrr!). How cold is it you ask? It is so cold; the dairy farmers had to actually go out to put heat lamps underneath the cows to keep them from giving ice cream--Ha! Ha! How cold is it? In driving out to a meeting in the country one day, I looked and actually saw a snowman trying to take shelter inside of a barn. That is just how cold it was here-Ha!

In putting all joking aside; my Christmas was absolutely fantastic. Truly, I did not realize how so very much the different members in this congregation cared for me. The gifts ranged from a beautiful framed writing ministry, on down to a sculptured figurine, a silver Christmas tree dinner bell, boxes of candy and nuts, and a considerable amount of cash and gift certificates stuffed inside of greeting cards. The icing on the cake was when each staff member received a special Christmas bonus aside from their regular salary. Believe me; I am really going to miss this place when the time comes. Especially if they keep spoiling me as they are doing. I had poinsettias coming out of my ears. Four potted plants would you believe. So therefore, I decided to share the other three.

The circle Christmas party went quite well also. WOW! Do they ever celebrate big time. I was most impressed :). The first one I attended, one lady in the group prepared everything herself. The place was beautifully decorated with different themes, and a variety of food was prepared. She served fried chicken, baked beans, potato salad, macaroni salad, rolls, and so on. They asked me to read the story of Jesus’ Birth from the Bible (they love to hear me because I read with excitment and life). Afterwards, we all gathered around to sing Christmas songs. The senior and associate pastors and their spouses were present, and also the spouses of each circle member. Everyone received a Christmas gift (a cute survival kit) as well, and I did the closing prayer to end our time together. It was marvelous darling! Just simply marvelous...smile!

The second WELCA circle had everything catered. Food covered the tables and live evergreens decorated with Christmas ornaments and poinsettia plants accented each dinning table. This one was held at the church in Fellowship Hall. As it ended, I was asked to stay around for a few minutes. This particular circle makes a whole lot of quilts. So when I did, they took me over to a table full of quilts in order for me to choose one for myself. I thought it was a very sweet gesture, and therefore choose one with roses in it :). I was also given one of their poinsettia plants. As I said before...marvelous daring; simply marvelous--Ha!

Nevertheless, as with Thanksgiving, I was booked solidly with church duties, and therefore could not go home for Christmas. As I stated earlier, Mom and my brother came to be with me in order for us to celebrate it altogether. How so very special I am to them. Mom says that she is taking advantage of every opportunity to be with me, because when my husband comes along, he will come first (which is the way it should be)--ha! She is a very wise mother who is going to make a mighty great mother-in-law one of these days.

Anyhow, I preached the Christmas Day sermon in which there was a rather nice turnout. As in the beginning, when I brought forth my very first sermon here, I received some good compliments. I give all the honor to God. It is said my messages are inspiring and gives hope. They also like how I bring out my main points for a clearer understanding, and stay on the subject at the same time.

During the process (of the holidays), we also had a funeral to do. The senior pastor assigned the whole thing to me. He and the associate pastor were not present. But, I had confidence in myself. I was told by the family afterwards how so pleased they were over the job I did. The musicians and I went to dinner when all was done. We also received the extra pay that comes with the job...nice.

I have also been asked to baptisms. But after inquiring with the senior pastor concerning it, I learned one must be ordained or get special permission from the bishop. I felt badly about it when informing the person, but rules are rules. They were sort of disappointed but understood.

Another WELCA circle asked if I could do their Bible Study for this month, because I bring so much into it when I do. I wasn't sure at the time, and needed to check my schedule before committing. When I did, just so happen the pastor assigned this circle to me for the month along with one other. That one ended on a happy note.

However, one surprising thing did happen to me that I least expected. A young lady came up to me at church whom I had never met, and introduced herself. She made the statement of wanting to personally meet me when she came to town because of hearing so much about me. Therefore, she came to the church to do just that. I said, “Hopefully it was all good.” Her replay was, “Everything was good.” I didn't get to find out what "things", because she appeared to be in somewhat of a hurry. She resides in another town, but was home (here) for Christmas. It all seemed somewhat unusual, but I guess not necessarily out of the ordinary. Goodness, developing a name for myself already?

Well, I cooked the entire Christmas meal by myself. I wanted Mom to only relax and enjoy. Let's see, I skipped preparing my usual cornbread stuffing from scratch, and purchased a packed mix to take the shortcut (which wasn't such a bright idea). I made the dinner rolls a little too flat, and cut my potatoes with my new chopper a little too small for the potato salad :). I kind of got a little tisy carried away with it--tee hee! Other than that, everything went rather great, and the food tasted quite delicious; the turkey, ham, gravy, and so on.

Anyway, while my Mom and brother were here, I tried to do some entertaining things with them in spite of my busy schedule. We took in a couple of movies; Christmas with the Kranks, and The Incrdibles. They were both great. However, The Incredibles seemed action filled all the way through (in case some of you have not seen one or the other yet). All three of us enjoyed them immensely. I also drove them down to the park to see the huge display of Christmas lights, and to hear the Christmas music being played. It was quite awesome.

We took advantage of the motel gift certificate too, and thoroughly enjoyed our stay. I soaked in the relaxing, hot whirlpool and my brother took to the swimming pool. Mom chose to stay relaxing in the room watching all the special TV channels. It was really nice, and I am glad that we went...it was a great getaway. Sorry about that, Tom :). Great humor though--ha!

Our New Years was rather quite amusing. We were invited out to a big house party, but Mom declined. Instead she chose to watch all the festivities on TV that brought the New Year in. Otherwise, she would have attended church to bring it in had a service been available. Nevertheless, I enjoyed the quality time we had together. My brother could not hold up and fell asleep--Ha!

For goodness sakes, I have just about overstayed my time with you fine people. So I better look at closing soon. Informing you of my earlier happenings will have to come next time.

I have also started teaching a five week class called Discovering Your Spiritual Gifts; God’s Plan for Your Life. Plus, I am working hard at putting together a test for the confirmation youth to see how much they have absorbed the last three months. We are just finishing up our study of the Old Testament. They did quite well once I gave a clearer understanding of the test. So as you all can tell, I have been just busy, busy, and busy.

I must take my bow and make my exit. Have a great and God-centered New Year!! :).

In Jesus’ never-ending love, peace, and joy,
Natacha
2 Timothy 3:12-17; 4:1-5

From snowy Connecticut

2005-01-28T10:21:00.000-06:00

Thats right folks...we are up to our armpits in snow and cold here in lovely Connecticut. And it's been so cold lately. I know I'm from Minnesota, I should be used to it right (yea, well if one more person says that to me here, I'm going to push them into a snow bank.)

We're forward thinkers out here, and so we've begun the conversation around Lent...the preaching schedule and the theme. We're focusing on A.C.T.S.I (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication, and Intercession) It should be kinda cool.

Well....I hope everyone is keeping warm.

Rachel

Been a long time....

2005-01-25T14:31:00.000-06:00

Hey folks. It's been about a month since I last posted, not because I haven't wanted to, but because much has been going on around these parts. If I'm not off at a class, worship, or a game for some of my confirmation kids, I'm up in the Cities seeing my gal. A chicken sans head comes to mind. :D

But seriously, things are going really well. I've preached twice since Christmas, and I've begun to teach the large group section of our confirmation class. This section is entitled "What is a Lutheran?", so it's right up my alley. I'm preparing a session overviewing the sacraments right now. I've also switched to teaching the adult class on Sundays from the JHSS. We're going through "The Freedom of a Christian". It should be interesting. :D We've got our annual meeting coming up in about a week and a half, so that should be fun.

One of my fun outlets is found on oldlutheran.com. They have a "Table Talk" board which anything and everything gets talked about. It's my theological outlet. Go check it out if you have time.

Otherwise, things are hunky dory. God bless!

In Christ's Hope,
Christopher

p.s. Closed circuit to Rena: Who says you can't be big and tender? ;)

Ich bin Wittenberger

2005-01-19T06:28:00.000-06:00

It has indeed been a long time since I've written, but it certainly hasn't been because of lack of things to talk about. I have simply been so busy this last month that I couldn't really find time to think through all of the things I've done.

I celebrated the New Year in Leipzig, and then came back to Wittenberg on my birthday, January 2. As is usually the case, I had to travel on my birthday, but I actually got the chance to be around some people I knew, which was a new experience. (Since my birthday is always during Christmas break, I am hardly ever surrounded by friends). Wittenberg is really much quieter and smaller than Leipzig, which is a nice change of pace.

In the month of January, we had three groups in town from various places. One group was the seminary immersion group (no Luther students), which was fun to work with. I coordinated morning worship with these people. Another group was from Luther and Loras colleges. Luther college is obviously a Lutheran school and Loras college happens to be a Catholic school. There were ten students from each school, and they spent a week in Rome and a week in Wittenberg in order to see how minority religious groups function in areas that are dominated by a certain group. The other group, which is still here, is a group from Dana College in Nebraska. I have had the chance to lead these people around Wittenberg, providing Reformation education with the best possible visual aids. I also have had the chance to lead them in Leipzig and show them my internship congregation, the St. Thomas Church.

It's been a busy month so far, but a good one. Things quiet down a little in February, and I get two weeks of vacation in the middle of the month. I plan on flying to England on a really cheap ticket out of Berlin. From there, I think I will be going north to Scotland in order to see William Wallace monuments and sites. Should be fun. Then I plan on going back to the mainland and seeing the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland, and if I have time, Hungary. Should be fun.

Oh, I forgot to mention: I've been involved in top secret government activities. OK, that's probably a little bit of an exaggeration. However, at the end of December, I got to do something that most interns wouldn't normally get the chance to do. The US ambassador to Germany wanted a tour of the St. Thomas Church in Leipzig due to its historic significance. So, being as I am the only English speaking person on the staff of the church, I was asked to translate the comments made by the associate pastor for the ambassador and his wife and children. Not exactly top secret, but interesting nonetheless.

