I’ve summarized the thoughts of the clergy women I interviewed. Everything shared here does not include anecdotes that may have been shared in private. Everything relates the openness of their ministry and what I took away that can be applied to my own faith journey and path towards seminary. There were also some Pastor/clergy women that were on leave or were not available this summer. I am planning on meeting with them soon. Since I am in the discernment process discussing my faith journey with clergy women was very empowering. I want to always be in conversation with people who are walking the path of faith, men or women. However for where I am at and where I was, speaking with clergy women was another step in discerning my call.
This is the most vital culmination of my summer because I have learned so much from these women. These women have shown me overwhelming kindness with their time. This is a way to make their stories known, please feel free to share with anyone.
First I need to begin with the woman who started it all:
Rev. Stephanie Alschwede, Pastor at Dietze Memorial-Omaha, founder of Big Gardens and Blue Flamingo Thrift
Without her inspiration for my summer I would have never done any of this. It was Stephanie who sought me out to spend a summer with Flamingos, Churches and Gardens. Through her work I have never been more exposed to diversity or what diversity means. The root causes of suffering. How we can be agents of change. What it means to be positive. What it means to seek justice inside our community. Stephanie makes her dreams a reality by untiring work. Anytime you want to know anything about a non-profit, neighborhood council meetings or want to talk strategy related to omaha underbelly "whose who?", she is THE person to go to. I have soaked up these qualities like a sponge, so much so I have water dripping from the corners and onto any surface I approach. It has given me confidence to pursue my own dreams. I feel like I have been interviewing her all summer by observing but also by spending time amongst the ministries UMM works on every day. Through the internship I have had exposure to the work of many others, inside and outside the office. People that have also had a profound effect on me. I can't wait to explore what I can offer in different ministries but I am glad that I had the opportunity to be here. The right place, the right time.
Original Questions:
What makes a strong leader?/ What experiences have you encountered as a woman in ministry?/What causes you to doubt?/ How do you overcome this?/ What is your most powerful tool as a leader and how did you discover this?/ If you woke up tomorrow and the church was how you imagined it, what would it look like? How do you see the church becoming more Christ-like?/ What are some important discoveries you made during seminary?/ How did you discern your seminary?/How do you deal with conflict? What is your preferred method/style?
Rev. Pauletta Lehn, chaplain at Nebraska Wesleyan University
Valuable Gifts to Ministry:
The ability to laugh, to create joy
When in doubt, relating it back to our human capabilities
Communicating what is relevant, the importance of relevancy in general
“I would rather live in hope because that is where the beauty is”
Thoughts concerning Ministry/Seminary:
It must be self-empyting, as well as, self-fulfilling. I loved this saying because it relates perfectly the self giving nature of Pauletta’s ministry but also how she utilizes the tools around her to be self fulfilling as well. It acknowledges the kind of work that social justice and pastoral ministry is. Sometimes self emptying can be hard but self fulfilling creates a very circular method
“Mystique about always becoming the resurrected Christ” There is always the creative power of the resurrected Christ within each of us. This allows constant creativity in our ministries and within the church
Ask yourself what only you can give, what gift can I only give? Your specific gifts benefit the community; that is where the greatest joy is, where the fruits are.
We must never lose the peace within us when serving, this comes with what is the cornerstone of our faith
Being able to go to Boston Theological Seminary was a way to “walk in the shadows” of prophets like Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Summary:
There is an immense joy that radiates from the ministry and also from who Pauletta is. That comes through humor and asking questions of the people around her. It also comes from living in hope, in creativity and through our gifts that we can give one another. I took away that I need to find the gifts I have and give them, otherwise the community I am serving will not benefit as much. Also, there is suppose to be a certain mystique when serving that comes through living in hope, even when we may be in doubt.
Rev. Nan Kaye-Skinner, Pastor at Ralston Trinity, Ralston, NE
Valuable gifts to Ministry:
Growing up in the church, as well as during the 60’s was able to grow up asking questions and see how ministry was carried out
Going to school in California, living in a different place, made an appreciation for the sense of community you can find in Nebraska, as opposed to some commuter neighborhoods/busy lifestyle you can find in California
Important to have a diversity of knowledge. If a chef comes in to make a meal or an engineer is building onto the building, being able to communicate with all types of people is a gift. Having a diverse knowledge of different areas besides ministry, makes you a better minister.
Thoughts concerning ministry:
Wherever I am there is my ministry – When I asked how does she balance a life at home or with her family and being a minister. That no matter where she may travel her ministry is also there. Since it is a ministry of being in relationship with one another.
When there is an opportunity for conflict, approach it so the light is shining, don’t avoid it. Take opportunities to be in dialogue with your congregation- This was given as a way to preach tough controversial sermons at times but allow that space for dialogue as well.
Summary:
I was able to tour the new building they were building. The nursery was placed in the very dead center of the church, to represent where the church was going. The kitchen, and gymnasium were completely redone and gorgeous. There was also space for traveling mission teams to come through. They installed a shower and place for them to sleep, which was very much a symbol for their activity outside the church. There was also a place as you enter for a wall of crosses. The crosses were given by members, sometimes from their travels. I thought Nan carried a very informed, hopeful and flexible gift to her church. She was extremely open to new ideas but also serving her community. She had such an amazing experience growing up in front of a church family. She had peace, which is a gift in and of itself. It was a joy getting to know her ministry.
Rev. Debra McKnight, Omaha First United Methodist
Valuable Gifts to Ministry:
The ability to be in discussion and not an argument- This is still a line that I use quite frequently when talking to someone. Debra was able to see the difference, which creates peace in her ministry.
I don’t think Debra mentioned this, but her ability to create laughter as a way to break down barriers with others.
Her office is also a space that allows for discussion. Pictures, crosses, her robe, all identify ways in which we can break down barriers towards a dream of justice for all.
Thoughts concerning ministry/seminary:
Preaching as form of oppression- This was a paper topic she chose while in a class at Perkins. This describes not only her intelligence but also her ability to examine the ways in which we approach our ministries, how can we change the way we look at ministry.
Her talk of Perkins has also inspired a visit this coming October.
