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