Dennis Camplin

Co-operative to Corporate

2006-08-08T11:12:00.000-06:00

This would work for me...

2006-06-18T07:44:00.000-06:00

Coffee & Christ for pastors who gather informally
By ADRIANA JANOVICH
YAKIMA HERALD-REPUBLIC

GORDON KING/Yakima Herald-Republic

A joke from another pastor draws a laugh from Frank Maycock of Westminster Presbyterian Church, Gordy Byrd of Shiloh Christian Center and Dan Keller of Calvary Church of Yakima. The pastors group gathers weekly at the Starbucks coffeeshop at Summitview and 56th avenues in Yakima. They've dubbed the group The Pastors Who Drink Coffee. The gathering "is mental health Thursday when we get sane again," said Joe Hite of Valley Fellowship.

The coffee shop is no place for vestments. No robes, sport coats or neckties here.

At the Starbucks at 56th and Summitview avenues each week, pastors wear khakis and jeans, shorts, sandals and tennis shoes. They let loose over lattés, laugh about jokes they wouldn't tell in church, and solve the world's problems.

Their cups runneth over.

The Pastors Who Drink Coffee — an officially unofficial social and support group for local church leaders of various denominations — gather every Thursday at 9 a.m. For coffee and Christian conversation, laughs and spiritual sustenance.

End of the Road...

2006-06-17T12:43:00.000-06:00

We live at the end of the road! At least the road goes into the lake right beside our home.

A few weeks back there was an incident where someone drove into the lake as if there was no end to the road. He made it about 75 feet and his vehicle was submerged except for about a foot below the roof. Needless to say, he did not pay attention to the checkderboard sign at the side of the road.

This week, the Municipality has planted another sign right in the centre of the road. I'll let you know when this sign fails to do the job!

Let me introduce you to...

2006-05-24T22:22:00.000-06:00

John Connor Camplin!

As I mentioned earlier John was born early on May 24th. John is our 8th grandson and 11th grandchild.

A New Grandson!

2006-05-24T09:17:00.000-06:00

Early this morning we had a new grandson join the family! This young lad is the third son for James and Maura. He weighed in at 8 lb 13 oz -- so he is off to a good start.

James and Maura have not announced a name -- but that will come soon.

There is nothing like a new grandson to get me blogging again!

This one's for Randy...

2006-05-12T20:48:00.000-06:00

Randy, You are the only loyal fan I have left -- so you deserve a new post. Enjoy your stay at the lake. Will you still be here next week when I get back?

May the blessings of Easter victory be yours...

2006-04-16T08:16:00.000-06:00

Lakefront in Winter !

2006-03-04T08:31:00.000-06:00

It is so seldom that we get to spend time at our home at Arlington that we never know what to expect when we get there.

Yesterday I had a dental appointment in Strasbourg so we decided to spend overnight at the lake. This picture shows the latest accumulation of snowdrift in our front yard. It is neat the way the snow blows in from the lake and deposits itself in the front yard. Very seldom do I need to clean the path from the front door to where we park the car. However you can see that the snowblower was in to make that path a little wider.

We do appreciate the good service that Ted or Reuben give us in keeping the roadway and parking area clear of snow.

Basketball Weekend

2006-02-20T19:05:00.000-06:00

It was great to have the weekend free from responsibilities at the church so that we could connect with family. On this weekend we connected with Jennie and Brett and their kids -- in Moose Jaw as Cole was playing basketball with the Birch Hills team. We stayed at Days Inn, ate way too much food, took in three games and hung out and visited together. It was great!

It wouldn't be winter in Saskatchewan withou a cold snap...

2006-02-17T09:06:00.000-06:00

... and that's why I have this picture as the background on my computer screen! I feel warmer just looking at it.

This is one of my favorite pictures because it brings up all kinds of memories of camping with with some very special relatives in a spot that has been a family tradition.

When I get back to the Lake on the weekend I will do the next best thing and get a wood fire going in the fireplace.

Jordon Cooper completes appointment at Spiritwood

2006-02-13T14:37:00.000-06:00

Jordon Cooper has served as pastor of Lakeland Free Methodist Church in Spiritwood for more than a decade. During that time he has travelled from Saskatoon to Spiritwood on weekends and other days to serve the needs of pastoral leadership in that congregation.

During most of that time Jordon has been employed bi-vocationally in a number of other jobs in Saskatoon.

I express personal thanks to Jordon for his good work. I remember well the condition of the church at the time that Jordon began his work there. There have been lots of changes for the better, and no doubt, a few challenges as well.

I wish Jordon the very best in the ways that God leads him and Wendy in the future!