Summary:
When I was talking to Debra, it felt like I was talking to a friend. This is a major strength in her ministry. It redefined what a pastor is and can be. I am in awe of her intelligence and how she uses this in her ministry. Debra was one of the most inspiring women I met because she seemed so contemplative and yet so easy to talk to. Her work with young adults is innovative and breaks down the boundaries for what it means to serve and do justice.
Rev. Charlotte Abram, Tri-Community Pastor Omaha
Valuable Gifts to Ministry:
Developing your own mission statement- Rev. Charlotte recommended “Jesus in BlueJeans” as a way to explore a possible mission statement for myself
Nothing can outlast God-This was a beautiful idea concerning despairing events that can lead to doubt, such as Desmond Tutu imprisoned, the Berlin Wall. However, in our lifetime we have seen both of these things be stopped, Desmond Tutu released and the Berlin Wall torn down.
There are many disparaging things around us but we must remember that nothing has been able to outlast God. God is always present.
Thoughts concerning Ministry:
Stories disarm people- When asked how she decides to preach a sermon, I asked her why or how she chose to use stories. This was the answer I gave and I believe it to be true. I will use this practice.
Ministry is relational- The opportunity to form the deepest relationships with people comes from the pastoral ministry in funerals. It is a deep time of sorrow and she found this to be the most profound time for healing and work of a pastor who is willing to be with the family.
Never too big to fail, Never too small to win
Summary:
Rev. Charlotte is someone I truly admire. She holds the power of a woman who truly believes in God. She carries that faith with her wherever she goes in such a powerful way. I found it hard to write down thoughts because I was so trapped in her story. A story of courage and triumph over great odds. These stories are worth sharing but are better told by the storyteller. I believe the things that make us who we are do not define our destiny. She is pastor who lives in hope and the work of everyday ministry. So hearing her story was powerful because it reminded me what a gift it is to even be pursuing the option of being a pastor or working for justice. I have come after the trials of those before me but I live in hope. That is what I will take away from Rev. Charlotte
Rev. Susan Davies, owner of Soul Desires book store, former pastor and D.S
Valuable Gifts to Ministry:
The ability to take time and rest- spent a year of journeying which led to the creation of soul desires. The name for Soul Desires came from a suggestion table set up at their home. After putting a few words together, the name was created.
The right place, right time, every time- as it is related to her ministry
Forming relationships is the basis of any ministry
Our generation wants all the answer to things; there is sometimes no answer
Thoughts concerning Ministry/Seminary:
Creating a safe place for safe dialogue- Concerning an area of conversation in Soul Desires book store, towards the back of the store. You are able to sign up for a time slot
Call to Ministry comes from the local church. Seeing the work of church members advocating for those around them was eye opening
McCormack Theological seminary, largest women population at the time, provided a very powerful/encouraging experience.
Relationships- best relationship ministry there is, is journeying with a commentary of people
Summary:
Meeting with Susan was a real pleasure because she is living a dream of mine. To open up my own shop of some kind. Just seeing how she interacted with customers and asked all the right questions. The coffee table area was a great example and testament to all the people who walked through the doors to Soul Desires. All different walks of life but all welcome. Not to mention the plethora of wonderful books made available to the Omaha Community. Her hopeful message of church and being in relationship with others, is what I will take away. Loving intelligently is also a good way to describe the Soul Desires ministry. It is also a place we need to support in this economy. So go buy some good books!
Rev. Jane Florence, Omaha First United Methodist Church
Valuable Gifts towards Ministry:
Has an undergrad in sociology/English. Also was a principle at private Christian school in Corpus Christi, had the opportunity to be a chaplain there. Led to a discovery of wanting to be a pastor
Had to reconcile Southern Baptist roots (women are not able to be ordained)
Decided there was a better argument for God, “ok lets see where this goes”
This led to Perkins
Thoughts concerning Ministry/Seminary:
During Perkins was able to embrace roots “dismantling” all of this
Learning the covenants, able to name “day off” as “Sabbath”. This approach enables you to not take part in what is an ongoing job.
Delegating leads to empowering
Went from being a moderate/conservative to a progressive Christian theologically.
Summary:
I loved how Pastor Jane weaved in her own family struggles with the power of God’s call. This was an important thing for me to hear, as well as, her intelligence towards ministry. Her struggles with a bigger congregation that led to taking time off, showed me that answering God’s call is never going to be easy. It is a constant revelation it seems. I admire the work that First Church is able to do. It was a real joy to be able to hear the strength in her ministry and how simultaneously challenged and happy Pastor Jane is in her ministry.
These are some wonderful interviews I had with women in Ministry:
Diana Faust, St. Andrews- Omaha, Director of Vital Faith Formation
I was able to see the new building project of St. Andrews located in West Omaha. The building is very transformed and is a very large ministry. It is also a vibrant one. As I walked through the doors the children were rehearsing a play as part of the arts ministry. The offices were all brightly lit with people working during the summer. Diana’s office was very organized and put together. This is a very unique example of what she is able to accomplish with her ministries through her organizational skills. The very vibrant ministry of “Divorce Care” and “Divorce Care 4 Kids”, is a way to provide support and understanding to families going through this. I really appreciated her taking the time to chat with me and hear about her faith journey. The vibrancy of her ministry reflects her dedication and organization.
Barbara Jo Burns, Kearney NE, served in the district office, as well as, many committees, secretary of school of Christian Mission-I truly enjoyed talking with Barbara Jo. She has a very unique voice that is worth hearing. She saw herself as a natural mediator and I would have to agree. She is a person who seeks first to understand and is able to see both sides in a very genuine way. She believes in inclusive language and the ability to be in relationship with others in a non-confrontational way. How can we all be in relationship with each other? The most telling thing I will take away is, my generation cannot expect people to constantly approach us. We must also respect that which has been done. The work of countless women, like the ones at The School of Christian mission. I walked away wanting to take a greater responsibility for forming those relationships. Barbara Jo was also extremely personable and willing to share her stories with me. She truly has lived a life of forming relationships with anyone and everyone around her. I truly enjoyed getting to know her.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Culmination
I had the opportunity to learn what it feels like to be in the presence of amazing clergy women for an entire summer. To see the work and ministry of clergy women as they grace this earth with their strength, kindness, compassion and intelligence, is unforgettable and humbling. Each woman in ministry was shining a light on an area unattended to. Each clergy woman’s story a chance to see possibility and hope, as well as, the day to day triumphs and struggles. I felt that each pastor shared their hardships and their joys genuinely. My only regret is that I did not record each session. I guess I had a fear of being too formal. I wanted the conversation to feel non-threatening, so I would hear what it was “really like” to be a United Methodist Pastor.