Best Wishes,

Herr Vikar Thomas Jacobson

Welcome to spring

2005-01-17T14:50:00.000-06:00

Well Rena I hate to do this to you, but today it's suppose to get up to 65 and by Wednesday it's suppose to get close to 70 here in San Jose. I can't say that I miss the cold weather you are having, but having family close by can more then make up for the cold. Things are going really good here for me, I really like the congregation and I feel like I am truly a part of the pastoral staff. It's hard to believe that next month at this time is my half way point, the time is really starting to go by fast now. I hope that everyone is doing well and that you mid-year evals go well!

In Christ
Jared

Frozen

2005-01-17T09:49:00.000-06:00

No one has posted for a long time and I am willing to bet you are not as frozen as I am. It is 35 below zero here today and that is without the wind chill. Holy crow, what am I doing here? Oh yeah, that's what you get when you marry a viking. Oh well, it has been a GREAT 27 years. How is everyone? We are getting an associate pastor here at Trinity. His name is Hans Anderson and he will start Feb 1. Some (many) people were afraid that if they voted for him to come then I would have to leave. After explaining to everyone at the congregational meeting that I would be staying until July 31st the vote was unanimous to call Hans. Yeah!! Hans' wife Erin will be the new Music Coordinator and Karl will keep us all in line. Karl is Hans and Erin's 4-month-old son. We are gearing up for Lent already and with three pastor's and an intern in the mix we shouldn't have to much burn out here.

Any one that wants to come visit is more than welcome. It was great to see Christopher and Rebecca. Stay warm.
Love and prayers

Prayer of a Young Preacher

2005-01-04T14:28:00.000-06:00

I'll probably have a longer post later in the week, but I wanted to respond to Bones' question. I did a quick search in my Luther's Works CD-ROM for it, but I could not find it. It might be in the Table Talk. I originally found it (and still have it) in "Luther's Prayers", edited by Herbert Brokering. For those who are wondering what we're talking about, this is Luther's "Prayer of a Young Preacher":

Dear God, I have begun to preach, and to teach the people. It is hard. If it offends here and there, may no harm be done. Since you have commanded me to preach your Word, I will not stop. If it fails, it fails for you. If it succeeds, it succeeds for you and me. Amen.

Luther's Prayer of a Young Preacher

2005-01-04T13:26:00.000-06:00

You know if I would post more often I would not have to get a new password everytime I try to log in!!! I could benefit from writing such things down I guess. How about a little help here, Christopher. Where in Luther's works is the 'Prayer of a young preacher?' I can not for the life of me find it.

Glad to hear that all is going well for everyone. Things continue to move along with me as well. Nothing particularily noteworthy to report. Waiting for the Jan 13 announcement concerning the recommendations from the Human Sexuality Study committee and the fallout that will surely follow regardless of what is stated. God Bless everyone's New Year!

Bones

technically speaking

2005-01-03T09:56:00.000-06:00

It is still Christmas and the greeting could still be Merry Christmas. I also wish you all a very Happy New Year. I hope that your Christmas was blessed. My children were both home for Christmas Eve Day. Michael, pharmacy technician had to work Christmas Day, and then to Tanya's (his significant other) parents. Carla had to be at Kenny's (her significant other) parents Christmas Day. Christmas Day one of David's sisters and her partner came to our house. So it was a different but good Christmas. I did the Christmas Day service one of the Nursing homes here in Brainerd. I always love that privilege. This week I get to do 5 nursing home services. I am also speaking at the Golden Kiwanas on Wednesday. They want to know how a North Dakota farm girl ended up doing internship in Brainerd at the age of 45. Should be easy I know a lot about that topic. We had three services on Christmas Eve 3:00, 4:30 and 11:00 all very pretty and different, yet the same. The message was and is so imbedded in our tradition that we don't even think about what it is, just how to present it so someone else will see the wonder of the new baby given to us.
May you see the new baby when you look to the altar and to the cross.
Love and prayers

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

2004-12-31T10:54:00.000-06:00

New Years Greetings Everyone!

I pray that all had a blessed Christmas, and was surrounded by friends and family. My Christmas was fun, relaxing, and wonderful. My family is with me through New Years so I am grateful for that. At one point, it was a bit stressful preparing for and doing the Christmas Eve and Day services, plus the Sunday services. But the pastoral staff got through it successfully with God's guidance and help. Many parishoners gave positive feedback saying the services were Christ-centered and excellently done. I will write more on that later plus other latest happenings. Right now I need to continue revising my sermon for this Sunday's services.

Does anyone have any New Years resolutions for 2005? I am writing down a few for myself. With God's strength, I will be successful in accomplishing them. I pray God's protection over each one of you and your families, and may the New Year bring you the peace, joy, and comfort only God can give. Have a blessed New Year!

In Jesus' Love,
Natacha
Psalm 100

Happy Festivus!

2004-12-23T16:07:00.000-06:00

I bring Festivus greetings to all of you on this 23rd of December. For those of you who don't know, Festivus is the holiday that the Costanza family on Seinfeld instituted in place of Christmas. I find it very funny. Instead of a Christmas tree, they had a bare aluminum pole. Then, the celebration wouldn't end until the head of the family was pinned in a wrestling match with someone else.

Of course, I would never want to get rid of Christmas. The meaning behind it really is good news for the whole world. We have many services here at St. Thomas as well, but I really don't have to do much until the 26th, where I sing liturgy in the morning and preach in the evening. So, I get to experience things from an observer's point of view, which is nice from time to time.

Wishing you all a very merry Christmas,

Tom Jacobson

Christmas Cheer ala Connecticut

2004-12-23T13:22:00.000-06:00

This past Sunday we had our Christmas pageant and then the youth and I decorated the Christmas tree (which was my job to get). They did a great job! It's raining here and as long as the temperature doesn't get any warmer will have enough snow to say its a white Christmas.

Tomorrow night we have our Christmas eve services, three of them...nothing like an endurance trial at Christmas. Then Christmas morning I am bound for cold Minnesota! I need the rest!

Merry Christmas everyone! God's Blessings, on the start of your new year!

Rachel

Christmas Cheer...

2004-12-21T09:58:00.000-06:00

...to one and all this year!

Last week for me was a pretty busy one. We had my internship committee meeting at my house this time, so we could eat and celebrate the season and share some fellowship. It was pretty fun. Wednesday, we had our Sr FLY "roundtable" discussion about heaven and the afterlife. One of the questions was about how we can be sure we're going to heaven, and so that was right up my alley. I read a little bit o' Luther, and brought the Word. It felt like the most pure preaching I've done so far. We also decided that for next month's roundtable, we're going to watch Luther! That makes me happy. :D On Sunday, I did pretty much the entire liturgy, save for the sermon and the words of institution. Then we had our Sr FLY Christmas party, and then I headed solo to Albert Lea and Mason City to make a couple of pastoral visits. All in all, a busy week.

Here's my story of the moment, though. Yesterday, I went to the Cities to pick up my girlfriend and bring her home to Clear Lake for Christmas. When I leave my house, it's heavy freezing rain. The roads in the Cities are pretty much horrible. As I'm at about mile marker 80 (8 mi S of the E/W split) traveling north on 35, this Tacoma pickup two cars in front of me makes a hard right into the guardrail underneath this overpass. I've got enough time to hit my left turnsignal to let people behind me know I'm going left. The guy bounces off the guardrail and slides into the left lane. I can't go back right, because I'll crash into an SUV-looking thing that's still back there. So, much like at Daytona, I take it into the infield, aka the median. In the grass, I can get enough traction and momentum to get my car out and back up onto the road, and continue on down the line. All this happened in about 15 seconds. Luckily, the rest of the trip there and back was uneventful.

This week, I'm preaching on Sunday, because my supervisor is going to be gone from Christmas Day night until New Year's Eve Day. So, during this week of preparation, I'll be preparing for a solo shot at ministry. We have Christmas Eve services at 5 and 11, so hopefully the Purple have built up a 30-point lead by 5 (yeah, right). So, I may not post next week, or the next, because once my supervisor comes back, my girlfriend and I are heading way north (home) so I can show her around my old haunts and such. God bless us, everyone! :D

In Christ's Hope,
Christopher

California Hello

2004-12-16T10:13:00.000-06:00

Hey everyone, I hope that all is going well for you in your internships. I can't believe that at the end of this month I will have been here for 4 months, time has been flying by and I don't think there are any signs of it slowing down until I leave here July 31st. Things here have been great, it is really fun to work with such a great staff of pastors and having the day school here is a lot of fun. I think I'm also finally getting used to California, it is just now beginning to feel a bit like fall as it is in the mid 40's in the morning and usually get up into the mid 60's during the day somedays even topping out at 70. But I've been told that this will only last a few more months before the weather starts getting nicer. I'm also finally used to the traffic, with around a million people in San Jose it can get pretty congested, so I've had to learn patients when driving. Unfortunately I won't be able to make it home for Christmas, I was back in the cities over the 1st weekend of December and spent Christmas with my family at that time, but Jessi will be coming out the 26st and staying until January 3rd, we are spending new years in San Francisco, so that should be a lot of fun. I hope that you are all having a great internship so far and that it continues to be so, I hope you have a wonderful Christmas and a happy New Years.

In Christ
Jared

Hey web family

2004-12-16T09:44:00.000-06:00

I see we grew while I was on vacation. That is awesome. Carla and I had a wonderful time. Just to rub it in a little the weather was between 78 and 83 the whole week. Carla swam and I waded in the ocean at Cozumel, Mexico.

Trinity has decided to continue with the internship program. Pastor Dave will go to campus in February to do the interviews. I was teasing him that he should tell me who he interviews and that I probably would know them. It is hard to believe that I am doing my mid-year evals already. This has become home and family to me, it will be very hard to go back to school.

Christmas will be here in one week. In many ways I am more ready than I have ever been. The small and silly things aren't done and it doesn't seem to bother me as much this year. Interesting!!! May your Holiday Season be blessed with family, friends, peace and joy.

