Archive for April 20th, 2009

I haven’t done one of these in awhile because, frankly, I’ve grown tired of them. But I figured I’ll do them ever-so-often to keep everyone updated.

Recent Highlights:

1. This weekend I was privileged to speak at a high school retreat for two youth groups out of West Chester, PA – Westminster Presbyterian Church and West Chester UMC. Greg (WPC) and Cory (WCUMC) are wonderful youth pastors, and some of the best I’ve ever seen in action. They know their kids well, and it was refreshing for me to see that.

I spoke on what it means to be in community with one another. The kids responded well.

I think the best thing about the weekend was a time of sharing when two students self-proclaimed “not religious” said that because of the weekend and friendships there that they were going to try out Christianity some more. That’s cool. I’m not one to count kids raising their hands to accept Jesus, which is great, but I love seeing when relationships and Christianity in-action turns people to Jesus. Somehow, I think Jesus is proud of those times.

1. Giselle is nailing down a few words. It’s still baby talk, but she has words that are synonymous with mom, dad, gi-gi (Amanda’s mom), pop-pop, baseball (yes!), bottle, and more. It’s great.

Also, she should be taking off for the races any time soon. She’s taken a few steps, but not enough for us to say, “She walked.”

1. We had Giselle dedicated on April 5, a “dry baptism” if you will. It was wonderful. Friends and family were there, and the congregation at The Well was very loving.

Job update: I began working at Starbucks (in Feasterville) about two weeks ago, and I’ve been really enjoying it. I’ve contacted a few more churches about youth positions, and some have expressed interest so we’ll see what happens.

Seminary update: Beginning a new class tomorrow (Tuesday) called “Jesus and His Message.” It should be good, even though there are no N.T. Wright books on the reading list, which leads me to…

Disappointed by:

1. no N.T. Wright books on the reading list for my seminary class on Jesus – I know! Ridiculous, right (or should I say “Wright”?)? Oh, well.
2. Harry Kalas’ passing. I liked what one person said: “If God had a voice, it would sound like Harry Kalas.” I think that sounds about right.

Been pleased by: The Well. It’s the church Amanda and I’ve been going to. We’ve been feeling really accepted by them, and I feel it would pain me if we leave. The thing is, they treat us with the utmost respect and love. They’ve been kind and gentle with Giselle. They reach out to the community. They are ecumenical. They are missional. They take communion every Sunday. The only thing better would be if N.T. Wright or Rob Bell attended. Otherwise, it’s been awesome!

Looking forward to:

1. Giselle’s 1^st birthday is tomorrow! It’s kinda bittersweet. We’re excited, but what happened to my newborn child?
2. Summer

        3.  Going to a Phillies’ game