Being a minister has many implications but the most general one is that it is hard. It is hard to be in constant conversation with your congregation. Its hard to turn on the television and see destruction and chaos when you want to be delivering a message of hope and forgiveness. It’s extremely hard to balance a life outside of what you do when your work never ends. I brought my own faith struggle to the table as I sat in conversation, unknowingly sometimes but mostly strategic, asking questions that led to a singular idea: doubt. I wanted to know what caused them to doubt? Or, more importantly what bright light led them out of darkness when they were or are in doubt? You’re probably thinking, “How could it be that, a pre-seminary intern who didn’t join the church till college is doubting if being a pastor is what she wants to do?” Obvious I’m sure but sometimes our rose colored glasses don’t always make the world so transparent.
Through this project two wonderful things happened: seminary became a confirmed dream of mine, not a way to dodge the bad economy. Seminary, with all of my doubts, is where I feel called right now.
The second gift of the summer was these extraordinary women who I thought would be too busy to talk to me, too busy to answer an email, were excited to talk about their faith journeys and the happenings of the ministries going on around them. They made themselves available and an open book. Most importantly they were hopeful.
Interviewing women led me to two questions that follow me till this day: Why don’t I listen more and why don’t WE listen more? Are we so afraid of what we might let in or what people might think that we can’t be in conversation? Unfortunately you wont find the answer to these questions. Im not blessed with as many answers as I am questions. I can only say with my own testimony that listening is what caused me to find my next step in ministry. By providing a space for a conversation, with my intention being simply to learn and to listen, I did.
e
Being a minister has many implications but the most general one is that it is hard. It is hard to be in constant conversation with your congregation. Its hard to turn on the television and see destruction and chaos when you want to be delivering a message of hope and forgiveness. It’s extremely hard to balance a life outside of what you do when your work never ends. I brought my own faith struggle to the table as I sat in conversation, unknowingly sometimes but mostly strategic, asking questions that led to a singular idea: doubt. I wanted to know what caused them to doubt? Or, more importantly what bright light led them out of darkness when they were or are in doubt? You’re probably thinking, “How could it be that, a pre-seminary intern who didn’t join the church till college is doubting if being a pastor is what she wants to do?” Obvious I’m sure but sometimes our rose colored glasses don’t always make the world so transparent.
Through this project two wonderful things happened: seminary became a confirmed dream of mine, not a way to dodge the bad economy. Seminary, with all of my doubts, is where I feel called right now.
The second gift of the summer was these extraordinary women who I thought would be too busy to talk to me, too busy to answer an email, were excited to talk about their faith journeys and the happenings of the ministries going on around them. They made themselves available and an open book. Most importantly they were hopeful.
Interviewing women led me to two questions that follow me till this day: Why don’t I listen more and why don’t WE listen more? Are we so afraid of what we might let in or what people might think that we can’t be in conversation? Unfortunately you wont find the answer to these questions. Im not blessed with as many answers as I am questions. I can only say with my own testimony that listening is what caused me to find my next step in ministry. By providing a space for a conversation, with my intention being simply to learn and to listen, I did.
e
Encore
Pay It Forward Project
In an effort to continue my growth in preparation for seminary and to remain in relationship with the clergy women I met, I want to do a pay it forward project. I thought about all the different ways in which someone receives justice but the most powerful one is being in relationship. Through continued relationship building and finding areas to work for justice, I hope to build a stronger idea of the work of a pastor. More importantly, in order to pay it forward, I will ask pastors to identify an area of justice building ministry where I can be of service. I’ve left this area of “service” very broad because I want to serve the church community in the best way I can. While utilizing my gifts that have been more clearly identified this summer
The three main components will be:
Continued relationship building with pastors in Omaha
Continued exposure to relationship building within diverse communities
and Relationship building surrounded by justice work
I will keep in conversation with Omaha clergy women about areas of great need. Then I will ask them to identify an area of need dealing with social justice service areas within their ministries. While I may not be able to offer any input during the planning stages, I will be able to offer my volunteer hours towards a specific day or project. Or maybe in a larger way, depending on what the need is.
I’m looking forward to being creative with these local clergy women in ways we can all work for justice.
e
In an effort to continue my growth in preparation for seminary and to remain in relationship with the clergy women I met, I want to do a pay it forward project. I thought about all the different ways in which someone receives justice but the most powerful one is being in relationship. Through continued relationship building and finding areas to work for justice, I hope to build a stronger idea of the work of a pastor. More importantly, in order to pay it forward, I will ask pastors to identify an area of justice building ministry where I can be of service. I’ve left this area of “service” very broad because I want to serve the church community in the best way I can. While utilizing my gifts that have been more clearly identified this summer
The three main components will be:
Continued relationship building with pastors in Omaha
Continued exposure to relationship building within diverse communities
and Relationship building surrounded by justice work
I will keep in conversation with Omaha clergy women about areas of great need. Then I will ask them to identify an area of need dealing with social justice service areas within their ministries. While I may not be able to offer any input during the planning stages, I will be able to offer my volunteer hours towards a specific day or project. Or maybe in a larger way, depending on what the need is.
