circle of friends

Door County

2006-09-05T19:27:00.001-07:00

I hope I've successfully uploaded pictures from our trip to Door County last week. Thanks again to our hostess Jill. For those that didn't make it this year - (Cindy and Maiko that means you!) We're looking forward to next year's annual trip.

As for the rest of you absent bloggers - Cindy, Jill, Vickie - let's hear from you too! And if you haven't added lately, update us! 'cuz I still feel like I'm talking to myself.

hugs and prayers
Brenda

Door County

2006-09-05T19:27:00.000-07:00

answered prayer

2006-09-05T19:20:00.000-07:00

Hi!

Great news! The angiogram came out very well - measurements were all in normal ranges which rules out pulmonary hypertension. This is a very very good thing! Still have a few other things to look at but nothing as concerning. Thanks for your thoughts and prayers.

Did you notice our friend Will Abbott has found us and made a comment? Good to hear from you Will - hope all is well with you.

B

prayer request

2006-08-23T06:03:00.000-07:00

Hello friends . . . is anybody out there? This is a great way for us to stay in touch with one another -- please take a moment to send a post let us know what's going on in your life and keep this circle going.

Anyway . . . to let you know what's going on with me I'd like to ask for your prayers. I have a new health challenge (okay, just when is enough enough?) I have recently been diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension and am scheduled for a angiogram on Friday. They say it's fairly routine and they don't expect to find any surprises the purpose of this angiogram is to take base line measurements of the pressures in the lungs and heart so that they can titrate the medication properly and so they can follow the progression of the disease. In simple terms the right ventricle of my heart is enlarged and is not pumping oxygen into the lungs as well as it should.

I'm planning to see most of you next week at Jill's lake house for our R&R with the girls as we celebrate Candy's upcoming wedding - so I'm focusing on smooth sailing Friday and heading right to our time together next week.

I spoke with Nancy Twichell yesterday and she sends her best to everyone.

hugs and prayers to all,
Brenda

Hi Everyone

2006-07-27T09:25:00.000-07:00

OK - it took me awhile to remember how to do a post here, but I think I've finally got it! Hope everyone is doing well, and thanks to Brenda for getting this going again. The summer has been busy, and has passed quickly -- right now I'm wondering how it was that I had time for school! I am presently still working in nursing, but will be looking for a job in a more ministry-related setting this fall, after the next big event in my life -- my wedding on October 28th. I am looking forward to taking on the role of a pastor's wife and seeking out new areas of ministry. My older son Brad is director of youth ministries at our home town church in Middlebury, and my younger son Ben and his wife are both working and attending school. Brad's fiancee Brittney is leaving in August to spend a year in China teaching English, so they have postponed their wedding til next year. My mom has moved into a senior living community in Middlebury, and is doing very well (for those of you who might not know, my dad passed away unexpectedly in November). Everyone is healthy, and I feel very blessed. Byron's church in Hammond is working at starting some new ministries for children as well as a new Hispanic ministry. Looking forward to catching up with everyone here on the blog!

Blessings,
Candy

2006-07-25T19:29:00.000-07:00

Hi all!

I've heard from Denita and Candy and hope to see a entry from them soon! All is well with me. I rarely get to preach (but I do get to do funerals) and I had the opportunity to do pulpit supply last Sunday and I'll preach again this Sunday for the evening Vesper service at The Moorings where I did my first field ed, I'm looking forward to it. I do get there fairly often in my role as hospice chaplain but not usually in the independent living area.

Most of you know I had shoulder surgery in May - my physical therapist says I now have ful range of motion back! Now it's just a matter of strengthening exercises. I'll be happy when I won't have PT 3 times a week anymore! I'm not sure how soon that will be, not soon enough for me!

Last week Dave & Missy were in New Hampshire on the church Mission Trip, they came back exhausted and exilarated at the same time!

Looking forward to hearing from you all soon!

2006-07-22T16:32:00.000-07:00

Hello, All! Thanks, Brenda, for kick starting the blog again. I am doing very well. Ministry is going very well at both churches, with some growth and some conflict, both necessary parts of ministry. We are really enjoying living in northern Michigan(lower peninsula). I've been bike riding the 2-tracks in the area for exercise and also going fishing every other Friday. I see Bill Chu at least every other month, as he is in my BOOM Commissioning mentoring group and we drive 100 miles each way together to get there. He and Julie have been good sounding boards for me. I meet monthly with 2 other pastors in a Lectionary group and that has been helpful and supportive. Paula begins working 4 days/week in August, rather than 5+, which will be a big blessing.
The summer has been outstanding here, but not much rain. What are other people doing for continuing education and for Sabbath time?
In Christ,
Tim

Hi from Holly

2006-07-20T23:09:00.000-07:00

Hey - I just noticed in comments under Denita's ordination that Holly found our blog and said "Hi" (ok apparently so did some less desireable folks - we'll just ignore them)

Holly if you check back - hi to you too!

Shall we try again?

2006-07-20T22:59:00.000-07:00

Hi folks!