World Relief Sunday

2006-02-11T14:38:00.000-06:00

Tomorrow, we celebrate World Relief Sunday at the Weyburn Free Methodist Church. I am also using the opportunity to introduce the denomination's missions theme, "Expanding Kingdom Influence Together -- Developing an Ethos of Generosity."

This church is generous already -- but it is a great theme and we need to be reminded often.

The solution to being 'addicted to oil'...

2006-02-02T10:04:00.000-06:00

China is the world’s biggest producer of bicycles, 79 million units in 2004, of which 51 million were exported. Imports of Chinese bicycles into the EU attract dumping duties. The average unit price was only US$34.5. By contrast, the average unit price of Taiwan-made and Japanese-made bicycles last year was US$164.41 and US$150, respectively. (Source: China Bicycle Association, May 2005).

The People’s Republic of China produces 55-60percent of the world’s bicycles. India produces 11 percent. 86 percent of the bicycles sold in the US are imports from China.

The Chinese domestic market for bicycles is about 22-25 million per year, down from a peak of 40 million just a few years ago. Thanks to government policies of promoting cars, and discouraging cycling, cycle use in China is plummeting, down to 20 percernt of all trips, compared to 33 percent in 1995. The Chinese bicycle industry employs 150 000 people and geneates $1bn a year in foreign exchange earnings. Most of the domestic Chinese bikes are produced by state-owned companies, who wouldn’t dare criticise the official policy to discourage urban cycle use. The Chinese Bicycle Association (CBA) is a branch of China Light Industrial, a government minstry, and its leaders toe the party line, viewing the removal of bikes lanes as a necessary measure for accommodating increasing car use. However, there’s one glimmer of hope: the Olympic village being built for the 2008 Beijing Games is to be criss-crossed by cyclepaths (Source: BikeEurope, February 2003)

If I was at the Lake today...

2006-02-01T15:04:00.000-06:00

... I would get my chainsaw out and cut a little wood for the fireplace.

Finally, here in Weyburn, the sun is shining and the temperature continues to stay mild. As I look out of my office window, the thought of cutting wood at Arlington is appealing. Of course, at Arlington there is much more snow, likely more wind, and maybe if I was there the thought of cutting wood would not even enter my mind!

Icebiking...

2006-01-31T13:01:00.000-06:00

Whenever I get a chance I like to ride my bike in winter. So far this has been a good year for that -- when I'm at the lake. This picture was taken a year ago one day when I was trying to entertain one of the grandsons.

However, icebiking is a sport that is growing in interest and participation.

A Fascinating Book...

2006-01-26T11:35:00.000-06:00

I am reading a fascinating story of Goerge Meegan who completed an epic walk from Tierra Del Fuego, South America to Barrow, Alaska; 19,019 miles in 2,425 days from 1977 to 1983.

He now lives in both England and Japan with his wife, Yoshiko, and their two children. He has served as a seaman in the British Merchant Marine and is a
Fellow of the Royal Geographic Society. Currently, Meegan is a lecturer at
the Japanese National Maritime University, Kobe, Japan.

The story of this epic transverse of the Americas on foot is chronicled in his book, The Longest Walk.* This is George Meegan's very personal account of the challenges, the hardships, and the vast sweep of peoples he encountered as he walked across the Americas.

My Home Town...

2006-01-25T14:56:00.000-06:00

CLARKSBURG - The first inhabitants of Clarksburg were the Marsh family of Grape Grange on the south east side of the village. William Marsh built his first home there in the 1850s. He was a farmer, merchant, and the founder of Clarksburg. The main street carries his name. The village was named after the second resident, William Clark, who operated a woolen mill on the river. Sometime around 1890, a bicycle rim factory operated in Clarksburg, shipping products across Canada and to several European countries. A bicycle club in Thornbury and Clarksburg grew to several hundred members around that time. Clarksburg also had a grain mill, woolen mill, armory, curling rink and hotel. Fires claimed most of the outstanding buildings in the early 1900s.

Election Day

2006-01-23T08:53:00.000-06:00

Today is the day that Canadians get to elect its government leaders. We are fortunate to have the opportunity of freedom in this matter.

As I see it -- today we get the chance to support local candidates, a political party, or a national leader. Of course all of these are connected and it is impossile to isolate any one from the other, but I do wonder which is the prime motivator for most voters. For me, I choose the leader that I believe will be the best Prime Minister and do the local thing accordingly.

I heard on the news this morning that January 23 is considered the most depressing day of the year. And that's the day we get to go and vote!

Anyway, each of us has a right and responsibility to vote.

I'll Use This One on Sunday...

2006-01-20T14:43:00.000-06:00

I received this image from a friend a few days ago. It will fit right into the PowerPoint for my sermon this Sunday. The caption that came with the picture is..."The Proper Way to Weigh Yourself."