I’m looking forward to being creative with these local clergy women in ways we can all work for justice.
e
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Sermon at Dietz Memorial in Omaha
Find a quiet moment or a divine intervention will
Mark 6: 14-29
Death of John the Baptist
“King Herod heard of it, for Jesus name had become known. Some were saying, “John the Baptizer has been raised from the dead; and for this reason these powers are at work in him.” But others said, “It is Elijah.” And others said, “It is a prophet like one of the prophets of old.” But when Herod heard of it, he said, “John whom I beheaded, has been raised.” For Herod himself had sent men who arrested John, bound him, and put him in prison on account of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife, because Herod had married her. For John had been telling Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.” And Herodias had a grudge against him, and wanted to kill him. But she could not, for Herod feared John, knowing that he was a righteous and holy man, and he protected him. When he heard him, he was greatly perplexed; and yet he liked to listen to him. But an opportunity came when Herod on his birthday gave a banquet for his courtiers and officers and for the leaders of Galilee. When his daughter Herodias came in and danced she pleased Herod and his guests; and the king said to the girl, “Ask me for whatever you wish, and I will give it.” And he solemnly swore to her, “Whatever you ask me, I will give you, even half of my kingdom.” She went out and said to her mother, “What should I ask for?” She replied, “The head of John the Baptizer.” Immediately she rushed back to the king and requested, “I want you to give me at once the head of John the Baptist on a platter.” The king was deeply grieved; yet out of regard for his oaths and for the guests, he did not want to refuse her. Immediately the king sent a soldier of the guard with orders to bring John’s head. He went and beheaded him in the prison, brought his head on a platter and gave it to the girl. Then the girl gave it to her mother. When his disciples heard about it, they came and took his body, and laid it in a tomb.”
Some may be wondering why I chose to read this scripture and not Psalm 24. Why choose to preach about the death of a holy man and not the carrying of the ark as a celebration of Jesus? I have a connection to John the Baptist that dates back to the start of my freshman year of high school. I was playing John the Baptist/Judas and my brother was playing Jesus. A very non-traditional cast and an experience I will never forget. At the beginning of the show the music from John Lennon’s “Imagine” came over the sound system. As my feet slowly led me to the spotlight centerstage I could hear the words “Imagine there is no heaven , Imagine there is no hell…imagine all the people living for today”. I was wearing a mask and in a jekyl and hyde fashion I had to remove my mask, as a symbol for removing the world, removing material things. The chorus came out and there was this girl who stood out from the rest of the chorus. An extremely talented actress caught in the cross fire of being an extremely driven performer and a teenager fighting her hard lived past. She was on the cusp of letting go of the girl she truly was. Every night I would go over to her and take off her mask (after John the Baptist had taken off his own) and stare into her eyes as the mask came off her face. As I tore off her mask you could truly see the person that was screaming to get out, if only she could close the ideas and thoughts of the world and her past. The audience would remember the death of Jesus at the hands of Judas but they always recalled that moment to me after the show.
I know that the death of John the Baptist is an important point of discussion but I am more interested in how John the Baptist found himself in a position where he was killed for his work for others. How a king could betray a holy man in order to fulfill his worldly debts and orders. First it is important to understand some of the context and intention for the story.
We must recognize that John the Baptist was a man who stood up for everyone and died at the hands of a man who stood up for no one. Herod was a man attached to the things of this world. Mark also tells the death of John the Baptist in a very non idealistic and abstract way. It is apart of a historical tradition, an important one but what we get out of the scripture is not as inspiring as many others, to say the least. We do see that John the Baptist represents the work of Jesus, as John the Baptist dies at the hands of a secular ruler and is killed for his life and dies a martyr’s death. I believe that why we still listen to this story today is because it is a warning for all of us in a way. Herod is in a tug of war with Herodias and John. Herodias has a lot to lose for a woman in this time period. If she loses her appointment as his wife then she loses everything, all her rights and most likely will be shunned after leaving the enclosed community. John is working to get Herod to repent and see how he can use his power for good. While it is easy to dismiss Herod as a weak human being, it is important to see Herod in each of us. How each of us is swayed towards important rulers, a woman’s dance, etc. How do we move from our attachments to this world, from ego to soul; from love of self to love of others. Where do we even start? How do we live a life more like John the Baptist did?
I have a secret to share, in my car I am a rapper. I think I can rap a song with a very convincing swagger and tone but if I were ever to grace the stage with my skills I would most likely be shunned. However, Lauryn Hill a singer/songwriter/rapper got me to thinking seriously about what would move me from love of self to love for others. How I could become more like John the Baptist. Her song is “Everything is Everything”, in it she says,
“Sometimes it seems we’ll touch that dream/But things come slow or not at all/ And the ones on top/ Wont make it stop/ So convinced that they might fall/Let’s love ourselves so we can’t fail to make a better situation/ Tomorrow our seeds will grow/ All we need is dedication.”
“Let’s love ourselves then we can’t fail”. Without even noticing it, I had forgotten how to do that, to take that first step: to love ourselves so that we cannot fail, against the work that we set out to do.
How did John the Baptist overcome his thoughts and his opposition against his own doubts to find himself? How did he finally believe in God’s call for his own life?
I believe he found a quiet moment when he went into the woods to hear God’s voice. He became intentional about hearing God’s voice. After all, if we really want to be intentional about hearing God’s voice we must take the time, or a period of time to hear it. I finally heard and understood what God wanted me to do first before I could live a life of opposition that social justice leads.
My quiet moment didn’t come until I found myself an ocean away from home, in Italy, away from everything I knew or lived. There is an Italian saying, “Vivi e lascia vivere”. It means “Live your life and let others live theirs”. Basically mind your own business. Up until that point, my life had become something of a funhouse. Everyone holding up a bunch of mirrors telling me who I was and I was becoming something of an act myself. It wasn’t until I hit a wall, literally, that I finally found a moment to hear God’s voice.
