Today, Wednesday the 16th, while I continue to be available via phone/email, I do it not at church but in the waiting room while my husband has shoulder surgery (lacroscopic, bone spur removal, thankfully less painful than repair/replacement). I know all shall be well; nonetheless, prayers for his healing and our patience are greatly appreciated.

We all experience patient-hood differently and navigate life in ways as diverse as our temperaments and personalities. I tend to like to be left alone when I'm not feeling well and reach out when I do want/need help. Because that's my tendency, I think others feel the same way, which we know is faulty thinking! 

As your priest (pastor, preacher, and teacher), it is helpful for me to know what YOU prefer. As much faith as I have in God--Father, Son, and Holy Spirit--I do not pick up on every nudge to reach out and check in on you, and I won't know what you're experiencing--the joyful and the difficult--unless you tell me. I want to know how you're doing, and I do want to see you more often than not. We all lead busy lives, but God gives us enough time to do what we need to do. I may not be able to answer the phone/reply right away, but I will get back to you!

What we need are relationships that nurture our faith, encourage love, and expand our hope. I am one point in your network of such relationships, and I hope that when you look around at church, you see others who surround and nurture you, too.