Love and prayers

Silver Bells

2004-12-16T03:57:00.000-06:00

It really is amazing that even though the usual Christmas carols from the USA are not extremely well-known here, I have still found places where such songs are played: namely, the loudspeakers of shopping complexes. I was getting some groceries the other day, and I heard "Silver Bells" as well as "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen", among others. I felt transported back home for a brief moment.

It is a little strange being here during this time of the year. This this the first Christmas that I will be away from home for. Still, I appreciate all of the wonderful music that I have had and will have the chance to hear.

The ELCA Wittenberg Center, where I am at for half of the year, had its five year anniversary this last Sunday. It was neat to be able to attend, and to listen to German people from around the community express their appreciation for our presence in the town. I read a letter from my supervisor here, expressing his thanks at being able to have a cooperative project such as my internship.

When I came back to Leipzig that evening, I attended the English speaking Anglican congregation here in Leipzig, which meets in the community hall of a church that is affiliated with the St. Thomas Church. I had been meaning to get there for quite some time, but the many things I've had to do here have prevented me. We sang many Christmas carols, and it was wonderful to be there. Truly a blessing. Since I don't usually have weekend responsibilities (preaching, leading worship) on Sundays when I'm in Wittenberg, I may volunteer to preach at this congregation from time to time. I don't want it to interfere with anything I'm doing, which it won't. I think it is important for me to "keep my edge" in English. German is nice and everything, but nothing beats good old boring English for me!

I truly hope that things are going well with everyone. It was especially nice to hear from someone new on the blog, such as Rachel. Keep your chins up, and have a merry Christmas.

Oh, I forgot. Natascha, I would love to stay at the Econo Lodge, but I'm a little tied up here at the moment.

Tom

Coming home for Christmas

2004-12-14T14:07:00.000-06:00

I'm coming home for Christmas. Well, I'm flying home on Christmas day, we have three services Christmas eve and the associate Pastor is preaching Christmas 1. I do get to preach when I come back on the 2nd.

I find myself with a mix of feelings regarding this home coming, in late September my Grandpa was placed in a nursing home and it wasn't looking like he'd live much longer. Along with his nurseing home placement, came alot of conflict within my Mom's family. A lot of hurtful words have been said and division has occured.

I hear about this conflict over the phone lines and I get to live the first part of my vacation. I am excited about seeing Kevin and spending time with him, the long distence has been okay (thats putting the best construction on it) not ideal but doeable. He came out a couple of weeks ago and we spent a day in New York City.

So, though I have mixed feelings about coming home, I am looking forward to the rest that it will hopefully provide.

Have a blessed Holiday everyone.

Vicar Rachel L. Oldfather

The hardest time of the year....

2004-12-14T09:19:00.000-06:00

We always hear about the most wonderful time of the year when it comes to Christmas. We as pastors-in-training need to realize that for many (most?) folks, this time of year stinks. If you're not happy, you feel like you're outside of society's happiness, which is pretty much a sham to begin with. I had a harsh reminder of pain in the midst of joy this week with three funerals on consecutive days.

The first was a family who lost a son (33) to suicide. The second was a man (late 60s) who finally succumbed to cancer. The third was the grandfather of one of my confirmation kids who died suddenly in his sleep (66). These three in a row, plus going north Thursday AND Sunday to take care of a sick girlfriend, a wedding to do on Saturday, preaching on Sunday (one of my shortest sermons so far, unfortunately), and helping with the children's Christmas program Sunday afternoon, combined to make up one of the most stressful weeks I've had here so far. There was one moment during the committal of the second funeral that really got me. My supervisor and I did our part for the committal, and then a friend of the deceased played "The Cowboy Rides Away" which I had never heard before, but was one of his favorite songs, apparently. During the playing of the song, pretty much everyone is crying. Two of the daughters are even wailing. It's the toughest time I've had so far, coming face to face with pure, unadulterated grief. Good luck being the "non-anxious presence" in the middle of that. But, by the grace of God, I was able to be. Really tough.

As the Christmas season approaches, there's plenty to do. This next week includes my internship committee meeting tonight at my house (which means I need to clean! :D ), a roundtable discussion with our Sr FLY kids about Heaven (sweeet), and the Sr FLY Christmas party on Sunday. I don't preach Christmas, but I do preach the next day! My supervisor will be preaching at his home congregation on the 26th, so I get the task of post-Advent preaching on that day. For you and yours, I wish you the best for this Christmas season, and if you do get down in the dumps, just remember, Christ has to be born that he may die on the cross FOR YOU! Merry Christmas!

In Christ's Hope,
Christopher

Advent Season Joys abound...

2004-12-10T11:10:00.000-06:00

Hello! Hello! Hello!

What can I keep saying for myself except that I am yet having a great time here, and just as happy as a snow bird in the wintertime.

Once more I have been "on the road again", as country music singer Willie Nelson said in his famous song. I spent several days at Via de Cristo which the senior pastor and his wife sponsored on my behalf. They presented me with a Bible and special mug for just for the occasion. The focus was not on anything else but our relationship with God. All watches, cell phones, and calendars were prohibited. It was a time for setting aside all cares of the world (schedules, appointments, and so on) to relax and rejuvenate. It was very well worth my attending it.

Meanwhile, I also had to attend an intern cluster meeting along with the senior pastor. It was held out of town as well. Plus, I also attended Via de Cristo reunion. This second gathering was a reunion for everyone who went through it, both men and women. It was fun being all together meeting new people and seeing ones you became close to during the retreat. Once again, it was a great experience.

Well, my Thanksgiving went rather great. I was booked up to that day with church duties, and therefore could not go home to celebrate. So out of an act of love, both my Mom and brother came here to celebrate it with me. We had a marvelous time, and I thoroughly enjoyed their company. I preached the Thanksgiving Day sermon and afterwards, we all went downstairs in the Fellowship Hall for the Thanksgiving meal which had been prepared for all the members. Dinners were also sent out to the shut-in members who could not attend, plus a video of the worship service. A live band was hired to entertain as everyone feasted. The menu consisted of turkey, mashed potatoes w/ gravy, stuffing, corn, rolls, coffee, milk, pumpkin pie, and apple pie with whip cream. I told you that this church has it together.

The following night was the big annual parade which all the churches in town put on together. My brother and I rode on the church float and we had ourselves a grand time—ha! Every church had one. Floats of all shapes, sizes, and colors were around and so spectacular looking. It was nearly 90 floats plus several marching bands. Just entertainment everywhere.

I also want to mention something before going any farther, and also before I forget once more. Sometime back (I believe it was the last of October) I was given a gift certificate to Econo Lodge for any guest of mine who came to visit. It expires at the end of December I am sorry to say. I have been so busy since my arrival here until I just plain forgot to let people know of it. So if anyone is interested in using it, be sure to let me know. Otherwise, Mom says she will use it to keep it from going to waste…I am so sorry about this.

Anyhow, our church chancel guild had their Advent luncheon by which I was asked to attend and do the closing prayer. Needless to say the meal was delicious. The guest speaker was great and definitely held my attention all the way. The main focus of her speech was “Never give up in the midst of the storm. That is the time God is shaping you for the ministry he has set for you.” What outstanding advice in my opinion; and good food for thought for us when difficult times hit while on internship. Just keep our eyes on the prize that awaits us behind it all. The blessings of God are good.

Never ceasing for more to say, I have been invited to two different church circles’ annual Christmas parties. As you can tell, I am just all over the place. Everybody seems to be showing great love towards me in so many ways, and it is nothing but the goodness of Almighty God; all praises be to him. A short while back, I was preparing to purchase a small artificial Christmas tree to decorate my apartment for the holidays. Before going, I received a call from a member asking if I had one. In essence, she gave me hers which had not been used in years. Also, I was given two big, red chairs. I shared one with another lady who needed a chair badly. When Mom saw all this, of course her interior decorating abilities kicked in. She suggested a fancy back cushion and seat cushion for it since I had it in the bedroom. See what I mean? Just blessings galore. Well, I will make mention of some older happenings which occurred earlier on for me. Then I must make my exit.

Speaking of things for my apartment, Mom was absolutely amazed as to how nice the items given to me were when she saw them. And the best part is that I get to keep every bit for myself except the bed. In other words, upon graduation, I will have everything I need to set up housekeeping.

Also, when I first arrived here, the entire church threw me a big pantry party to which I had food coming out of my ears; I was given so much. And I yet have some. I was totally overwhelmed by such generosity. There are some good folks in this world regardless of what we see and experience at other times. And thank God for that. It is so inspiring.

The youth of the church also invited me out to their bonfire, and I had loads of fun playing games with them. I came back with some bumps and bruises, but I am competitive when it comes to sports. Before my departure, they all surprised me with a big basket of assorted items for my apartment and a certificate I could use any place in town. If you stay faithful to God, he will most certainly stay faithful to you…that is a fact.

Rena, thank you so much for your concern over me. It is so very loving of you. I promise I will slow down when I feel the need to, most certainly. I do realize that rest is required in order to stay healthy and focused, believe me. Jesus even rested. I am just trying to absorb all that I can along the way while the opportunity is presenting itself. I want to have a powerful and successful ministry in proclaiming the Gospel, and bring others into the knowledge of Christ. I want people, especially the youth I teach, to experience God and know him personally. If I don’t stay bright eyed and bushy tailed in my continuing effort…:), then I will definitely cut back. By the way, I hope your cruise goes exceptionally great for you and your daughter. How sweet that you have a good, close relationship with her. I have seen so many children who don’t have a good one with their parents, and it is so sad.

It is time for me to exit. May everyone’s heart be filled with Christ’s joy; may your homes be filled with his loving warmth, and may your lives be filled with his comfort and peace during this Advent season. Blessings to you and yours this Christmas and always.
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
FELIZ NAVIDAD!

In Christ’s joy,
Intern Natacha
1 Peter 5:1-11
2 Peter 1:2

Vicar Oldfather--

2004-12-10T09:57:00.000-06:00

Hey all!

Hows it going! Life in Connecticut is great! I'm having a blast. Church life is pretty crazy as I'm sure it is for all of you. We've got a lot going on at St. matthew during this month.