Now what I am about to share is like most coming of age stories, embarrassing and painful. After two weeks of going out, every single night I was exhausted. Going to clubs, hanging out with tons of new and exciting people, it had never occurred to me to say no to all these invitations. I was also helping a friend through a tough time and the word reflection or quiet had become a distant daydream of mine. So, I was getting ready and started scurrying down a hallway I had been down a million times. As I went to turn the corner with my head down, I turned it too soon and hit my head against a wall. I blacked out for a bit and then started seeing spots. The sturdy Italian wall had caused me stop dead in my tracks. I somehow made my way downstairs and for fear of crying in front of my newly found group of friends, I made some excuse and quickly headed upstairs. I got to my room and locked the door. For the first time I was truly alone. My silence rushed through me like a breath of relief. I could hear my teacher’s voice saying, “I hope it doesn’t take your ipod, your computer and your phone to fall apart before you find a quiet moment.” This time a quiet moment had finally found me. And no one holding a mirror. I crossed the room to my mirror to examine the hideous bump. As I stared at myself in the mirror a voice came over my internal intercom saying, “You don’t like yourself very much, do you?” And I answered it outloud saying, “No I don’t.” And then the tears just came streaming down my face. I can’t remember falling asleep or how sleep came over me. That’s what happens when you are truly tired. I went to bed and awoke the next morning to the bells of the church that held Da Vinci’s “Last Supper”. The weight of my past and the bump had mysteriously disappeared. I believe that moment was a divine intervention from God, saying stop and take a moment to find yourself. Take a minute to live your life, to redefine your own destiny.
There are people who have been through much worse coming of age stories. People who have truly survived hell and lived to tell about it. The truth is we all having something to stand up for, like John the Baptist did but we must hear that voice in some form before we can rush to our destiny. A modern day hero of mine is Rosemary Radfur Ruther is something of a John the Baptist. A professor of mine told me a story of hers while she was walking through the city streets with her one night. They were approaching an ally way and could hear voices, a man’s loud voice yelling at a woman and verbally abusing her. As Rosemary turned the corner she could see the man and without hesitation stared at him and in a very assertive voice said, “We are not leaving or moving from this place until you let this woman go.” My professor told me the man stopped yelling and the woman was able to leave. After that moment no violence ensued on her or the group she was with. Rosemary stood up for something, just like many modern day people. Without reason or regard for her own safety.Now it doesn’t take a plane ride to Italy to find a quiet moment or putting your life in harms way to live a life similar to John the Baptist. A quiet moment is right here and right now and we must take it. After all we will meet opposition in our life and there is no way of knowing what kind of opposition we must endure but we must take the time to renew our inspirational source, for me that was learning to live my life and not simply endure.
Mark 6: 14-29
Death of John the Baptist
“King Herod heard of it, for Jesus name had become known. Some were saying, “John the Baptizer has been raised from the dead; and for this reason these powers are at work in him.” But others said, “It is Elijah.” And others said, “It is a prophet like one of the prophets of old.” But when Herod heard of it, he said, “John whom I beheaded, has been raised.” For Herod himself had sent men who arrested John, bound him, and put him in prison on account of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife, because Herod had married her. For John had been telling Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.” And Herodias had a grudge against him, and wanted to kill him. But she could not, for Herod feared John, knowing that he was a righteous and holy man, and he protected him. When he heard him, he was greatly perplexed; and yet he liked to listen to him. But an opportunity came when Herod on his birthday gave a banquet for his courtiers and officers and for the leaders of Galilee. When his daughter Herodias came in and danced she pleased Herod and his guests; and the king said to the girl, “Ask me for whatever you wish, and I will give it.” And he solemnly swore to her, “Whatever you ask me, I will give you, even half of my kingdom.” She went out and said to her mother, “What should I ask for?” She replied, “The head of John the Baptizer.” Immediately she rushed back to the king and requested, “I want you to give me at once the head of John the Baptist on a platter.” The king was deeply grieved; yet out of regard for his oaths and for the guests, he did not want to refuse her. Immediately the king sent a soldier of the guard with orders to bring John’s head. He went and beheaded him in the prison, brought his head on a platter and gave it to the girl. Then the girl gave it to her mother. When his disciples heard about it, they came and took his body, and laid it in a tomb.”
Some may be wondering why I chose to read this scripture and not Psalm 24. Why choose to preach about the death of a holy man and not the carrying of the ark as a celebration of Jesus? I have a connection to John the Baptist that dates back to the start of my freshman year of high school. I was playing John the Baptist/Judas and my brother was playing Jesus. A very non-traditional cast and an experience I will never forget. At the beginning of the show the music from John Lennon’s “Imagine” came over the sound system. As my feet slowly led me to the spotlight centerstage I could hear the words “Imagine there is no heaven , Imagine there is no hell…imagine all the people living for today”. I was wearing a mask and in a jekyl and hyde fashion I had to remove my mask, as a symbol for removing the world, removing material things. The chorus came out and there was this girl who stood out from the rest of the chorus. An extremely talented actress caught in the cross fire of being an extremely driven performer and a teenager fighting her hard lived past. She was on the cusp of letting go of the girl she truly was. Every night I would go over to her and take off her mask (after John the Baptist had taken off his own) and stare into her eyes as the mask came off her face. As I tore off her mask you could truly see the person that was screaming to get out, if only she could close the ideas and thoughts of the world and her past. The audience would remember the death of Jesus at the hands of Judas but they always recalled that moment to me after the show.
I know that the death of John the Baptist is an important point of discussion but I am more interested in how John the Baptist found himself in a position where he was killed for his work for others. How a king could betray a holy man in order to fulfill his worldly debts and orders. First it is important to understand some of the context and intention for the story.
We must recognize that John the Baptist was a man who stood up for everyone and died at the hands of a man who stood up for no one. Herod was a man attached to the things of this world. Mark also tells the death of John the Baptist in a very non idealistic and abstract way. It is apart of a historical tradition, an important one but what we get out of the scripture is not as inspiring as many others, to say the least. We do see that John the Baptist represents the work of Jesus, as John the Baptist dies at the hands of a secular ruler and is killed for his life and dies a martyr’s death. I believe that why we still listen to this story today is because it is a warning for all of us in a way. Herod is in a tug of war with Herodias and John. Herodias has a lot to lose for a woman in this time period. If she loses her appointment as his wife then she loses everything, all her rights and most likely will be shunned after leaving the enclosed community. John is working to get Herod to repent and see how he can use his power for good. While it is easy to dismiss Herod as a weak human being, it is important to see Herod in each of us. How each of us is swayed towards important rulers, a woman’s dance, etc. How do we move from our attachments to this world, from ego to soul; from love of self to love of others. Where do we even start? How do we live a life more like John the Baptist did?