It's been a looong while! Shall we try again to stay in touch via the blog? What's new with everyone? It was great to see some of you at graduation time. Wish I could have stayed longer. Things are great with hospice, it's sacred space and just exactly where God wants me to be. I meet with Ruth Duck next week Friday to go over my final revisions on my ordination paper and hopefully things will start moving again. I have come to realize that I really am a deadline kind of person. At GETS when something was due it was due. Out in the real world when they let me move at my own pace there is always a reason to procrastinate. Wish me luck in finishing my revisions for next week! Hopefully we can get together to celebrate my ordination before year end!

Hoping to hear from you all soon!

hugs and prayers,
Brenda

Denita's ordination

2005-10-10T21:07:00.000-07:00

Maiko and I went to Denita's ordination on Saturday and had a wonderful time! It was a powerful service! God is good all the time God is good!

Brenda

Denita's ordination

2005-10-06T20:08:00.000-07:00

Better late than never! the following is the e-vite information on Denita's ordination this Saturday. I understand Cindy and Jill are arriving Friday night, Maiko and I will not stay over night but will be there for the ordination.

God's peace,
Brenda

Host: Denita Williams
Location: Holiday Inn
500 Holiday Plaza, Matteson, IL View Map
When: Saturday, October 8, 12:30pm
Phone: 708-747-3500
Praise God from whom all blessings flow, If you see me shouting and getting my praise on because of what God has done in my life. Please, block the Holy Ghost busters and join me in praise.

I am humbled to think the King of Glory would select someone like me.

You are cordially invited to celebrate the blessings God had granted, I am grateful, for all the prayers provided on my behalf.

We will have an early dinner afterwards, approximatelly $15.00 dollars, Please let me know if you are going to have dinner as well.

Blessing and grace unto you.

Reverend Denita R. Williams

Greetings

2005-09-22T07:20:00.000-07:00

I am sooo happy that others are using the blog! I love it when I'm not talking to myself (although on occasion I've been known to have whole conversations with myself!)

Elizabeth - paying gig or not ~~ it sounds as if you too are VERY busy.

Tim - I don't have the details on Denita's ordination, but I'll call her later today and report back.

This is week 3 at hospice and I'm absolutely loving it - I did a funeral my 2nd week for a woman I had visited my 1st week. So I've really hit the ground running, but that's ok too.

Ruth and I went back to Wisc a couple of week-ends ago for Jill's installation at her Clintonville church, I was amazed at the difference just a couple of weeks made, on our way there the leaves had already begun to change colors and it was just beautiful. We went there and back in one day so on the return trip it was too dark to enjoy the scenery! Maiko - the buffalo herd was still there, I almost stopped to take a picture for you.

The new job doesn't allow me to take time to visit Tim, I did send him a letter a few days ago so far there is no news to report. I'm thinking he should have a date set for the beginning of his trial, I'll share the news when I get it so that we can be in prayer on that date. I'm still feeling very conflicted about the whole thing but I'm confident that prayers are answered and I'm relying on God's will regardless of my personal inner conflicts...

I spoke with John G a few weeks back and he's loving his little urban church in Ohio and it's clear that he is exactly where God wants him to be.

Wishing you all God's peace.

hugs and prayers,
Brenda

A word from the other side

2005-09-20T12:57:00.000-07:00

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

Denita's Ordination Details?

2005-09-19T07:45:00.000-07:00

Does anyone know the particular details about Denita's Ordination Service?

I believe it is October 8th.
Where? When?

Tim

So Brenda Doesn't feel bad

2005-09-17T17:50:00.000-07:00

Hi guys! It's been a busy summer and it's already looking to be a busy fall. I'm still trying to get into some kind of rhythm, but maybe no rhythm is the rhythm.

Brenda, how great that you got your job!! I really had no doubts.
I'm planning on going to Denita's ordination, but we're having a special meeting of our Annual Conference that day, so I'm hoping to be able to get out in time to get to Chicago. I'm looking forward to seeing all of you that can come, especially since I missed Jill's shindig!

I miss sitting around talking to all of you and getting all those great sermon ideas.
Hope you all are doing well. Peace and Blessings!
Vickie

creating a post

2005-09-17T14:07:00.000-07:00

If you are having trouble adding a post, try this: go to: http://getstogether.blogspot.com in the lower left corner is the blog logo that reads i power blog or something close to that. Click on the logo and you'll be at the sign in page, if you enter your name and password the next page lists the plog and the next step is to click on the round green icon under "create a post" that should allow your comments to appear on the main page. final step is to hit "publish post"

Hope this helps and makes sense.

Brenda

happy dance!

2005-09-01T20:03:00.000-07:00

I'm doing the happy dance! I got the job with hospice! Only one more hurdle - I've got to take a physical. I hate when I have to list all the med's I take 'cuz there are so many!

I hope in the next few days to post all the pictures from Jill's ordination and our trip to Door County! It was wonderful to be among GETS friends again!

Next ordination is Denita's on October 8th!

Love to all!

a side note: would someone else please add a post so I don't feel like I'm talking to myself!

As promised. . .