So, how is everyone! I can't wait to hear from all of you.

I'm clustering with a bunch of Gettysburg and Philly folks, which has been pretty cool for the most part! The Gettysberg people are kinda clicky! There are 11 interns in New England (i.e Red Sox Nation) and so far the winter has been great! We've had two storms and the snow was gone within 3-4 days of the storm.

Hope all is well. Thanks Chris for the invite into the Blog.

Rachel

Two new bloggers....

2004-12-07T15:26:00.000-06:00

Just wanted to let you all know that I just sent out invitations to Jon Rhodes and Rachel Oldfather to join our merry band of (wo)men. We look forward to hearing from them!

Quick update on me: 2 funerals down, 1 to go, seminarians coming here on Friday, a wedding to do on Saturday, and preaching on Sunday! AAUUGH! It's all good though, because there's ministry to do! God bless!

It's been a long time...

2004-12-06T13:16:00.000-06:00

...I never left you!

Wow folks. Crazy last couple of weeks, only to get crazier. Major points: Thanksgiving went well. I met my girlfriend's mom, which is always fun. :D The 1st was our Soup and Pie Supper, which we served 610 people in about 3 hours. I ended up taking over "hosting duties", letting people in when we had room for them. And that morning of the 1st is when all heck broke loose.

You see, that morning, we got a call that a member had committed suicide. My supervisor and I ran to Albert Lea to take care of the family, who was at the hospital with the mom who was having heart trouble. That visitation was last night, and the funeral is in about a half hour here. Add onto that, we have two more. Yes, back-to-back-to-back, Monday-Tuesday-Wednesday. Well, the three months without one was a nice run. I'm kind of nervous about these, but I'm going to get a lot of experience real quick. Pray!

Gotta go bring the Word. I love you all!

In Christ's Hope,
Christopher

I survived again!

2004-12-03T14:10:00.000-06:00

I hope everyone had a good Thanksgiving. My Thanksgiving celebration was basically non-existent, as there were no Americans in the immediate area to celebrate with. I did make some birthday visitations that day, though, and I had a fun time explaining the origin of Thanksgiving and debunking some myths about it. I really do enjoy making visits to people. I was scared out of my mind at first, but I am no longer afraid. My German is at its best during these times of visiting people. They seem genuinely interested in where I'm from.

I also jumped the next major hurdle today. I gave my first sermon in German from the pulpit of the St. Thomas Church. Granted, it was very short, but that's what sermons at the motets are supposed to be. I sucessfully spat out all of the words, and got down from that pulpit as fast as I could! I don't know if any of you know about the style of pulpits over here. They are generally very high up, and you have to climb sometimes twenty stairs in order to preach. Task number one is getting up there without tripping, task two is correctly pronouncing all the words, step three is walking back down the steps without tripping.

I also led the prayer at this motet and sang the benediction. It was a successful experience. Even though I didn't get to celebrate Thanksgiving in the tradition sense of Turkey and pumpkin pie, the day did give me cause to think about all I have to be thankful for. I called my family that day, and I talked to my cousins, whom I hadn't talked to for about three years. It was good.

Life in Leipzig during this time of year is really interesting, to say the least. The St. Thomas Church is right in the center of the city, not very far from anything. There is a huge Christmas market not far away, and the streets around it, which are usually fairly empty, are just crowded with people drinking hot chocolate, eating waffle sandwiches with cream, and, of course, eating bratwurst. This goes without saying that the number of street musicians about doubles this time of year. Not only are there accordion players every block, but there are now brass choirs playing Advent and Christmas hymns. That's interesting enough, but some of the ridiculous outfits that these people wear really amuse me! I saw a group of six Russian men dressed in rather unauthentic looking military uniforms singing Russian songs in a sextet. I should have gotten one of their CDs. I had the chance to meet a street juggler and flute player from Washington DC just today, and it was refreshing to talk to someone from the US. I also met a street guitarist from England the other day. He was playing "Counting Crows" songs, which is one of my favorite bands.

I hope all of you are well and that the season is not finding you too busy. Looking forward to hearing about it.

Euer Tom

I'm outta here!!

2004-12-01T14:57:00.000-06:00

Oh don't get shook. I am definitely not leaving Brainerd permanently. However, on Sunday, my daughter and I will fly into sunny Miami and on Monday we will get on a ship called Fascination. I am really looking forward to this time with Carla. She and I have never gone a trip just the two of us. Wish me luck trying to keep up witha 25-year-old for a week. WooHoo. I will let you know how it was in about a week. Take care of yourselves.
Love and prayers

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

2004-11-25T13:07:00.000-06:00

Hello All!
Glad to hear all is going quite well. I am still very busy, busy, busy...but I am enjoying every minute of it. I have three sermons to write, so I better get started. May all have a blessed and Christ-centered Thanksgiving. Remember God is good all the time, and all the time God is good.

In Christ's Love,
Natacha

I have survived

2004-11-24T13:48:00.000-06:00

I am happy to report that I survived the seventh grade religion class that I had to teach, which I mentioned earlier. It went very well, to my surprise. That is yet another thing under my belt. The center of Leipzig is very active, as they have a big Christmas market not far from the church. They sell all kinds of food and little Christmas ornaments. It's too bad that I am not as thrilled by such things as other people that I know. I should bring some of these things home with me when I'm done in August.

The postal service here is very efficient, but also very expensive. I waited a little too long to buy my Christmas presents. If I would have sent them the cheaper but slower way, they would have arrived about a week after Christmas. So, I sent them the fast way, which cost an arm and a leg. They have already arrived, though.

I get to give a short homily at one of the motets that they put on here next Friday. It should be fun. It will be the first time that I get to preach from the high pulpit of the St. Thomas Church. One very big difference that I've noticed about churches here when compared to most American churches is the fact that one has to climb about twenty stairs to get into the pulpit. I noticed this on Reformation Day, especially. Already a little nervous, I had to climb several stairs, which only contributed to me being out of breath during the reading of the gospel. I think the motets that they do at this church are really a lesson in evangelism. People will come to them that won't come to church on Sunday morning. So, they really try to reach out to people when they have the chance.

There is not much else to report for this week. Things are very normal. The weather has turned rather cold. This much, at least, reminds me of home. Oh, of course. How could I forget! Happy Thanksgiving to you all.

Take care, everyone,

Tom

Happy Thanksgiving

2004-11-24T13:36:00.000-06:00

Blessings abound for all of us. I am at a point in life where I have to share my children with other families. Not sure I like it, no pretty sure I don't like it. The up swing of not having them at Thanksgiving means I get to have them for Christmas. YEAH!. I hope that each of you have a family you will spend Thanksgiving with, if it is not your own.

I am preaching tonight and we read the President's Proclamation. Hmmmmm. Very busy around here. My office is no longer the store room for the Boutique. It is kind of bare in here. I am in complete charge of the worship service on Sunday. Pray for me. I sweet talked someone into playing the piano while we sing hymns and some one else into doing special music, etc. etc. Again I say pray for me.

Take care everyone and remember life is short enjoy the good things, forget the bad things and ignore the impossible things.

Love and prayers

Running, running, running...

2004-11-22T18:24:00.000-06:00

What a week. I preached at a different church this week, so I was preparing that sermon all week on top of my usual duties around here. My supervisor and I went on at least 6 different communion visits this week. After this month, we're going to split up the list and go to them individually. So, I do get to bring communion, but I have to "put my kit on the altar some Sunday" to make it "legal."

We had some Sr High youth learn a hard lesson in ministry this week. Sunday night we held a "Fear Factor"-style competition with games and crazy animals and a lot of fun stuff. The girls in charge had put up sign up sheets at the high school, and were estimating 80 attendees. We had 25. It was amazingly fun, but the numbers were extremely disappointing. What happens when you have something and no one shows up? They found out. BTW, I have a picture of myself wrapped in a 20-ft python if anyone's interested in seeing it.

Short post because I've got a dartball match to get to tonight. Next week's highlights include Thanksgiving eve service, and having plenty of QT with the GF as she's in CL for TG. If you can't figure that out, sorry. ;)

In Christ's Hope,
Christopher

Internship Uncensored

2004-11-18T10:34:00.000-06:00

Internship Uncensored

Hey Folks

I would like to thank Christopher for getting us going on this Blog. It has been great to be able to hear from everyone from across the miles and know that all is well (or mostly well!). It seems that an ongoing theme is the pace with which the internship seems to move along. I wonder if this will change as we near the end of our 'tours of duty?' Will the end drag on or fly by? For me, sitting here with half of my year nearly complete I can honestly say that every day seems to move a little faster. Every day the minsitry seems to get a little more meaningful and the relationships develop greater depth.

I had one of those tragic (and sorrowful) yet faith-building experiences this week. A good buddy of mine from college called and told me that his father had died suddenly of a heart attack at the age of 65. His dad was a highyl regarded pastor who among other things had been on the board of trustees and Gustavus. He had a passion for promoting and building the minsitry of Gustavus Adolphus. Ron (the dad) had started a support program promoting healthy boundaries for pastors called Pastor to Pastor, served several congregations, and was assistant to the bishop for a time. Ron was a great man with a big heart and a love of Jesus that shaped his entire life.

The funeral was Tuesday in St. Cloud and as you can imagine the church was packed. It was amazing to see 34 vested clergy follow the cross into the church at the start of the service. All three of the children spoke and they used exerpts from a book Ron had written about faith and grief at the time of his own father's death years earlier. The robust singing was exceeded only by the presence of the Holy Spirit, testifing to a man with whom Jesus was well pleased.

As I sat there and grieved for my friend and his family, I could not help but think about the ministry to which we have all been called. What an honor to be called. What a responsibility to answer. What a gift to give oneself to others for the sake of our Lord.

I don't know about you, but for me there are times when this calling feels like a burden. But then there are other times, like sitting in that pew in St. Cloud, when it is so clearly visible that this calling is a blessing that has come directly from God.

moving right along

2004-11-17T13:06:00.000-06:00

Hello everyone, I am really glad to hear that you seem to be having positive experiences. I think this time has the potential to be very challenging, so I hope everyone is taking time to take care of themselves.