I have a secret to share, in my car I am a rapper. I think I can rap a song with a very convincing swagger and tone but if I were ever to grace the stage with my skills I would most likely be shunned. However, Lauryn Hill a singer/songwriter/rapper got me to thinking seriously about what would move me from love of self to love for others. How I could become more like John the Baptist. Her song is “Everything is Everything”, in it she says,
“Sometimes it seems we’ll touch that dream/But things come slow or not at all/ And the ones on top/ Wont make it stop/ So convinced that they might fall/Let’s love ourselves so we can’t fail to make a better situation/ Tomorrow our seeds will grow/ All we need is dedication.”
“Let’s love ourselves then we can’t fail”. Without even noticing it, I had forgotten how to do that, to take that first step: to love ourselves so that we cannot fail, against the work that we set out to do.
How did John the Baptist overcome his thoughts and his opposition against his own doubts to find himself? How did he finally believe in God’s call for his own life?
I believe he found a quiet moment when he went into the woods to hear God’s voice. He became intentional about hearing God’s voice. After all, if we really want to be intentional about hearing God’s voice we must take the time, or a period of time to hear it. I finally heard and understood what God wanted me to do first before I could live a life of opposition that social justice leads.
My quiet moment didn’t come until I found myself an ocean away from home, in Italy, away from everything I knew or lived. There is an Italian saying, “Vivi e lascia vivere”. It means “Live your life and let others live theirs”. Basically mind your own business. Up until that point, my life had become something of a funhouse. Everyone holding up a bunch of mirrors telling me who I was and I was becoming something of an act myself. It wasn’t until I hit a wall, literally, that I finally found a moment to hear God’s voice.
Now what I am about to share is like most coming of age stories, embarrassing and painful. After two weeks of going out, every single night I was exhausted. Going to clubs, hanging out with tons of new and exciting people, it had never occurred to me to say no to all these invitations. I was also helping a friend through a tough time and the word reflection or quiet had become a distant daydream of mine. So, I was getting ready and started scurrying down a hallway I had been down a million times. As I went to turn the corner with my head down, I turned it too soon and hit my head against a wall. I blacked out for a bit and then started seeing spots. The sturdy Italian wall had caused me stop dead in my tracks. I somehow made my way downstairs and for fear of crying in front of my newly found group of friends, I made some excuse and quickly headed upstairs. I got to my room and locked the door. For the first time I was truly alone. My silence rushed through me like a breath of relief. I could hear my teacher’s voice saying, “I hope it doesn’t take your ipod, your computer and your phone to fall apart before you find a quiet moment.” This time a quiet moment had finally found me. And no one holding a mirror. I crossed the room to my mirror to examine the hideous bump. As I stared at myself in the mirror a voice came over my internal intercom saying, “You don’t like yourself very much, do you?” And I answered it outloud saying, “No I don’t.” And then the tears just came streaming down my face. I can’t remember falling asleep or how sleep came over me. That’s what happens when you are truly tired. I went to bed and awoke the next morning to the bells of the church that held Da Vinci’s “Last Supper”. The weight of my past and the bump had mysteriously disappeared. I believe that moment was a divine intervention from God, saying stop and take a moment to find yourself. Take a minute to live your life, to redefine your own destiny.
There are people who have been through much worse coming of age stories. People who have truly survived hell and lived to tell about it. The truth is we all having something to stand up for, like John the Baptist did but we must hear that voice in some form before we can rush to our destiny. A modern day hero of mine is Rosemary Radfur Ruther is something of a John the Baptist. A professor of mine told me a story of hers while she was walking through the city streets with her one night. They were approaching an ally way and could hear voices, a man’s loud voice yelling at a woman and verbally abusing her. As Rosemary turned the corner she could see the man and without hesitation stared at him and in a very assertive voice said, “We are not leaving or moving from this place until you let this woman go.” My professor told me the man stopped yelling and the woman was able to leave. After that moment no violence ensued on her or the group she was with. Rosemary stood up for something, just like many modern day people. Without reason or regard for her own safety.Now it doesn’t take a plane ride to Italy to find a quiet moment or putting your life in harms way to live a life similar to John the Baptist. A quiet moment is right here and right now and we must take it. After all we will meet opposition in our life and there is no way of knowing what kind of opposition we must endure but we must take the time to renew our inspirational source, for me that was learning to live my life and not simply endure.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Bread for the World
The conference for BFW was held in Washington DC, specifically American University. We spent a day and a half in workshops, discussing how we can invision a world without poverty and hunger. The last day was devoted to lobbying in front of our senators and representatives/foreign aid staff, also known as Lobby Day.
Washington DC is one of my favorite cities I have visited. It has an energy that is a mix between the underlying history of our nation and also the diversity of a city at the brink of what seems to be the blood, sweat and tears of working individuals. It is also full of power and aggressive tactics of people who do not know the meaning of a 9-5 work day. This type of environment was also reflected in the people I encountered at Bread for the World. A woman heading to Africa to use her love for writing to advocate for women who have a life expectancy of 38, a young woman headed to Northwestern whose parents came here from Haiti and who loves Michelle Obama more than myself, which is a hard task. Also, many powerful people involved in the push for the service God is calling us for related to the homeless and the poverty stricken. A man, who Newsweek deemed one of the top 8 people to watch for in 2009 and a speaker at BFW, called our generation the "anoited generation". Not the generation of facebook and twitter but a generation capable of leading us out of poverty and economic disparity.
I took two workshops, one concerning how we tell our stories and the power in our stories. The other one focused on photography and how we use these photos to tell a story. All the photographers used their art to convey messages about other cultures or growing social injustices.
