[Friends, here is the report of the pastor, submitted on November 19, 2008]
PASTOR’S REPORT TO THE ADMINISTRATIVE COUNCIL
The Advent/Christmas season is approaching quickly; it’s just weeks away. Advent is my favorite season of the church year. I like the quiet, reflective (penitential, even) seasons of Advent and Lent. I’m hoping that the upcoming season will be meaningful for us all.
I’ve got my hands full doing the required paperwork to become a provisional elder. There are papers to write and many, many forms to fill out. Please keep me in your prayers as I try to find the time I need to get it all completed (the final deadline for the most time-consuming parts is February 1, 2009). If I am successful, I’ll be part of the first class of provisional elders under the 2008 Book of Discipline. That will impact some of our scheduling in the years to come.
Over the past few months, our church—like much of the world—has been anxious. Yet in this crisis of confidence, I have kept my eyes open for signs of new life. Great things are happening, but we must remember that all things take time. Though some may view it as ancient history, we are still suffering from the wounds of the recent past. At the same time, healing has begun, but healing takes time as well.
What I try to remember is that all of these things are continually being lived out in every congregation. There are ups and downs, obvious successes and disasters, and quiet, unobserved moments of hurting and healing. In the midst of it all, we must keep our eyes on the Christ . We must remember who we are called to be as the family of God and be true to that calling.
I remain confident and hopeful about God’s family at Arkport United Methodist Church!
In Christ’s Service…
Michael A. Smith, Pastor