I just got back here to Leipzig a few days ago to begin this phase of my internship. Today is known as Buß und Betttag, which means 'repentance and prayer day.' They keep this holiday every year as a reminder of the lack of resistence against Hitler, etc. I sang liturgy today at worship, as well as assisted with communion distribution. Logistics for communion distribution can be confusing enough without having to say the words in German. Christi Leib für dich gegeben. Christi Blut für dich vergossen.

The question about whether or not I have spiritual people to relate to is a good one. The fact is that I really don't have anyone to relate to. Don't get me wrong. Things really are going well here, and it really isn't a grave situation, but it's simply hard to get to know people well in this culture. The language barrier is a problem too. My German really is getting better day after day, but I still can't communicate with as much nuance as I can in English. I don't think I ever will, either.

Sometimes I feel very useful, like when I made an hour and a half visit with an old German woman the other day, who told me all about her experiences with Hitler and the following years. So interesting. She kept telling me how good my German was. Then, I get into another situation where I feel like a complete idiot. It never goes away.

I had the chance to meet an American pastor from Houston Texas the other day. He was here preparing for his four month sabbatical starting in June that he'll be doing here. Houston is the sister city to Leipzig, so the pastors know each other. In fact, the connection between Leipzig and Houston is so strong that I have to keep reminding people that I'm not from Texas!

By the way, I would appreciate your prayers as I am set to teach a group of seventh graders about Martin Luther at the local school tomorrow morning. If you read this in time, please ask God to grant me comfort and peace as I go about this task.

I must now go to a concert. That's one of the nice things about this church. I get to hear a lot of great music for free!

Blessings on your ministries!

Tom

Fun times!

2004-11-16T14:12:00.000-06:00

Hey folks. I just got off the phone with Laure from Contextual Leadership. She is going to put a little blurb in the next newsletter about our blog, and invite anyone who wants to join us to email me. It'll be nice to have some other folks on here, but you all will always be the Magnificent Seven! :D Hope things are well!

In Christ's Hope,
Christopher

Oldie but a goodie

2004-11-16T10:57:00.000-06:00

A new priest at his first mass was so nervous he could hardly speak.

After mass he asked the monsignor how he had done.

The monsignor replied, " When I am worried about getting nervous On the pulpit, I put a glass of vodka next to the water glass. If I start to get nervous, I take a sip."

So next Sunday he took the monsignor's advice.

At the beginning of the sermon, he got nervous and took a drink.

He proceeded to talk up a storm.

Upon his return to his office after the mass, he found the following note on the door:

1. Sip the vodka, don't gulp.

2. There are 10 commandments, not 12.

3. There are 12 disciples, not 10.

4. Jesus was consecrated, not constipated.

5. Jacob wagered his donkey, he did not bet his ass.

6. We do not refer to Jesus Christ as the late J.C.

7. The Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are not referred to as Daddy, Junior and the spook.

8. We do not refer to the cross as the "Big T."

9. The recommended grace before a meal is not: Rub-A-Dub-Dub thanks for the grub, Yeah God.

10. Next Sunday there will be a taffy pulling contest at ST.Peter's not a peter pulling contest at St. Taffy's.

Whirlwind two weeks...

2004-11-15T18:17:00.000-06:00

Man alive. These last two weeks, I feel like I've been running with no stop on some days and at a complete standstill on others. For example, last Sunday, I had worship, JHSS, baptisms at noon, a youth event at 1, then left at 4 for Owatonna for the Synod Theological Conference, which went until about 9 that night. On the other hand, there are days like last Friday, where I had everything done, and felt pretty still. One of the things I want to do is use those "slow times" and go visit folks, but I haven't gotten off my lazy butt to do that yet. ;)

Synod theological conference was interesting. I got to see some of my fellow interns, along with people that I had worked with in the past that I didn't know where in the synod. Some of the stuff in the sessions was interesting, but here's one of my pet peeves in one sentence, OK?: I don't want to know your political leanings by the content of your preaching or teaching. That's all I'll say about that.

On Wednesday of this week, I led our Release Time sessions. We have 2-4 grades and 5th & 6th for a half-hour each. 2-4 was CRAZY. One kid sitting in the front could not sit. He was laying in the pew, up and down, on and off the floor, really distracting. I had to talk to him afterwards, but I don't think he was listening to me. Meanwhile, 5&6 were great. I was even able to goof with them a little bit. And of course on this past Wednesday, HAPPY BIRTHDAY MARTIN! :D :D

Rena, I also preached this past Sunday. I did roll around with that text for a great while. It turned out pretty well, and I got some positive reaction. It was tough, but the scales did fall from my eyes when it came to "Where is the Gospel in this text?" Some texts, that's the question to ask; for others, it's "Where is the law?" Remember, both are there, folks! :D Even my girlfriend appreciated my sermon.

Oh yeah, my girlfriend. Some of you know already that I have been dating a certain someone for a couple of weeks now, and she came down here this weekend. We had some good QT, as Kinney might say (that is, quality time). She went back north this afternoon, and I already miss her. If you want more details, email me. I sure ain't posting relationship details on the Internet!! :D ;)

Blessings to all in your ministry this week. This week's highlights for me include a "round table" discussion with our Sr High youth, and their "Fear Factor" event on Sunday (totally eating-crazy-stuff free!). I'm also preaching again this Sunday, but it is at another church in the area. God bless!

In Christ's Hope,
Christopher

Oh My

2004-11-15T13:26:00.000-06:00

That is what I titled my sermon for yesterday. Did anyone else have to preach yesterday? What an awful text to preach when you are accepting 30 new members and baptising a mother and daughter and another infant. Oh well the sanctuary was packed. I am told I presented my sermon quite well. No body was scared out of becoming an active Christian, but they heard that it isn't always an easy road, even here in the U.S. I think of you Tom and wonder if there are spiritual people for you to connect with. There are religious people everywhere, but I feel there is a difference between being spiritual and being religious. Tasha, remember "breathe". I am happy to hear that everything is going so well for you. My internship project is almost at full bloom now. I designed a t-shirt for the youth to sell and the proceeds would be divided between their fund and the building fund would benefit from the gift the youth would make of some of the profit. The t-shirts are here and have started to sell. I need to order some different sizes like XX large and youth sizes. I need to get back to work though.
Love and prayers
Rena

Yeesh...

2004-11-10T11:42:00.000-06:00

Don't have much time. I was in Owatonna for Synod Theological Conference on Monday, so that's why I didn't post. I'll post about the last 2 weeks next Monday. Peace!

Brrrrr! It's getting cold here!

2004-11-10T09:52:00.000-06:00

Hello Again Everybody!

Life just keeps getting sweeter and sweeter here for me. .. like a bowl full of cherries. My placement at this place is God sent; I cannot see it any other way for now. I am learning lots and being taught much. Therefore I am kept truly busy most of the time.

Well, a little a week ago culminated three different road trips which I took that were almost back to back of each other. No sooner than I returned from one, I repacked and prepared for the next. Talk about living in and out of a suitcase. I experienced firsthand as to what it is like, but on a much smaller scale so to speak. I can only imagine what it would be like when done often and on a much grander scale.

The first trip was attending a meeting concerning the ELCA CWA to be held in Florida next year. By vote, I and a few others were selected to attend as representatives; all expenses paid. I am really excited about the whole thing, and am truly looking forward to the experience. It should be a really great one for me, and I am privilege to have been considered as a choice.

It took place in a town not to far away from my own hometown, so therefore I had the chance to stop overnight and spend a little time with my Mom and brother. They were both happy to see me, and it was time well spent together. Bishop Usgaard and the others at the meeting were amazed at the distance I came after discovering it. They all stated I am definitely dedicated, and that is an excellent quality to posses.

The second trip was to an Intern/Supervisory retreat in Rockford, Illinois in which the senior pastor and I attended. I learned a lot about leadership skills, and also what is expected of me during internship. Meeting all the interns from the different Lutheran seminaries was a nice experience, and also engaging in interesting conversation with them.

The third trip was to the East Central Theological Conference. Here we were taught how to deal with and identify our emotions and that of others in order to have a more productive and strong ministry. I found it to be helpful and mind awakening in what they were trying to convey. This particular trip took place in Egg Harbor.

Anyway, immediately upon my arrival back in town here, I had to go to the church and help out with two different youth events that occurred within one day of each other. Friday, was the youth Harvest Lock-In. It was a big overnight bash for all the youth, and was well attended. They seemed to have had the time of their lives. A band named Captive Free did a concert for us, and they did a marvelous job, I must say. They interacted with the audience, and the kids really liked it. There was assorted food, games, etc. It climaxed late the next morning with a continental breakfast for all.

Next came the big Halloween party on Sunday. Everyone was dressed in a costume of some sort. One in particular really caught my eye. She was dressed as static clean--Ha! Everything seemed to have been clinging to her. It was really weird looking--Ha! Ha! Music was played to fit the occasion like the Monster Mash etc. And of course all types of physical and mind boggling games. All kinds of food was served that youth love like pizzas, brownies, chips, pop, etc. Plus, we watched It’s the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown. Everyone enjoyed themselves which caused it to be a success.

So as you can tell, I seem to never run out of things to do around this place. And thus far, it has been a rewarding experience.

I served the pastors and the choir directress lunch at my apartment a few days after then. They had become tired eating out a lot, so I decided to share what I had cooked; Southern style steak soup. They raved over it, especially the senior pastor who also wanted to know what I would be cooking next. I said Southern style meatloaf, scalloped potatoes, and steamed carrots. I owe it all to my mother. She is the one who taught me the different styles of cooking. She is an excellent one herself.

Nevertheless, a few days ago, I assisted the associate pastor with another funeral here at the church. This one was a sweet sad experience for me. I was summoned immediately to the hospital, and by the time I arrived, pastor was finishing the Lord’s Prayer when we were told the member had died. He had been rushed there before hand. In learning more on his life, he was currently married 55 years to a spouse who developed Polio seven years into their marriage. He took care and also waited on her up until the day he died. To accommodate her disability further, he went and had a special house build to fit her needs.