2005-08-22T14:24:00.000-07:00

The address for Tim is:
Timothy Rademacher
c/o Iroquois County Jail
550 South 10th
Watseka, Illinois 60970

If anyone is reading these posts, please hold him in prayer tomorrow.

happy thoughts:

I also ask your prayers - I have an interview for a full time hospice position.

Sunday is Jill's ordination - who else is attending? Vickie - Candy - Cindy??? Maiko and I are driving together hope to see you there. Door County here we come!

hugs and prayers to all!
Brenda

Timmy update

2005-08-18T15:17:00.000-07:00

Hi folks! I only have a minute - I'm running at mach speed trying to get all the loose ends tied up before Jen leaves in the morning.

I did see Timmy yesterday (I really don't think we can call him Timmy anymore, he has aged quite a bit in the last 2 months). He is doing as well as can be expected I guess, it was a very strange experience, I had never been inside a jail before, it's all very stark and the noise just echoes off the walls, keys clanging, doors opening and closing, footsteps, but no human sounds, no voices, no radios, very strange and disconcerting. Tim says he feels safe in the place he is now - that wasn't the case before he was transferred. His faith is still strong and he says he is growing stronger and closer to God, he said the stuff from seminary that felt academic and aloof is now making much more sense. We had a good conversation, he had some interesting insights into himself, we prayed together and we cried together. There is still much uncertainty and many losses to grieve. No date set yet for his trial - he expects it to be in about 2 months. He does have a court date on 8/23 and 9/1 but they are just preliminary things that lead to the trial, I'm sure he would appreciate you holding him in prayer on those dates. He asks for prayers and mail, I'll double check the address and include it in my next post. In the meantime feel free to call me. My home number is 847 705 5031 my cell is 847 293 6827.

God's peace,
Brena

2005-08-16T13:22:00.000-07:00

Yikes! I typed a whole new post and then I lost it! Ah well, I'll try again!

I think this is a great way for us to stay in touch, it's been great hearing from you all!

I have to agree with Vickie And Tim - it is soooo strange not to be gearing up for the fall semester with Jenni and Missy. Strange but good - although I do miss seeing you all! Jen goes back to school on Friday and Missy starts her junior year in high school next Tuesday.

This summer I've been summer/interim chaplain at the retirement community where I did my first field ed. I was disappointed not to get the full time position. I finish the end of August and the new chaplain begins after labor day.

I'm still in the job hunt - I've been offered (pending reference checks) a 8 week position at another retirement center filling in for a chaplain who is having hip replacement - this is good because it brings in some money and bad because the UCC doesn't ordain until you have a job. The hospice I worked at last year has one full time and one part time position open, I've sent my resume and hope to interview soon. The coordinator returns from vacation tomorrow. I hope to hear soon so that the 8 week folks will have time to find someone else, I don't want to string them along, but I don't want to count my chickens before they hatch - soooo we will see, what will be will be.

I have received permission to visit Timmy R tomorrow, I'm not sure who knows what, but our friend has run into some trouble since graduation and is in need of prayer. He is in jail awaiting trail, bond is set too high for anyone he knows to post ($250,000). I'm not at all sure what to expect, or what shape he'll be in, I don't know what I'll say to him, I just know it's important to reach out to him.

Wishing you all God's peace.

Brenda

GETS Circle of Friends

2005-08-12T18:06:00.000-07:00

Hello All,

This is a great idea. I think that if everyone creates a new POST then each person will have a separate line. I'll take the first shot at it and see what happens.
Ministry is going well. Two churches and back in Northern Michigan.
I had 3 funerals in the 1st 4 weeks - All Native American. God's grace has been overwhelming. Vickie, I have had the same feeling about not going back to G-ETS.
I will miss Jill's ordination as it is too far from here - 5+ hours.
We are beginning to feel like this is "home" again, moving always seems stressful.
It is hard adjusting to the new rythm of ministry - there aren't "normal" weeks and allocating time for sermon preparation has been difficult. I would be interested in knowing how others structure their weeks - if structure is the right word. I have office hours on Tues at Horton Bay UMC and Thurs. at Greensky Hill Indian Mission UMC, with Wed for visitation and Monday for Sermon Prep. Friday is supposed to be my Sabbath day but that part has not gone as planned. I find I really need two or more smaller time slots for sermon prep but I haven't implemented that yet.

In Christ,
Tim

GETS Circle of Friends

2005-07-15T13:52:00.000-07:00

Hi! I hope this works! I've set up a blog for each of us to use to stay in touch. Feel free to invite others to join our group. I'd love to hear all about the new appointments of my Methodist friends as well as the progress of other folks as well.

Happy news - Jill's ordination date is set for 6:30pm, August 28th in Clintonville, Wisconsin.

I'm leaving tomorrow at the crack of dawn for North Carolina where we will be joined by my dad & all his kids and grandkids - 18 under one roof! I have visited the library in preparation for this trip and will gladly be reading books that are not text books, there will be no test and a highlighter simply isn't needed.

hugs and prayers to you all, hope to come back from vacation to find a blog full of entries! There should be a way to add images, etc. I just haven't quite figured it out yet! It would be great to see graduation pictures and new house/church pictures too!

Brenda