I think I will leave it for you to figure out how it fits ... but I am talking about the freedom of repentance. The main question of the sermon is -- "What would you do if you learned that what you have been doing continues to get you into trouble or does not deliver the outcomes that you desire?"

A New Buzzword … Organic

2006-01-15T16:44:00.000-06:00

I love being in church meetings with younger leaders. (At my age, that happens most of the time!)

One of the advantages of getting older is that you become more and more aware of all that there is yet to learn. And I think that’s why I enjoy being among younger leaders – because I can learn so much from them.

At the meetings I attended this past week – Network Leaders from across this country – a buzzword that I noticed was the word ‘organic.”

Of course, the challenge is not just to understand terms. The challenge is to change patterns either of thinking or of behaviours in order to accommodate a new way to do things.

Take organic for instance.

I’m used to fairly structured planning and organizing. From that paradigm certain outcomes can be expected from proper corresponding intentions. It is a fairly linear way of thinking – but it usually kept things neat and tidy. It was a useful way to deal with problems one could take the chaos of problems and try to bring some order and sense out of them.

Now I’m living in a world where chaos is valued more than order. (Though I did notice in one of the presentations a recognition of a natural flow from risk to safety, from chaos to order, etc.)

I think the bottom line is that any development of ideas needs to move from creative ‘out-of-the-box’ thinking to some kind of harnessing of the idea to a productive stage. And or course, this implies we need people who can move the idea all along the process.

I like the organic buzzword! Now, if I could only understand it…

Network Leaders' Meeting

2006-01-09T16:11:00.000-06:00

I'm heading off tomorrow for Niagara Falls to attend a meeting of Network Leaders in our denomination. The main agenda is to evaluate the effectiveness of the networks that have been established for about ten years now.

It is relatively easy to identify the weaknesses in the system, but more difficult to re-design or "fix" the flaws. One of the challenges that we will have to wrestle with is the fact of Canadian geography and that we have churches of various sizes in very different contexts. Regional groupings do not necessarily bring together churches with similar challenges and opportunities.

And, of course, there are always those who feel isolated for whatever reason.

We have solid leadership in Bishop Keith and members of the National Leadership Team, and we have excellent Network Leaders and together, we will be able to do good evaluation and head in the right direction.

And Now, It's Your Turn, Emma! Happy Birthday!

2006-01-07T09:44:00.000-06:00

Here is Emma Enns who is nine today.

Emma is constantly making crafts -- and here she is peeking through some knitting that she has been doing since Christmas.

Emma, have a great Birthday!

Happy Birthday, Jayne...

2006-01-06T09:14:00.000-06:00

January is a popular birthday month for several members of our family.

Today is Jayne's day! Happy 12th Birthday, Jayne!

Jayne is our oldest granddaughter.

Happy Birthday, Lisa...

2006-01-05T16:03:00.000-06:00

Today is Lisa's birthday. Lisa was born in 1970 so you can do the arithmetic. Here she is with her youngest son Jonathon. Her older children are Anna, Daniel and Mark.

Have a great birthday, Lisa!

Sunshine again...

2006-01-04T16:41:00.000-06:00

It seems like forever since we have been able to enjoy a bright day with sunshine -- but today it happened. For the past two days it has been trying hard.

What a difference sunshine makes to one's outlook!

PLTF Announcement

2006-01-01T09:47:00.000-06:00

This mor ning in the service at Weyburn Free Methodist Church, Gwen Wright, chair of the Pastoral Leadership Task Force (PLTF) announced that Jason and Esther Johnson have been invited to come to Weyburn next weekend. This is an opportunity for leaders and the congregation to meet the candidate that is top priority for the Task Force. It is also an opportunity for the Johnsons to meet the congregation -- as each part is making final decisions that could very well lead to an upcoming appointment.

Jason is presently on staff at the Kamloops Free Methodist Church.

Jason's blog is found at www.comegetyours.blogspot.com

As 2005 Comes to an End...

2005-12-31T15:06:00.000-06:00

These days the news media tries to capture and review the big stories of this year past. And certainly this has been a year of tradegy and sudden death in many parts of the world. Earthquakes, Tsumani, Hurricanes, War -- Disaster after disaster! It is hard to imagine the pain and human suffering that these things have caused.

In our family there have been lots of challenges but lots of accomplishments.

- Wilda and I have spent most of the year in Weyburn as we have served the church in Intentional Interim leadership. It has been a good time with great progress through a transitional period. Tomorrow the name of the couple who are invited to visit January 7 - 8 will be announced.

- Dave and Lisa moved into a new and much larger home in order to accomodate the needs of their growing family.

- James and Maura are expecting! James also has been invited to be a partner in the Law firm when he works. Congratulations!

