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Dear Covenant Family,
Last week I had the privilege of attending a CREDO conference sponsored by the
The Board of Pensions of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A). CREDO’s purpose is to replenish ministers’ spirits and guide them in rediscovering the passion that first animated their calls, through sharing knowledge, experience, and compassion, and reflecting prayerfully on their spiritual, physical, financial, and vocational well-being.
I shared the journey with 29 other “mid-career” pastors who traveled from various parts of the country for this seven-day retreat in the North Carolina mountains.
On the day we arrived I took a walk with a new friend and together we decided to take kayaks out on Lake Logan. Both of us are experienced kayakers, but these boats were unusually small and later we determined that they were likely for the junior summer campers. In the process of extracting myself from the tiny boat after our paddle, I accidently slipped into the water, soaking my clothing and hiking boots in the process. As it turned out, we were too busy with seminars the first few days to do much hiking anyway. Later in the week, I used our free time to hike high up on the mountain ridge, where you can always find the best view.
CREDO is Latin for “I believe” but it best translates as: “I have given my heart to…” Through structured times of plenary, workshop, small group interactions, worship, and one-on-one conversations we each considered our calling, God’s faithfulness, and additional steps toward holistic health we could be taking. My call to ministry, and to Covenant in particular, was confirmed, and I continue to feel blessed beyond measure to be your pastor.
We all need a chance to get up on the mountaintop spiritually to view where we have come from and where we are going. To whom and to what have we given our heart? What is our personal credo?
This Sunday in worship we will hear the story of Jesus’ transfiguration on the mountaintop, with his disciples. A few days later, we enter the wilderness for the forty days of Lent, marking our foreheads with the ashes of repentance. Whatever other spiritual practices you might be doing this year, I hope you will commit to join us in worship throughout Lent as we explore what it means to follow in the way of Jesus.
On the road with you,
Pastor Jessie
[email protected]
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