I know I am a nerd, but I have been watching, intermittently, the live stream from Jurisdictional Conference. Any thoughts thus far?
I have one. I just heard Dr. Randy Maddox give his speech on "The United Methodist Way." It was phenomenal (but I am biased being a Dukie). In the speech, he talked about Wesley's distinctive use of the Holy Spirit and how it is something trained in the lives of Christians, especially those who call themselves Methodists. It is something formed, not something cheap, and something which not only gives gifts and produces fruits of the spirit, but can be a true indwelling and presence. Perhaps the least understood person of the Trinity, it was a great speech on the work and understanding and potential for grace within the United Methodist church. Would anyone be interested in the transcript if I could get it?
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Update from Annual Conference
Sorry this is so late getting out. I am still trying to find my rhythm after two annual conference sessions. I thought the things we talked about at the meeting during annual conference were beneficial. More than anything, it was a great opportunity for us to get to know one another and share some concerns and joys with being young clergy, not just in the South Georgia Annual Conference, but in the United Methodist Church.
We talked about ways in which we could help identify college age people who might be interested in the ministry or seminary. Michael and CJ, both involved in campus ministry, have a pulse on those who might be serving. I think I remember saying that between the two of them, they knew more than 10 people from their ministries in or interested in seminary. One way we could support these folks is to visit them, write them notes, and send encouragement for them and their spouse when applicable.
We talked about a retreat of sorts. The trick, while not necessary it would be beneficial, would be to find some grant money for this. I am going to work on a proposal for the St. Mary's Foundation. Any other ideas would be great.
As we move forward, I know I may have left some things out. If you have ideas, post them here or send them to me in email. I have an email list form the Smith's that I will try to send out in the next couple of days, to try and get more people on board.
Thanks to all who came to the meeting, and all those who are interested as we move forward.
Grace and Peace,
G. Thomas Martin
We talked about ways in which we could help identify college age people who might be interested in the ministry or seminary. Michael and CJ, both involved in campus ministry, have a pulse on those who might be serving. I think I remember saying that between the two of them, they knew more than 10 people from their ministries in or interested in seminary. One way we could support these folks is to visit them, write them notes, and send encouragement for them and their spouse when applicable.
We talked about a retreat of sorts. The trick, while not necessary it would be beneficial, would be to find some grant money for this. I am going to work on a proposal for the St. Mary's Foundation. Any other ideas would be great.
As we move forward, I know I may have left some things out. If you have ideas, post them here or send them to me in email. I have an email list form the Smith's that I will try to send out in the next couple of days, to try and get more people on board.
Thanks to all who came to the meeting, and all those who are interested as we move forward.
Grace and Peace,
G. Thomas Martin
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
My bags are packed...
What is some of the best/worst advice you have ever received regarding a move?
What has worked well? What have been lessons learned?
What are some hopes and fears for those who prepare to transition?
What has worked well? What have been lessons learned?
What are some hopes and fears for those who prepare to transition?
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
What is this?
So what is the Young Clergy Initiative? What is it not? Hopefully we will continue to discern the direction for this group as we continue to grow, but I would like to make some suggestions.
What this is:
This is a forum/community/network for all South Georgia young clergy. Whether local pastor, licensed local pastor, provisional elder, elder in full connection, provisional deacon, or serving a United Methodist ministry of South Georgia, this is a place for you. It serves to help proof-read material, share ministry insights and experiences, and provide a network of support for younger clergy and their spouses as we all learn to serve together. It is a place of networking and support for young clergy with connection to the South Georgia Annual Conference.
What this is not:
Well, technically, since this is blog website, this is no real place with a pinpoint location. So think of this as an online community. This is not a place for complaining without action. This is not a place for gossip or slander. This is not a place where you can get information and email to send *spam.* This is not to turn into a group that focuses on itself. Instead, we are focusing on the ministerial task before us.
So, if this is something that you would like to be a part of, simply email Thomas your email address, bookmark and sign up to post on this blog, and join the growing community of young clergy.
What this is:
This is a forum/community/network for all South Georgia young clergy. Whether local pastor, licensed local pastor, provisional elder, elder in full connection, provisional deacon, or serving a United Methodist ministry of South Georgia, this is a place for you. It serves to help proof-read material, share ministry insights and experiences, and provide a network of support for younger clergy and their spouses as we all learn to serve together. It is a place of networking and support for young clergy with connection to the South Georgia Annual Conference.
What this is not:
Well, technically, since this is blog website, this is no real place with a pinpoint location. So think of this as an online community. This is not a place for complaining without action. This is not a place for gossip or slander. This is not a place where you can get information and email to send *spam.* This is not to turn into a group that focuses on itself. Instead, we are focusing on the ministerial task before us.
So, if this is something that you would like to be a part of, simply email Thomas your email address, bookmark and sign up to post on this blog, and join the growing community of young clergy.
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