Talk about true love and devotion; pastor and I were discussing how many marriages in this day and age don't seem to be made of this type of material. I recently read that divorce in America is over 50 percent and rapidly rising. And the saddest part of it all is that the Christians outnumber the non-Christians.

This is why I am waiting on God to send along my husband. I want to be in it for the long run with happiness and fulfillment; it can only come through God. It can become messy, otherwise, when choosing spouses without God’s guidance. I have seen to many examples of this. My mother and father had a beautiful, powerful relationship. God brought them together in a wonderful way. If he did it for them, he will do it for me because the Bible tells us God is not a respecter of persons.

Oh yes! Before I end. Tom, don’t be disappointed long. No matter who takes office, God causes all things to work together for good to those who love him (Romans 8:28, 31-32, 37-39). I believe God will guide us through the next four years. The senior pastor and I were given front row tickets to see President Bush when visiting Oshkosh, Wisconsin. A young lady who is very active in the Republican Party gave both of us tickets. She had the privledge of sitting on stage with the President since she is an active party member. The place was literally packed.

I have overstayed my time. I must go. There is so much more I would like to tell all of you about my even earlier happenings here, but I just don't have enough space nor the time to do it. Maybe I can just start including a part of the old news along with the new as I go along in order to get you all caught up.

Everybody take care and also remember this; God is good all the time, and all the time God is good no matter what the circumstances. Blessings on your ministries!

Love, peace, and joy!
Natacha
John 15:1-11

Much Ado About....

2004-11-04T13:32:00.000-06:00

Hello All!

Glad to hear all is going well. Yes, I know I promised an update a little over a week ago, but things have been busy, busy, busy. The update is still in the making; it will be posted soon.
I echo what Rena said. Many parishoners are asking if they can keep me forever. They don't want me returning to seminary in a year. It is really heart-warming hearing people make such special comments like that, and I praise God for them. A lot of youth are enjoying my sermons. They are making it a habit to ask which Sundays I am preaching. I don't plan to mention that to the pastors, of course.
Overall, God's blessings abound and I am enjoying participating in the many ministries here. Oops! Must go now. I have some visits I need to make this afternoon. Look for my update.

Blessings, peace, and joy to all.
Natacha

Thoughts on the aftermath of the election

2004-11-03T13:57:00.000-06:00

I am very glad to have had the opportunity to participate in an election party put on by the consulate here in Leipzig last night. While there were quite a few Americans there, it was neat to see so many Germans interested in the process as well. Probably my highlight was seeing a theatrical group of German high school age girls do a play reenacting the Boston Tea Party.

I must admit that I am personally a little disappointed with the results of the elections around the country. However, I am encouraged to see that voter turnout was so high. Voting for me was a pain, as I had to get a special signature of a witness at the consulate here in Leipzig, but I don't regret taking the time to do it. I think it is very important to be involved in deciding the future of the country.

It always feels good to cheer for a winner, and it is always a letdown when things don't turn out the way that we want them. This is true as much in politics as it is in sports. Nevertheless, I think it is important for people like us to never confuse the message that we proclaim with what we think will bring healing to the country and the world. It is a difficult issue, I know, and that distiction is sometimes hairsplitting. It only calls us to more focused discernment.

I've been hanging out with three bishops over the last few days, among people with them. It's been fun. By the way, congratulations on your engagement, Jared!

Later,

Herr Vikar Tom

Blessed All Saints Day!

2004-11-01T09:51:00.000-06:00

Hey folks. I'm going to make my post short today as I have some...business...to take care of. (Curious? Email me.) However, there were two things I wanted to share. On Thursday, my supervisor and I had our toughest home communion visit since I've been here. This woman has had a rough go of it over about the past 3 years, including her husband in a nursing home with Altheimers. She said a few times that she didn't even know if she believed anymore, and why God didn't stop punishing them. We tried to encourage her, and we did give her communion, which I was really happy about, that she was still willing to take it, but it just reminds me of the despair that's out there. I've experienced that despair myself, and I know the healing that comes from the Word in my life and in the lives of others. She's going to be someone I want to meet with all year.

Second, preaching. I did work the Heretics shirt into my sermon when I was talking about the Reformation. My title was "Lest We Forget", and I talked about the Jews in the John reading forgetting about their slavery in Egypt, the Catholic Church forgetting that salvation was a gift, and us nowadays forgetting we're sinners. I ended by being "the string around your finger" and bringing the Word. I had my clerical on to start, and then when I talked about the Catholics going against Luther, I took my clerical off and had the Heretics shirt underneath. I talked to my JHSS kids about that, and a lot of them were wondering what I was doing. :D I got a lot of positive comments again too. T-Bone, I like your idea about sharing the sermons. Hook that up.

Well, I have...business...to take care of. Next week's big thing is the Synod Theological Conference next Sunday through Tuesday. God bless!

In Christ's Hope,
Christopher

MMMMMM what did he say?

2004-11-01T09:26:00.000-06:00

Happy All Saints Day everyone!! You know what is really scary I could figure out only about every third word in the first part of your entry T-Bone. What a thrill to preach in the place where it all started. We had a quieter celebration here. We confirmed the affirmations of 16 young people. In the afternoon we had the Great Pumpkin Party. Witches, goblins, haunted mansions in the church ?!?!? We have our intern cluster retreat today and tomorrow. Takes away from my time with David, not crazy about that at all. Will you say a prayer for me. My congregation says they aren't going to let me go back to Seminary. My class of 6th, 7th and 8th graders were serious about the petition to keep me too, it seems. This congregation has had a rough last few years with associates have mental and emotional and health issues. And they think I am stable. Oy Vei. Also pray for David and I as we will have to be the ones to put Dad into an assisted living facility of some sort in the near future. He is becoming more work than more is equipped to deal with. Shall I end on a happier note. I miss you guys and hope that your internships are going as awesome as mine. I don't want to ever leave here.
Rena "Mom"

Gott sei dank!

2004-11-01T04:47:00.000-06:00

Gestern war Reformationstag hier in Lutherstadt Wittenberg. Es gab so viele Leute. Ich konnte das nicht glauben! Das Essen schmeckt besonders gut, und es gab auch in Wittenberg viele junge Leute in der Konfirmandenunterricht. Sie waren sehr nett, und es war gut, mit dieser jungen Leute zu sprechen.

Ich habe meinen ersten Predigt im meinem Vikariat gestern früh gemacht. Es war ein bisschen stressig, weil drei Bischöfe aus den USA auch da waren. Jedoch ist alles sehr gut gelaufen. Es war so schön, in dem Kanzel der Schloßkirche zu predigen. Eine anglikanische Gruppe aus Kanada war auch da. Sie hatten viele gute Dinge über meinem Predigt zu sagen.

That´s enough German for now, I think. Basically, I just said that my first sermon for internship happened to be in the Castle Church in Wittenberg on Reformation Day. Three ELCA bishops were there, along with people from Canada, and a cute girl from America that I had a crush on. Almost everyone was very complimentary about my sermon, including the bishops. You would think this would lift my spirits. However, I wasn't very encouraged when the object of my affections at the time didn't even hang around after the English language worship to tell me that I did a good job! Oh well, you can't win them all, I guess.

It was neat to be here for the Reformation festival. Lots of stuff was going on. There were a lot of confirmation students from all around Germany that attended the German service at 10:00. They were all having a big rally outside of the church next to the theses door, and many of them were asking the ELCA bishops for their autograph! I guess I wasn't high up enough on the chain for them to ask me!

I guess I've realized from this whole experience that the word of God is the word of God, regardless of where one is. Having spent a lot of time at a small Lutheran church in Medora, North Dakota, and then preaching at the Castle Church makes me realize that our surroundings really don't matter that much. It is the faithfullness of the preaching that really counts.

Blessings on all of you. Maybe I'll send a copy of my sermon to all of you. Maybe those of you who preached for Reformation Day can do the same. That would be fun.

Later,

T-Bone

Happy Reformation Day!

2004-10-31T14:24:00.000-06:00

I'm going to do a post tomorrow, but I just wanted to wish everyone a Happy Reformation Day! And of course, I've gotta remind T-Bone to post about preaching in the Castle Church this morning!

(oh, and there's some Halloween thing too. Have a good one of those, or something. :D )

Internship Uncensored

2004-10-28T18:46:00.000-05:00

Just a quick update from California, it's currently in the rainy season which means it rains at night and mostly clears up during the day making it partly cloudy and in the 60's. My internship is going well, I taught my first crossways classes yesterday and had a lot of fun doing that, with all that is going on I was glad when the associate pastor asked if I had time to go for a bike ride, we ended up riding 22 miles this afternoon, up one rise and a hill, now hills out here are pretty steep, it took us 10 minutes of working very hard to get up it. So now it's back to working on the sermon for this weekend and getting ready for adult Sunday school. Just one other note, I got engaged last weekend to my girlfriend of over a year now, we a very excited and are looking at October 7th in the cities as the date. God bless

Jared

A slow week....

2004-10-25T11:05:00.000-05:00

Hey folks. This last week seemed like the slowest for some reason. It's almost as if my mind was someplace else. It may have also been that I really didn't have much this week. We had a new member class on Thursday, which I led a devotional for (and used Bones' piece below, so thanks!). I was amazed at the difference in our release time classes yet again. We have a half-hour for 2,3,4 grades and another 1/2 for 5th & 6th. 2-4 is INSANE. 70 kids, and about 40 of them are talking or hitting each other. Wonderful. Meanwhile, the 5th and 6th graders are attentive, considerate, and calm. It's crazy to me.