- Brett and Jennie are in an extremely busy time in their lives as they and their kids are involved in a lot of activities. Brett has just started a new job with the Health Region -- Executive Director of Mental Health and Addictions for the northeastern part of the province.

Looking back, for us, it has been a good year in our family. God's hand has been upon each of us -- even through the loss of a close brother (Wilda's brother, Glen.)

Up For the Challenge...

2005-12-30T16:49:00.000-06:00

Daniel and Ben have taken quite an interest in the game of chess. Here they are just beginning a new game.

Daniel is in Grade 1 and Ben is in Kindergarten but they are up to the challenge of the game.

Of course, I cannot leave out...

2005-12-29T18:55:00.000-06:00

...our three grandaughters!

Here are Emma, Anna and Jayne. Emma and Jayne are sisters, Jayne being the one who does not have a cousin her age. However they found ways to keep themselves entertained. For Jayne it was a good chance to do some shopping and cash in some of the money gifts or gift certificates that she received.

Seven grandsons

2005-12-29T18:42:00.000-06:00

Here are our seven grandsons who were together for Christmas celebrations in Brandon over the past few days.

On Tuesday evening the four oldest ones along with their fathers and grandfather attended a hockey game between Brandon Wheat Kings and Regina Pats. Ben and Joe live in Regina and so were cheering for the Pats. Daniel is an avid Wheat Kings fan. However, when James bought them each a horn -- there was lots of noise no matter who was scoring a goal or making a good play!

The Wheat Kings won the game 6 - 2.

Merry Christmas!

2005-12-25T09:38:00.000-06:00

Well, the day has arrived and what an awesome chance to say "Merry Christmas" to each person who stumbles across this blog.

Today, at Weyburn Free Methodist Church we have a 11:00 a.m. worship time -- which is intended to be a little shorter than normal. Last evening there was a full house for the Christmas Eve service. It is so good to see families together for the holiday.

This afternoon Wilda and I will drive over to Brandon to Dave and Lisa's. They are hosting the whole family for a Christmas celebration tomorrow. It will be great to see everyone and to be together again.

Trusting that your day is filled with joy and peace and that the reality of Christ coming to us will be your experience.

Merry Christmas!

An Intimite Moment with Mary and Joseph

2005-12-24T11:10:00.000-06:00

by Ken Gire

A scream from Mary knifes through the calm of the silent night.
Joseph returns, breathless, water sloshing from the wooden bucket. The top of the baby's head has already pushed its way into the world. Sweat pours from Mary's contorted face as Joseph, the most unlikely midwife in all Judea, rushed to her side.

The involuntary contractions are not enough, and Mary has to push with all her strength, almost as if God were refusing to come in the world without her help.
Joseph places a garment beneath her and with a final push and a long sigh, her labor is over.

The Messiah has arrived.

Elongated head from the constricting journey through the birth canal. Light skin, as the pigment would take days for even weeks to surface. Mucus in his ear and nostrils. Wet and slippery from the amniotic fluid. The son of the most High God umbilically tied to a lowly Jewish girl.

The baby chokes and coughs. Joseph instinctively turns him over and clears his throat

Then he cries.

Mary bares her breast and reaches for the shivering baby. She lays him on her chest and his helpless cries subside. His tiny head bobs around on the unfamiliar terrain. This will be the first thing the infant-king learns. Mary can feel his racing heartbeat as he gropes to nurse.

Deity nursing from a young maiden's breast. Could anything be more puzzling or more profound?

Getting ready for Christmas...

2005-12-23T11:34:00.000-06:00

For some reason I have been very unmotivated at work this week. It is probably a bit of a wind-down from the pace of the past several weeks -- but it is Christmas.

Here at Weyburn Free Methodist we are going against the trends and having services both on Saturday evening and Sunday morning -- only one each time!

I've read a lot of the banter about the churches that cancel the Sunday services so that families can be together. I just think we can offer options on both days -- and let people close which fits best into their family plans.

Following the Sunday service Wilda and I will drive over to Brandon to begin a little stretch of time with our family. We will all be together on Monday and Tuesday.

Seniors and Church Leadership

2005-12-22T09:44:00.000-06:00

A recent posting on our denomination's listserve for pastors, written by a retired pastor, was very critical of a lot of things that define who we are as a movement. In a 'not too subtle way' this man was longing for the good old days with its structures, conferences and methods of ministry.

This same brother has engaged in these same challenges with some of the emerging leaders over and over again. His tone is critical and condescending.

While I am a little younger that the man I am writing about -- I too am a senior in the church. (I have my Saskatchewan pin to prove it!) I recognize that another difference is that I am still actively involved in the leadership of a local church.

