A word from the other side

hey all you pastor-types with guarenteed jobs (why did I not want that? - oh yea now I remember) You all sound super busy.....Wonderful, wonderful. Congrats Brenda on the J_O_B. and thanks for taking care of Timmy and ministering to him - you have always been so good at that.

In the news: Rebecca and Steve Trefz are busy in SD with their 2 charges and love there new parsonage - big, roomy, lots of land, love to have visitors. Laura Ebner is engaged - happened over Labor Day - wedding date set to be in January 2006. Still working out the details. She is living and working in upper MA. Tammy Biltgen and I are attending a Deacons retreat this weekend in TN and then both have our meeting with the District Board on Ordained Ministry Monday Sept 26th for being passed on for probationary membership - prayers are requested.

I am working at my church on a contract basis part-time covering someones maternity leave. I have started a group for Young Adults which meets at my home (for no pay) where we are studying the progressive curriculm "Living the Questions". I still teach an adult Sunday school class (for no pay) at my church - we are studying Walter Brueggemann's book "Peace" - perfect for what is happening culturally - we are also looking at the book "War Is a Force That Gives Us Meaning" by Chris Hedges - another great book for our times. I am continuing in the Theological Study group East which meets every-other-month - this month we are studying William Blakes Songs of Innocence and Songs of Experience. I continue to talk with North Central College about running a small group for them (for pay) either in the winter or spring. I have applied for a part-time Christian Ed position at a small progressive church in the area and am talking to Aurora Univ. about teaching and other opportunities to work there (both for pay).

In the meantime - my family and I went on a late vacay to AZ - where I was able to study up for the GRE. I continue to pursue PhD plans, but may not make the cut off for Dec. at this rate. However, if I were to get a J-O-B at this progressive church and AU - I'd consider postponing PhD - my youngest is applying to colleges (she graduates this June) and my oldest has moved to Champaign-Urbana to work and live by her friends and discoverd the little university there and is applying to the college of fine arts for January admission. My husband would appreciate my financial contribution if we have 2 in college I am sure. Unless I can get a great scholarship offer for PhD. So those are all things I'd appreciate you all holding in your prayers.

Happy ordination to you all and congratualtions as you all move in the glory of God - Alleluia! e