The main other thing this week was that my mom and brother came down for the weekend. They got here about 2 on Saturday afternoon. My mom immediately set out to cleaning my house, which I was 1/4 annoyed by and 3/4 happy about. I felt about 90% moved in before this weekend, and now I feel about 99% moved in. We also discovered that my couch is also a hideabed, which is fun. Then on Sunday, after church, I usually have Junior High Sunday School. I had my lesson all planned out, but I went up to Mom after the service and said, "It would be so much more fun to punt." I brought her into my class and we talked about a lot of different things, including my brother. The kids seemed to really enjoy it, and they were a little more attentive with my Mom in the room. :D

Overall, a good week, but slow. This next one will not be so, however. Not only do I preach on Sunday (woo hoo!), we also have a baptism and a wedding on Saturday. (Yeah, I know. Private baptism. Don't get me started.) I also need to get my forms into the sem, as I have been delinquent in that. Blessings to all!

In Christ's Hope,
Christopher

Hang in there, everyone

2004-10-24T13:08:00.000-05:00

Hello,

When I get a little more time, I will write in German. I am in an internet cafe here in Wittenberg, though, and I need to get going soon.

Life is good for the most part. There are things that are a little frustrating, of course, but I am enjoying getting to know the people that pass through this wonderful town. I'm also singing in the choir of the Castle Church congregation, where I'll be preaching on Reformation Day and where the choir will be singing as well. Pretty cool. I am getting to know a few more people here as well. It is hard to be away from my own country during the election, but I got my absentee ballot the other day, which is good.

Looking forward to hearing more from all of you.

Blessings,

Tom

Thought I Would Share

2004-10-19T13:39:00.000-05:00

I got this via e-mail today from a pastor friend. Thought I wold pass it along!!!

The next time you feel like god can't use you, remmber.....

Noah was a drunk
Abraham was too old
Isaac was a daydreamer
Jacob was a liar
Leah was ugly
Joseph was abused
Moses stuttered
Gideon was afraid
Sampson was a womanizer
Rahab was a prostitute
Jeremiah and Timothy were too young
David had an affair and was a murderer
Elijah was suicidal
Isaiah preached naked (Thanks but no thanks bloggers!!!)
Jonah ran from God
Job went bankrupt
John the Baptist ate bugs
Peter denied Christ
The disciples fell asleep while praying
Martha was a worry wart
The Samaritan woman was divorced, and divorced, and divorced, again
Zaccheus was a wee little man with little man syndrome
Paul was too religious
Timothy had an ulcer

AND

Lazarus was DEAD!!!!!

Any excuse that you have pales in comparison to these. God will use those that he pleases to His end.

Besides-- You are not the message, you are jsut the messenger!

Blessings to all-

bones

I'm lucky.

2004-10-19T13:10:00.000-05:00

I feel so honored to be in this place. It has been a wonderful time for me of growth and understanding. This past week was just another example of that. Even in the midst of confusion and misunderstandings and hardships, God is still good, and God is still present with that life we so desperately need. The major piece of that which happened this week was I assisted with a baptism this past Sunday. It's always a privilege to be a part of something like that, especially to the tiniest of our brothers and sisters, knowing that even before water is put to head or words to mouth, God is there, saying "I love you. I forgive you. I am yours, and you are mine." It's powerful, and it's amazing.

Short post this week. Next week, the big thing is a new member class on Thursday, and I need to get my learning agreement and project forms back to the sem before they start breathing down my neck. I wish you all the best, and may the seeds you plant grow where they may.

In Christ's Hope,
Christopher

Is it hot in here or is it just me?

2004-10-13T18:53:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone, I hope that everything is going well for you all. Chris I can relate to you on the confirmation stuff, kids are my biggest challenge, but I know that you will develop the skills necessary and do a great job! Well it's almost the middle of October and it's 91 degrees out right now in San Jose, it sure doesn't feel like fall out here. I guess we are suppose to get rains soon, but it's still sunny and hot, I never knew how much I enjoyed the fall in the midwest, it's nice to be able to stop sweating for a few months up that way! All is going well, I finally feel like I'm beginning to run, or hit some sort of stride and it feels great! God's blessings on you all!

In Christ
Jared

Lovely to hear all is well...

2004-10-13T15:21:00.000-05:00

Hello All!!!

Glad to hear all is well at everyone's respective internship site. Once again I am putting together an update as to the latest happenings since my last posting. I am popping my head in now just to keep myself active on the blogger. This was an excellent idea Miller. I am doing great, and traveling quite a bit this month. Lots of retreats and conferences to attend. By the way, is anyone attending the WordAlone Conference in White Bear Lake, MN in November (November 19-20)? It is a possibility that I will go along with the Pastors and some parishoners.

Rena, I love reading about your endeavors. What's this about pillow fights in Sunday School? It seems a lot of interesting activities occur around you. Tell your daughter Happy Belated Birthday. I know it feels wonderful to be 25. One day, I will go horseback riding and enjoy the wind blowing through my hair as I steadily grasp the reins (sp?). You two will have to teach me someday. Keep up the excellent work!

Miller! I echo what Rena said concerning your confirmads. Show your authority in a stern, yet gentle way to let them know who is boss. Pre-teens and teens will try each level of your patients to see just how much you will tolerate their misbehavior. Hang in there; you'll make it. I cannot say that I have had major problems with my confirmads. In fact, they have been quite good and respectful. There are a few, but we nip things in the bud fast. I am trying to get my 8th graders more involved. It seems they are self-conscious about themselves, and I want them to feel more comfortable. Otherwise, my 6th and 7th graders really get into the lessons. We are using Faith Incubators, and it is WONDERFUL! Where was something like this when I was in confirmation?

Vicar Jacobson! Write to us in German once in a while. It will be fun to read. Your internship sounds really exciting. Do you get to travel much outside of Wittenburg? WOW! I am sure you are having quite an adventure. Continue to keep us posted.

Well, that is all for now. Again, my update will be posted soon; much to tell. I am continually praying for each of you. May God's continued blessings and guidance be abudant in your lives. TTFN...Ta Ta For Now (I love Tigger from Whinne the Pooh)

Vaya con Dios!
Natacha
Psalm 121

Words of wisdom???

2004-10-12T09:54:00.000-05:00

Here is a thought for you Christopher. When dealing with kids, I believe (some proof to it as well) that it is better to put the hammer down on them right away and then ease back as they prove to be conducting themselves properly and actually listening to the instructor. If you are to easy going at first and then try to level them they will only think it is a joke and respond the opposite of what you want. Remember you are the adult you are supposed to be in charge, but don't forget the kid inside of you and let a little peak out once in a while. Tom sometimes I am really envious of you getting to live in a foreign place, yet on the other hand Pine Ridge was far enough away from home too. Remember there are those of us back in the states who understand that religion and Christianity and spirituality are three different things. I am praying for all of you. This is the year we get to make mistakes and have someone correct them before it blows up in our faces.
Love and prayers
Rena

Wow. That's Confirmation?

2004-10-11T11:30:00.000-05:00

The title pretty much says it all about the main focus of my post today, but there are some other things that happened as well. Tuesday was a very busy day, ranging from text study to a county ministerial meeting to a communion service at a nursing home. Thursday was a conference meeting, with pastors all over the conference gathering for fellowship, worship, and learning. We had a session on dealing with kids with learning disabilities in our Sunday School and Confirmation classes. We set up a "pumpkin patch" on Saturday to raise funds for the 2006 National Youth Gathering, which is pretty cool. I made a scarecrow for it, which is always fun. Sunday, we took 4-6th grades to a corn maze in Iowa, which was great. The three kids I worked with were just as hardcore about it as I was, and we got through it, with all the stations, in about 50 minutes. The average is between 60-90 minutes.

The biggest thing that happened during the week, if not for Wednesday, was assisting with a wedding on Saturday. The wedding took place at the family farm, up on a deck in the front of the house. Two things could have been changed: 1. The bugs were HORRIBLE. 2. We were at just the right position to get not only the sun direct, but the sun reflected off one of the barn roofs. We were toasting up there. Otherwise, it was a wonderful service that I felt blessed to be a part of. I read the "prayers of the church" for the couple and for all families. So, most of the ceremony, I'm just kind of standing there with a front-row seat. Pretty fun.

Now, onto Wednesday. We had Confirmation AND Release Time start. I immediately shifted into this "taskmaster" persona that is completely not me. I was gruff and short, and giving stern looks everywhere. I said after release time to one of the other pastors: "It's tough work being the heel." Then came confirmation. Our 7th and 8th graders are, shall we say, rambunctious. We had set up a seating chart, hoping that would help. All we got was whining. I felt like I needed to do something, but what I did was bring out the taskmaster. I was trying to explain, but just like they say, working with Junior High kids brings you right back there, into all your insecurities from those days. So, I had a rough time of it the first time. My supervisor and I processed a lot after the class got done, and to be honest, I shed a couple tears. But now, I've put it in a drawer and it's out of my sight. I've got a fresh start starting Wednesday.

Next week is busy. I've got my second Internship Committee meeting on Tuesday, council meeting on Wednesday, and our cluster meeting on Thursday. I'm looking forward to hopefully seeing a couple people I know at the cluster, including Bones. God's blessings to you all on your ministries!

In Christ's Hope,
Christopher

I´ll be back...

2004-10-09T14:25:00.000-05:00

Maybe it would be better to say, 'I'm already back.' I came back to Wittenberg last Friday after surviving the first six week portion of my internship in Leipzig to the ELCA Wittenberg Center in order to begin work there. I like it a lot, especially getting to function in English. I also like the quieter, friendlier atmosphere of Wittenberg. The directors have had me preparing for my preaching gig on Reformation Day, telling me that four ELCA bishops will be in attendance. They don't intimidate me, though. I have been working in the past week with a group of people from all across America here to learn more about Reformation history. So, I've had the chance to share all the years of education that I've accumulated. I guess it wasn't a waste of time after all :)

It really is inspiring to be here, although sort of sad at the same time. Seeing the state of the church in this part of the world has the potential to be depressing. In many ways, it is similar to my experience at the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation that a few of you experienced with me. There is hope for the future, but it seems fairly bleak at the moment.

I got to assist with worship in English for our group a few days ago. I've also done so in German in Leipzig. After a few weeks of uncertainty, I now know that I will be able to make it here this year, which is a good reassurance.