As I read the listserve exchanges I often think -- I hope I never get bitter and angry like that. I hope I can be open to change and changes that need to happen in the dynamic of anything that is alive and growing. I hope I can empower new leaders to lead their way.

This is my attitude. I will give 100% during my time of opportunity -- and then I will pass the leadership privilege over to those who are coming into the responsibility of leadership.

Here is the test. I am almost at that point. On January 7 - 8, 2006 a couple selected by a very wonderful Pastoral Leadership Task Force will be in Weyburn to meet with leaders and the congregation. Soon after that it is anticipated that a recommendation for appointment will be made.

Please check my attitude in a few months' time to see if I am living up to my word!

This is my Aunt Vera. . .

2005-12-09T16:12:00.000-06:00

Aunt Vera is the most remarkable person I know. While her health and memory is failing somewhat at age 94, she is a person who continues to be connected to her family -- no matter what part of the world they live in.

She phones us often -- as we do her. Often when we talk she has already been talking to her late husband's children in Taiwan or Costa Rica.

Aunt Vera was a school teacher in Ontario and she still gives me a very satisfying "reaction" when I tease her about how much Mike Harris helped the teachers there during his time as Premier of the province.

Twinkle Tour in Weyburn

2005-12-08T19:50:00.000-06:00

Tonight is the Twinkle Tour in Weyburn -- an evening when residents view the Christmas lights in all parts of the city. Weyburn Free Methodist Church participates by having a live nativity display. Here are several from the congregation attempting to make the story of Christ's coming alive to those who drive past.
Fortunately the temperature has begun to moderate -- fortunate for the participants and for those who drop by.

The lazy blogger...

2005-12-08T11:24:00.000-06:00

So much has been happening over the past several weeks that I have taken the lazy way out and neglected this blog.

One of the distractions from the blog has been the death of my brother-in-law, Glen Cole. Glen died of a heart attack the day before my birthday. Wilda and I took a week off from responsibilities here at Weyburn in order to spend time with the family and -- as it turned out -- conduct Committal and Memorial Services to honor his memory, and through our memories bring honor to God.

Glen lived a life of faith and faithfulness. He kept strong connections with family members and old friends and had a routine of stopping in on them regularly. Those visits will be missed.

Happy Thanksgiving

2005-10-09T08:33:00.000-06:00

I was thinking about why we use the expression “Happy Thanksgiving?”

We use the "happy" expression a lot.
• Happy birthday.
• Happy Easter.
• Happy holidays.
• I think I have even heard "Happy Hallowe'en!
• And certainy, Happy Thanksgiving!

Does our expression imply that we are thankful only when the events of life or the circumstances of our lives create a sense of well-being or happiness within us? Or when our responses can be cheerful and positive?

If that is true, then the opposite is that we can really not be thankful if we are going through pain or struggle or loss – or anything that could be considered unfortunate or negative.

There are lots of Scriptures that direct us in this matter because giving thanks or thanksgiving is like a golden thread or pattern woven through the fabric of the Word of God.

One scripture that is very powerful comes from the Book of I Thessalonians in the New Testament and in chapter 5 and verse 18 it says: "…give thanks in all circumstances for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

Being thankful today is a way for me to live out God's will.

50 mpg...

2005-10-01T15:23:00.000-06:00

A while back I purchased a 1993 Festiva so that we would be freed up with a second vehicle during this appointment at Weyburn. It's not that often that we need two cars so this cheapie would do the job.

The original owner only used the car for around town stuff -- like going to and from work. He boasted that a tank of gasoline would last for 2 - 3 weeks and it would only cost $25.00 to fill it.

Even our occasional use requires a lot more milage that he talked about. I often use the Festiva in the weekly trips to the lake. At first he was right -- $25.00 was all that was required to fill 'er up! Of course, with rising costs of gasoline, that has changed. What has not changed is that this little car gets a nice 50 mpg cruising at highway speed.

Out my front door...

2005-09-29T16:12:00.000-06:00

On a day like today I would like to be at Arlington to enjoy the serenity of the place. There will not be too many days like this -- this year. So far in 2005 we have been swimming each month since (and including) April. October is certainly going to happen -- but we will have to wait and see about November. Last year we did!

Lloyd Colborne ... encourager

2005-09-24T11:33:00.000-06:00

At September Days, a time when seniors get together at Arlington Beach, I had opportunity to visit with my friend, Lloyd Colborne. As we chatted together, he told me again of some of the experiences of his life. Experiences of war, experiences that led him down an alcoholic path, experiences of recovery and especially, experiences of how God had been tugging at his heart over the years -- until finally he moved into a faith relationship with the Lord Jesus.

Today, Lloyd continues to be an encourager. He is encouraged by improved health in recent months, but he uses his new strength to pray for and encourage others.

Thanks, Lloyd for being an encourager!