The most invigorating part of the trip was definitely Lobby Day. We had set interviews with Senator Ben Nelson and Senator Mike Johanns. We were lobbying not for money but for reform to a bill entitled H.R. 2139 "The Initiating Foreign Assistance Reform Act". Asking senators to support this piece of legislation that is soon to be introduced. The Reform Act is initiating more sustainable ways we can interact with countries in order to reduce poverty. I thought I would be more nervous but we got a lot of training and information regarding the bill itself. Then everyone at the conference split into their different regional groups and then into seperate states. We were lucky to have an experienced lobbyist who had been doing work in foreign policy reform, who was originally from Egypt. He gave us many pointers on how to most effectively communicate. It was very comforting to know that Senator Johanns took the time to hear what we had to say and that he was willing to hear what we had to say regarding the bill. It was also exciting to be so passionate about a very bi-partisan issue such as fighting for the eradication of poverty and hunger.
Overall what I took away was that hunger does not know a race, a culture or type of person. You can set out to accomplish many things in life but sometimes the razor's edge of a world of unknowns can tornado you into an unexpected journey. I can see the effect that Bread for the World, as well as, my continued understanding of the ministries in Omaha is having on me. A person asks me for change and I am slow to say no. I am even quicker to provide dignity above all else, even if I am not comfortable in providing money. For now the feeling of hunger comes and goes but as it passes through me I can't help but remember those with constant hunger and how paralyzing that is. I think I finally understand what Johnny Cash was singing about in Folsom Prison Blues, that if God meant all, the prisoners, the homeless should be reached just as much as and just as devotly, as a mega church pursues its message of Jesus Christ as our Savior. All means All.
Washington DC is one of my favorite cities I have visited. It has an energy that is a mix between the underlying history of our nation and also the diversity of a city at the brink of what seems to be the blood, sweat and tears of working individuals. It is also full of power and aggressive tactics of people who do not know the meaning of a 9-5 work day. This type of environment was also reflected in the people I encountered at Bread for the World. A woman heading to Africa to use her love for writing to advocate for women who have a life expectancy of 38, a young woman headed to Northwestern whose parents came here from Haiti and who loves Michelle Obama more than myself, which is a hard task. Also, many powerful people involved in the push for the service God is calling us for related to the homeless and the poverty stricken. A man, who Newsweek deemed one of the top 8 people to watch for in 2009 and a speaker at BFW, called our generation the "anoited generation". Not the generation of facebook and twitter but a generation capable of leading us out of poverty and economic disparity.
I took two workshops, one concerning how we tell our stories and the power in our stories. The other one focused on photography and how we use these photos to tell a story. All the photographers used their art to convey messages about other cultures or growing social injustices.
The most invigorating part of the trip was definitely Lobby Day. We had set interviews with Senator Ben Nelson and Senator Mike Johanns. We were lobbying not for money but for reform to a bill entitled H.R. 2139 "The Initiating Foreign Assistance Reform Act". Asking senators to support this piece of legislation that is soon to be introduced. The Reform Act is initiating more sustainable ways we can interact with countries in order to reduce poverty. I thought I would be more nervous but we got a lot of training and information regarding the bill itself. Then everyone at the conference split into their different regional groups and then into seperate states. We were lucky to have an experienced lobbyist who had been doing work in foreign policy reform, who was originally from Egypt. He gave us many pointers on how to most effectively communicate. It was very comforting to know that Senator Johanns took the time to hear what we had to say and that he was willing to hear what we had to say regarding the bill. It was also exciting to be so passionate about a very bi-partisan issue such as fighting for the eradication of poverty and hunger.
Overall what I took away was that hunger does not know a race, a culture or type of person. You can set out to accomplish many things in life but sometimes the razor's edge of a world of unknowns can tornado you into an unexpected journey. I can see the effect that Bread for the World, as well as, my continued understanding of the ministries in Omaha is having on me. A person asks me for change and I am slow to say no. I am even quicker to provide dignity above all else, even if I am not comfortable in providing money. For now the feeling of hunger comes and goes but as it passes through me I can't help but remember those with constant hunger and how paralyzing that is. I think I finally understand what Johnny Cash was singing about in Folsom Prison Blues, that if God meant all, the prisoners, the homeless should be reached just as much as and just as devotly, as a mega church pursues its message of Jesus Christ as our Savior. All means All.
Annual Conference: A step onto foreign soil
I once heard that great leaders do not need to provide the answers, at least not all the time. They should be generous in providing questions that are agents of change and conversation. This is comforting to know, as I have many questions and I am following a path to leadership in ministry that has been paved, graveled and flowered with various questions about the church and our global world.
My first step...
It is unrealistic to assume complete certainty when you enter the unknown or a foreign place. Ther is an existing language and way of handling matters, that is better not to judge but to simply experience or get a taste of. The beautiful thing when stepping onto any foreign terrain your basic senses are on full alert to anything to help you make sense of it. My mind lends itself to the way people comunicate, how they treat each other. I am constatnly searching for what it is that makes people find common ground. The conference proved itself to be very interesting in terms of communication between people. How does a church body make decisions? What does "all" mean? What are we communicating to our youth members? These are all valid questions that find their way into my heart.
However, what I'll take away from the conference were found in a collage of simple moments.
The first piece...
A sermon given by Rev. Charlotte Abram asking us, "What do we want on our tombstone?". On every tombstone their is a dash in between the year of birth and the year of death and it is up to us to decide, what will we fight for? What will we stand up for? She gave the example of a Ku Klux Klan rally, where protestors of the Ku Klux Klan started to beat a KKK member. A brave soul emerged from the crowd and threw herself on top of the KKK member, she was African American. When the woman was asked why she did it she said, "It was the right thing to do." What we choose to fight for and what we choose to stand up for are defining moments in our life but Rev. Charlotte said we dont need to worry about, "where to walk because God is leading our footsteps and all we have to do is take that first step".
The second piece...
A group of Youth got up to the microphone and made their requets known for a more inclusive church. As a collective body of young people some of the requests were more modern music, an ability to serve on committees so their thoughts and ideas are made readily known to church elders. Their final pronouncement was, "we are not the future of the church, we are the church". Its so clear that there needs to be a stronger presence of youth, ages 18-35, in our church families and communities. It was inspiring to meet so many people working towards this but also to see the long road ahead if we want to get anything accomplished in inspiring youth.
The third piece...