It is so good to hear from you all. Continued good luck with everything, and God's continued blessings.

Vikar Jacobson

woohoo for dreams

2004-10-06T15:11:00.000-05:00

I am so glad that you had one of your dreams fulfilled Christopher. One of mine would to be to go horseback riding. I had yesterday off to spend with Carla. We are getting ready for our trip. Yep, Mommy and daughter time only. I am taking her on her first cruise to celebrate her 25th birthday. Or maybe I told you all that already. I am so excited about her being excited that I sometimes forget you knows this story and who doesn't.

We are averaging a funeral every six days since I came. I am not sure that is a good average. My Sunday school class has increased from eight the first Sunday to 22 last Sunday. What in the world? Where are these kids coming from? Something about pillow fights in church I guess.

David has been up beet hauling so the weekend got a little long for me. He should be done this Thursday or Friday.

Michael has moved to the cities. He is a student at Rasmussen College. They have a brand new Pharmacy Tech program and he is enrolled. Say a prayer that this time he will finish.

Well back to preparing the ladies' Bible study leaders guide.

Love and prayers to you all.

I got to preach!!!

2004-10-04T13:36:00.000-05:00

What a week. There's been a lot of visits to make lately. We did home communion visits this week, along with a few visits to the hospital. There have been a couple of folks in the hospital lately, so I've been getting used to where the hospitals are. Our plans changed up yesterday afternoon when we had someone go back into the hospital in Mason City, so we had to make a run down there. That's really the extension of the ministry of the church, right there.

Before I talk about preaching, I have to mention that I fulfilled a dream on Friday night. I had mentioned in passing a couple of weeks ago that I'd always wanted to work the "chain gang" at a football game. The guy I was talking to said that he could talk to the folks at the high school and would see what he could do. So, on Friday, at Glenville-Emmons Homecoming game versus Alden-Conger (gotta love consolidated school districts), I was working the chains. For about 2 1/2 quarters, I worked the "clip" which marks the actual yard lines on the chains in case of measurement. The other 1 1/2, I was able to work one of the yard markers, the actual chains. We had to go out onto the field for a measurement after a 4th down play for AC with about a minute to go. The measurement was at my end, so I had the best seat in the house for AC coming up short, and GE winning 14-8. Good times. I'll probably work the chains again for the game on the 15th. Fun. :D

PREACHING! Woo Hoo! I got to lead pretty much the entire service on Sunday, because my supervisor was filling in for another pastor at another church. The sermon went pretty well. The text was Luke 17:5-10. I got to use the metaphor of the painter. You wouldn't walk into an art gallery and say "My, what wonderful paintings that brush has made." You say, "My, what wonderful paintings that painter has made." The brush is still there. The brush is still acting. But all the credit goes to the painter. So, when it comes to faith and work, it does not matter the size of our brush (faith). What matters is that we are the brush in the hand of the Master. Sweeeet. :D My next Sunday preaching is Oct. 31, which we all know what that is. It's our "contemporary" service, so I'm hoping to bring out my Heretics T-shirt.

Well, that's last week. Next week, we bring 4-6 graders to a Corn Maze nearby, and I will be assisting with a wedding on Saturday. Blessings to all!

In Christ's Hope,
Christopher

...And now the latest news from me

2004-10-02T14:35:00.000-05:00

Hello Everybody!

Thanks for staying tuned for my latest update. As the country music comedienne Minnie Pearl used to would say, "I am just a proud to be here." And to add my own twist to it, "...In Fond du Lac. A proud Viking amongst the Packers." Everything is coming up roses, and the welcome mat has truly been rolled out for me in everyway. All praises be to God.

First of all, I finally received my own set of wheels just before leaving to come here...Hallelujah (smile). I went out to the dealership with Mom expecting to receive at least a two year old car, but ended up with the blessings of a brand spanking new one. I tore the tag off it (in a matter of speaking). Since the road that leads to here from my hometown is a two lane all the way, Mom wanted to make certain I would have a car that wouldn't put me down or cause trouble whenever I needed to travel because of our known winters here.

Everywhere we inquired, the Honda kept coming up as the best road car. So much for wanting to drive an American one. I am now driving a 2004 Honda Accord, four wheel drive, side air bags, and lots of extras. But most of all, IT IS ROOMY!!! Mom and I prayed before going to look, and God certainly met us there, that's for sure. I am yet on cloud nine at present (smile).

Anyhow, I have my own personal office at the church. They had personal business cards made for me along with a hospital ID for hospital visits, and a church ID in order to be recognized at the different church events. My picture was placed in the town newspaper as the church's new intern along with a worship schedule. A library ID was given to me in order to check out needed materials when called for. I tell you, this church has it together, believe me. I was given a special installation service, and also a reception to personally meet members of the congregation. I really felt blessed and accepted. It was beautiful.

I shadow the pastors just about everywhere they go. The senior pastor told me from the beginning that he would teach me everything I needed to know about running a church and the duties of a pastor. Thus far, he is fulfilling every bit of what he has said. He also stated that if I ever became tired or overworked, just let him know and he would cut back. A pastor's work is plentiful, but they also must take time off to rest, relax, and enjoy life with family and friends. I truly try to stay busy and put forth my greatest effort to absorb it all while I have the golden opportunity. I want to be the best at what I do, and aim for the stars and beyond. Pastor also told me to keep a personal journal of all that I do here as a reference which will benefit me later on. I found this to be a wise suggestion, and took heed to it.

I am now doing shut-in and hosptial visits on my own, and involved in ministries such as WELCA, senior high Sunday School and activities, and confirmation. I am also helping with wedding and funeral preparations and services. I mostly work with the associate pastor during youth activities. She seems really thrilled over the different ideas I bring forth. During my first night helping her, the youth stayed around and played the game I presented much longer than anticipated. We were quite shocked. I am glad they have taken a liking to me (smile). I must admit, I was nervous when I was first introduced to them.

WHeeew!! Okay Chris, I promise I will not wait several weeks before my next posting. So much happens in between. There is more I want to relate, but I am running out of time. So, I am going to bring things to a close until next time.

I pray God's richest blessings upon all of you. My fervent prayer is that his mighty hand protect and guide you.

In His Love and Peace,
Natacha
Ephesians 6:10-20

Stay Tuned For...

2004-10-01T13:47:00.000-05:00

Howdy All!!!

Glad to here all is well. I am putting together some updates that have happened since my last posting. Stay tuned for it. I am having the time of my life here; God's blessings are abundant. I am not getting lost nearly as much now when I do visitations, and I am always meeting new people in the congregation.

Right now the youth are having a Brat Fry in Brownsville to raise money for a Boundary Waters trip. I am the Chief Grill Chef and lovin' it. We are selling brats, hamburgers, chips, and pop. There is a side table we put up for all the toppings. Yuummmy!!! It is around lunch time now, and the people are pouring in...and taking lots of food with them for the road! When God's blessings rain down they pour.

Well, better get going. Need to get back to the grill to see how things are cookin'. Until we talk again... God's peace and love be with you all.

Blessings,
Natacha

What is my title again?

2004-09-30T09:03:00.000-05:00

Hi everyone. Christopher this was a really great idea. Where else can I blow steam and not get in trouble? Wow, what did Randy N. get me into. I am more like an acting associate than intern here. The last associate was asked to leave and she created a mess before she left and is still sticking her finger into it. I have been greeted with "so your Julie's replacement one too many times". I joke and laugh and tell them I am no one's replacement I am a whole new kind of trouble. Then they let me in the door and we visit and all is good. Now there is a little bit of a personnel clash that some people (who trust me) tried to pull me into. Yikes. I extricated myself from that one as quickly as possible.

On the lighter note: we did catechization last night and some of the kids faith statements gave me goose bumps. If they really are that attuned look out world some things could happen. We have one that I am going to take to Seminary with me when we take the 9th graders on their outing. Even though I have only been here two months and went on one retreat with the 10th graders some of them actually mentioned me in their statements. OY.

And about the mouse situation, I lied. I have caught a total of 12 now. Whoohoo. The weird part is there is one cat in my house and three roaming around the farm site. Don't eat mice I guess. Oh well peanut butter is cheap and the owl in my woods sure likes me. Take care. Love and prayers

Of Homecoming and housecleaning....

2004-09-28T14:30:00.000-05:00

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

Internship Uncensored

2004-09-28T13:03:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone, just trying to learn how to post, so the one that is blank just ignore. Things are going well here in sunny San Jose, CA. So far things are beginning to pickup speed and I'm getting more and more busy. This past weekend after worship I hopped in the car and headed down to Anaheim to see my girlfriend, what I didn't know is that it is about a 370mile drive across one mountain range, through the desert, across another mountain range and through LA traffic, it was definitely an adventure, but it was good to see Jessi. Then I headed back the next day, just a little hint, don't wait to fillup gas when you are in the middle of the desert as you will end up paying 2.50 a gallon. I have to say that I'm a little jealous with Bones being 1/4 done, I'm looking forward to being at that point in a few months. I just heard on the radio that there was a 5.9 earthquake centered about 125 miles south of here, it was felt from San Francisco all the way to LA, but I didn't feel it, I'm ready to get my first earthquake over with just to see what it is like. Well I hope you all are doing well and I'll be in touch.

In Christ
Jared

Internship Uncensored

2004-09-28T12:53:00.000-05:00

Internship Uncensored

Help I'm feeling old

2004-09-27T11:19:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone. My daughter is officially 25-years-old today. I am feeling a little old, or maybe it was doing cartwheels with my 6th and 7th grade girls last night. Hmmmm. Sometimes I really feel my enthusiam for life. I think I caught my last mouse in my cottage in the woods. We are in full swing here with a building project that is threatening to split the congregation. Y'all pray for me. Someone in the congregation paid for seven days at Curves for me and someone else bought me a year's membership to the Concert society. I am not sure what they are trying to tell me but they are both things I wanted so all is good. I need to get back to what they are paying me for so. Take care. Love and prayers