There are good things happening...

2005-09-23T16:27:00.000-06:00

The lack of posting over the past several months is no indication that good things aren't happening!

In fact, this has been a very productive summer in the life of the church here in Weyburn and especially in the interim processes that are "intentional" in moving us along. Lots of initiatives have happened and processes established and the outcomes are clearly God's plans for us.

One of the current processes is that of the Pastoral Leadership Task Force or "Search Committee." Seven people committed to the task and working together under excellent leadership.

We are calling our people to prayer for the important decisions ahead.

Reconciliation

2005-06-08T15:00:00.000-06:00

This week I have been reading Brennan Manning's book The Wisdom of Tenderness. On the matter of reconciliation he writes:

"Reconciliation is the inner healing of our hearts by the tenderness of Jesus. Experientially, it's seldom a sudden catharsis achieved by fingerprinting the forehead; it's not a quick liberation from pain. Neither is it simply learning to be resigned to what we know can never be changed. Rather, it's a gentle growing into a oneness not of our own making. It's a calm joy flowing from an engaged, participatory encounter with the Son of compassion, the only healer in the new Isreal of God."

In this intentional interim work that I am involved in, there are times when I realize that the processes needed to bring health are more complex and demanding than can be accomplished by design, plan or human initiatives. I am at the point in this assignment where I basically do not know what to do next.

Today visiting with two different friends over coffee (at two different times) there have been enlightening and helpful conversations.

One friend reflected upon a recent sermon he heard while visiting a church in another community. That church was celebrating its 40th anniversary -- and the pastor talked about the gentle nudges that were needed to keep the church on track. He referenced the old fashioned vehicles that were kept on the road by excessive motion on the steering wheel -- necessary because of the sloppliness in the steering mechanisms. Try that same steering motion in today's vehicles and we would soon land in one ditch or the other. A gentle adjustment is all that's needed. The Holy Spirit is good at giving those necessary gentle nudges!

In the other conversation my friend expressed the view that the church may need -- not just an interim "fix it" time -- but a long term gentle pastoral time to facilitate healing and move the church in the direction of God's plan and will. I agree wholeheartedly.

I think Manning is on to something in the quote at the beginning of this article. There are not quick fixes when we are dealing with human dynamics. I hope I can help this church head in the direction of a future unobstructed by past issues -- events or disagreements that have created polarities -- in order to move in the direction of Jesus whom we meet not only in the beginning of our journey -- but all along the way.

Time to get blogging again...

2005-06-03T14:19:00.000-06:00

How easy it is to let the days go by without getting into the discipline of getting thoughts together for this blog!

Not that the days have just been going by -- by any means!

We have just returned from General Conference which was an awesome time. Wilda and I included some time to visit with family while in that part of the country.

The brief times that we get to spend at Arlington are very important to us. At this time of the year -- cutting grass and tending the garden take up most of the available time.

Anyway, I am back into the blogging and will try to have a more regular posting.

"those in power have not moved to be inclusive nor have your siblings moved to be included."

2005-04-29T14:35:00.000-06:00

If you read the comments from a couple of friends who have attached to the last posting, this is the line that captures the essence of the 'problem' that I was trying to address:

"those in power have not moved to be inclusive nor have your siblings moved to be included."

Is this not the root of most if not all the differences and interrelational tensions that we deal with in life? A failure to move towards one another. An inability to see beyond one's own perspective.

In my years of ministry, I have seen the shift from one trend to another. Whether it be visitation evangelism, discipleship programs, friendship evangelism, seeker-targeted services, modern, pomo, missional. . . you name it -- we try it! And we basically fail at each effort.

And why do we go from one (narrow) focus to another? I think it is because we are not big enough to see the whole picture. Or we look to the part and fail to see the whole.

Do we need to be evangelistic and not give attention to discipleship -- or vise versa?
Do we need to have a "come in" mentality and not a "go out" mindset -- or vise versa?

In the design of a worship service there is need to both please God and to be pleased in how we do it! Yes, it is not all about me. And therefore, it is not all about you (or others) either. Is it all about God? Maybe. But you and I are still part of the equation.

That is why I like my friend's line --"those in power have not moved to be inclusive nor have your siblings moved to be included."

Maybe from the thousands (haha) who look to this blog for sage advice these (Friday afternoon -- hohum) thoughts will stir some response.

Church issues

2005-04-22T13:38:00.000-06:00

My two siblings, a sister and a brother are each struggling with recent changes that are taking place in their respective local churches. These are each evangelical churches in two different communities with different denominational labels over the doors.

Yet, the issues are the same.

It is interesting -- and somewhat painful -- for me to watch what is happening with them -- or how they are dealing with their pain.

What is the issue?