One of the most important areas I witnessed was conflict. Conflict in discerning how to provide money from the budget to our camps. It was the first time I witnessed a debate involving the leaders of the UMC. Some of the debate made me want to pursue a career inside the church and some of the debate made me think I was more suited for extension ministries. Of course, my future does not rest solely on the opinions and spoken words of others. If anything it solidified my opinion that if the church plans on existing and being affective it must set its sights on being inclusive in every sense of the word. Inclusive for young people and even, dare I say it, for Ku Klux Klan members as well.
As I walked out of the Cornhusker with my head full of ideas and notions about the UMC, I boarded a plane taking me to Washington D.C. for a Bread for the World conference. A faith organization aimed at eliminating poverty and hunger.
My first step...
It is unrealistic to assume complete certainty when you enter the unknown or a foreign place. Ther is an existing language and way of handling matters, that is better not to judge but to simply experience or get a taste of. The beautiful thing when stepping onto any foreign terrain your basic senses are on full alert to anything to help you make sense of it. My mind lends itself to the way people comunicate, how they treat each other. I am constatnly searching for what it is that makes people find common ground. The conference proved itself to be very interesting in terms of communication between people. How does a church body make decisions? What does "all" mean? What are we communicating to our youth members? These are all valid questions that find their way into my heart.
However, what I'll take away from the conference were found in a collage of simple moments.
The first piece...
A sermon given by Rev. Charlotte Abram asking us, "What do we want on our tombstone?". On every tombstone their is a dash in between the year of birth and the year of death and it is up to us to decide, what will we fight for? What will we stand up for? She gave the example of a Ku Klux Klan rally, where protestors of the Ku Klux Klan started to beat a KKK member. A brave soul emerged from the crowd and threw herself on top of the KKK member, she was African American. When the woman was asked why she did it she said, "It was the right thing to do." What we choose to fight for and what we choose to stand up for are defining moments in our life but Rev. Charlotte said we dont need to worry about, "where to walk because God is leading our footsteps and all we have to do is take that first step".
The second piece...
A group of Youth got up to the microphone and made their requets known for a more inclusive church. As a collective body of young people some of the requests were more modern music, an ability to serve on committees so their thoughts and ideas are made readily known to church elders. Their final pronouncement was, "we are not the future of the church, we are the church". Its so clear that there needs to be a stronger presence of youth, ages 18-35, in our church families and communities. It was inspiring to meet so many people working towards this but also to see the long road ahead if we want to get anything accomplished in inspiring youth.
The third piece...
One of the most important areas I witnessed was conflict. Conflict in discerning how to provide money from the budget to our camps. It was the first time I witnessed a debate involving the leaders of the UMC. Some of the debate made me want to pursue a career inside the church and some of the debate made me think I was more suited for extension ministries. Of course, my future does not rest solely on the opinions and spoken words of others. If anything it solidified my opinion that if the church plans on existing and being affective it must set its sights on being inclusive in every sense of the word. Inclusive for young people and even, dare I say it, for Ku Klux Klan members as well.
As I walked out of the Cornhusker with my head full of ideas and notions about the UMC, I boarded a plane taking me to Washington D.C. for a Bread for the World conference. A faith organization aimed at eliminating poverty and hunger.
Monday, June 8, 2009
First days as a summer intern
Hello and Good Tidings to all,
I have not wandered very far, actually a hop, skip and a 45 minute drive to Omaha. A city that deserves some exploring due to its diversity and communities but before I wander too far into pontificating on the world around me, some background information may be helpful.
I am an intern with Reverend Stephanie Alschwede where she is a pastor at Dietz Memorial United Methodist Church. I am also working one day a week at the Big Garden (www.gardenbig.org) and the Blue Flamingo Thrift Store (www.blueflamingo.org) both non profits the labor and care of the amazing people here in Omaha. These non-profits are centered around aspects of social justice and are teaching agents of breaking down barriers within comunities and individuals. I struggle to find the words to describe both of these organizations for they are so progressive and innovative, I feel as if I am still learning about how these non profits function and benefit everyone involved.
The other aspect of this internship is the start of my discernment process. Where I am deciding what calls me to Seminary. Sort of a summer think tank, if you want to use that metaphor, for discovering my spiritual gifts. I will be interviewing women in the United Methodist Church about their own faith journey, as a way to strengthen and become more creative about my own role in Seminary and my walk with God.
This last week was an amazing crash course into the inner workings of a non-profit, rethinking my role within seminary and meeting people with such a passion for what they do. Throughout the summer I want to take the time to reflect, one way being through this blog which I hope provides a connection with congregation members at FUMC. You are able to post comments so feel free to let me know your thoughts.
This week I am headed to YAC and then Washington DC for a Bread for the World conference. More updates to come for sure...
take care,
e
I have not wandered very far, actually a hop, skip and a 45 minute drive to Omaha. A city that deserves some exploring due to its diversity and communities but before I wander too far into pontificating on the world around me, some background information may be helpful.
I am an intern with Reverend Stephanie Alschwede where she is a pastor at Dietz Memorial United Methodist Church. I am also working one day a week at the Big Garden (www.gardenbig.org) and the Blue Flamingo Thrift Store (www.blueflamingo.org) both non profits the labor and care of the amazing people here in Omaha. These non-profits are centered around aspects of social justice and are teaching agents of breaking down barriers within comunities and individuals. I struggle to find the words to describe both of these organizations for they are so progressive and innovative, I feel as if I am still learning about how these non profits function and benefit everyone involved.
The other aspect of this internship is the start of my discernment process. Where I am deciding what calls me to Seminary. Sort of a summer think tank, if you want to use that metaphor, for discovering my spiritual gifts. I will be interviewing women in the United Methodist Church about their own faith journey, as a way to strengthen and become more creative about my own role in Seminary and my walk with God.
This last week was an amazing crash course into the inner workings of a non-profit, rethinking my role within seminary and meeting people with such a passion for what they do. Throughout the summer I want to take the time to reflect, one way being through this blog which I hope provides a connection with congregation members at FUMC. You are able to post comments so feel free to let me know your thoughts.
This week I am headed to YAC and then Washington DC for a Bread for the World conference. More updates to come for sure...
take care,
e
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