Volunteers have been down in Fellowship Hall since 9 am this morning, hard at work packing at least 530 backpacks. Thanks to everyone who contributed their time, talents and treasure to this project.
Pack their Packs Update
Voice of the Day: Telling the Truth
In his book, Touch: Pressing Agains the Wounds of a Broken World, Pastor Rudy Rasmus relates some of the lessons he learned from his dad. My favorite was:
“Telling the truth may be painful, but you don’t have to remember what you said the last time.”
I think this is a great point, and it’s one I try to always keep in mind when difficult situations and subjects arise.
Update: Graveside Services for Rowene McClure
Rowene McClure passed away early this morning. Graveside services will be held at Fawn Creek Cemetery northeast of Tyro on Wednesday, August 11, 2010 at 10 am. Penwell-Gabel has the full obituary.
Another Pack Their Packs Update
We received $697 in special offerings for Pack Their Packs. A hearty thanks to everyone who contributed.
Change the World 2011
I received an email from United Methodist Communications announcing that another Change the World weekend will be held in 2011 on May 14-15. In April of 2010 we were one of over 1,000 churches that took part in the first event.
Back to School Bible Study
I’m considering an eight week back-to-school Bible study on the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Philippians. My thought is to have it on Thursday afternoons at 5:15 pm, beginning August 26, 2010. The study guide I’m looking at is by N. T. Wright, I’ll have a copy for people to look at and a sign-up sheet this coming Sunday. Amazon.com has a description. The study format is a brief introduction to each passage, followed by questions to be completed at home and then shared with the class.
The cost of books are $8 from amazon.com but only $6.40 from Cokesbury. The ISBN is 978-0-8308-2191-4 if you want to order your own.
We're Back
Jenny, Elizabeth and I got back into Coffeyville yesterday in time for the Trustee meeting at 5:15 pm.
Taking a Break from the Lord's Work
Some family members sent us an article from the New York Times about the need for clergy to take time off. The providential timing could not have been better, we’re leaving today to head up to Council Grove. Elizabeth will spend the night with Grandma and Papa and Jenny and I will be staying at the Cottage House. The article reminds me that I need to actually take this time off and not use it for planning purposes.
Voice of the Day: Brian Walker
Recently, Jenny and I had the opportunity to ask Brian Walker what he would change about the church to make it more youth friendly. He response:
“Get rid of the people who complain because they drive new people away. … New people want to go someplace positive. … does complaining open hearts, minds, and doors?”
It’s a good point. How attractive can the gospel be when presented by people who have nothing positive to say.