On the surface I think each of them would say -- music -- i.e. the (new) style of doing music in their churches. However, as I have listened to them I would say that music is not the real problem. This is most always the case when people complain about music. The real problem might be change and the need to adapt to change. Or it might be leadership -- either worship leadership or pastoral leadership -- or both.

I think all of these things factor into the dissatisfaction of these two pleple who are close to me.

Why don't they leave? Each community does offer options that might be more suitable to them.

This brings up another problem -- perhaps the real one. Understand that each of us is in the generation that values loyality and commitment.

I think the real struggle that my sister and brother are dealing with is that they are victims of their own long standing loyalities.

It is more painful for them to switch to something that they would like better than to stay with something that they can hardly tolerate.

At the same time -- loyality to something that one cannot enjoy and endorse to others -- is of no value to anyone.

How many find themselves in the same delimna?

As of today...

2005-04-21T13:39:00.000-06:00

This has been a very busy month in the work that I am doing in the church where I serve.

An Intentional Interim period is an opportunity to not only try to address some of the "problems" that a church has experienced in its recent past, it is also a window to examine structures and procedures that may have been entrenched over a long period of time.

When I began this journey with the church in Weyburn, I proposed a number of processes that I believe will help through this time.

One of these was to examine the structure of the board. Rather than try to evaluate the effectiveness of the present board as it functions in a Representative Board Structure -- we proactively looked at a number of options. In this case we look at three -- The Representative Board, Leadership Culture ( a model developed by Bishop Keith) and Governance (John Carver.)

Through a process of gathering information and educating through presentation and commu nication -- the membership of the church voted to change board structure to the Leadership Culture model . This decision prompts the process of getting the new board in place and the projected date of implemention (and change from the old structure) is September 1.

Another process that has involved our attention this month is the Job Description (JDPAS) process. Director of Personnel, Alan Retzman worked with an excellent local team to develop a job description for pastoral leadership -- a jd that aligns with the mission, vision and core values of the church.

Most of this is new to the people here -- and they are wonderfully engaged in working to make this church what it needs to be.

Death of Pope John Paul II

2005-04-02T17:45:00.000-06:00

I extend my condolence to all who mourn the loss of Pope John Paul II.

With all the news coverage that he has received over the years one cannot help but admire his leadership and influence over the Roman Catholic Church worldwide. But I think beyond his own church he modelled, both in life and in dying an example of a man who walked close to God. Pastors everywhere can learn from his pastoral ways.

Easter Sunday

2005-03-27T17:29:00.000-06:00

At the crack of dawn on Sunday, the women came to the tomb carrying the burial spices they had prepared. They found the entrance stone rolled back from the tomb, so they walked in. But once inside, they couldn't find the body of the Master Jesus.

They were puzzled, wondering what to make of this. Then, out of nowhere it seemed, two men, light cascading over them, stood there.

The women were awestruck and bowed down in worship. The men said, "Why are you looking for the Living One in a cemetery? He is not here, but raised up. Remember how he told you when you were still back in Galilee that he had to be handed over to sinners, be killed on a cross, and in three days rise up?"

Then they remembered Jesus' words.

They left the tomb and broke the news of all this to the Eleven and the rest.

Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the other women with them kept telling these things to the apostles, but the apostles didn't believe a word of it, thought they were making it all up.

But Peter jumped to his feet and ran to the tomb. He stooped to look in and saw a few grave clothes, that's all. He walked away puzzled, shaking his head.

It's about time...

2005-03-17T18:09:00.003-06:00

Today I have begun a new fitness program. I joined Fitness Revolution in Weyburn.
The program that was set up for me states the goals as being:

improve cardiovacular fitness
build lean muscle mass
lose unwanted adipose tissue

We all know that adipose tissue is fat!

I will likely mention from time to time how it is going.

Wilda has also joined Curves ... but I expect you will still recognize us if you happen to meet us in the next while!

Darren's ordination

2005-03-14T11:33:00.000-06:00

Next Sunday I plan to be in Saskatoon to participate in Darren Freisen's ordination. Darren and I worked together on staff at Lakeview a few years ago and I value him as a friend, brother and as a peer in ministry.

Read Darren's blog in order to journey with him through this time.

Darreen, even through this dark valley time, next Sunday will shine as a day of God's approval as your friends gather around you for this milestone event.

What is a guy like me to do?

2005-03-12T13:04:00.000-06:00

I spent considerable time this morning reading a number of blogs (links to Jordon Cooper .)

As I peeled into layers of Brian McLaren's blog and came upon a question that caught my attention: What's a guy like me to do?

As he described his background and present situation, I found myself identifying with some of it -- not the educational part! I certainly identified with the confusion that is generated by all the expressions of change that are part of our current culture in society and in the church. On our denominational listserve there are ongoing dialogues that are confusing or unclear to me. (It is interesting that the dialogue is carried well by the younger leaders -- and either 'shut down' or obsurced when a older member of listserve jumps in!)

I read the blogs of people who are involved in the most recent transitional leadership change in our denomination and find that pain and hurt are expressed in generalities. In my present and previous work as an Intentional Interim Pastor there is a lot about church that is ugly. It is amazing how we can cast people aside and let them bleed in the ditch while we pass by on the other side.

What is a guy like me to do?

I liked McLaren's response. "Stay faithful to God. Do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with God. Don’t let up on the first-order practices – prayer, worship, confession, thankfulness, reconciliation, meditation. If you hold on in these ways, I am confident God will lead you through in time."

I think this advice would serve well any time any of us -- for any reason-- go through time of questioning, confusion, searching and change.

It's been a long time...

2005-03-11T15:58:00.000-06:00

It has been a long time since I have posted to this blog. But my friend Jordon Cooper has pushed me back into the fold! Today is Jordon's birthday -- so Jordon -- Happy Birthday!

2004-02-04T13:38:00.000-06:00

After a couple of weeks of extreme low temperatures and then a blizzard it is a treat to have closer to normal weather conditions for this time of year.

Wilda is doing the 'grandmother' thing, --last week at Jennie and Brett's and this week at Lisa and Dave's. In between we were together for the blizzard at Arlington Beach and we also did make it into Moose Jaw for Sunday service.

Yesterday and today I have been pampering a sore back -- not from shovelling snow as you might expect, but from simply bending over the engine of the car -- trying to check the level of the transmission fluid. Actually that was not a bad plan since the car would barely move forward. It is still sitting in the driveway -- as lame as my bad back.

On Monday I started taking on the responsibility of Interim Camp Director at Arlington. Jim Kautz, who has been the Director resigned, effective the end of January. He is now our full-time maintenance person. Jim is gifted for this responsibility -- and he will continue to do some of the stuff that belongs to the Director especially during this time when I am still committed part-time in Moose Jaw.

I have no idea how to be a camp director!

As I look back over my life I seem to always step into stuff that I have no training or experience in; sometimes it scares me!

For example, at age 18 I stepped into a multi-grade classroom to be the teacher. I had graduated from Grade 13 in Ontario and I had a full six weeks of training in Summer School!

Later I began pastoral work with neither professional training nor experience. By that time I had completed a bachelor's degree at Robert's Wesleyan College and had some 'life experience' in the company that employed me through college. (Even in that I learned most of what I knew on the job.)

In 1990 I was elected Conference Superintendent. Again -- learn by doing!

As an interim pastor -- at least I have had some experience built up in a church. Besides that, when a church is going through a crisis I think it would be hard to trigger another one!

At any rate, over the next little while I will try to keep my head above water as I learn to manage a year-round camp operation. We do have a great team at Arlington -- and this is where I will start!

I’m meeting with the team on Friday.

2004-01-29T09:55:00.000-06:00

And then I read this article...

"Blogging is About Making and Changing Minds."
Weblogging is an inconclusive act-- which is different from having no conclusions or firm conclusions.
Doc Searls said something important in his weblog the other day. He spoke of three approaches:

One is the "cool" approach of traditional journalism... One is the "hot" approach of talk radio, which has since expanded to TV sports networks and now Fox TV. The third is the engaged approach of weblogging. What we're doing here may be partisan in many cases, but it is also inconclusive.

And so, for me, the challenge continues.

2004-01-29T08:17:00.000-06:00

Sometimes I wonder why I got into this blogging thing.

Most people in my age category have no idea what the word means – even those a lot younger!

Definitely I was influenced by Jordon Cooper and according to his recent posts, he is struggling with blogging as well – though for totally different reasons.

For me, it is a matter of creatively producing something that is worthwhile posting. If you have been checking into my blog you see evidence of that struggle.

I am an introvert so I don’t use the blog to ‘think out loud.’ Sometimes I wish I was more free to be like that. Then I read blogs of those who do process their thoughts via the blog – only to find that those thoughts that are just developing are often taken seriously as if they were an established opinion.

Checking into blogs as they appear on the list when I go on Blogger – there is quite a sub-culture among some. There is a language that I have no interest in using and have difficulty in understanding.

Then, what about the audience?

Other than a few comments that I receive I have no idea who or how many people even check into my posts. (I don’t have a tracking system on this page.)

All that being said, the blog does provide an opportunity to discipline some thoughts that may be of interest to others. So, I will continue to post – hopefully not out of guilt of not doing so – but with an idea that I need to consider and share.

2004-01-28T16:29:00.000-06:00

Even with Wilda and me moving to Arlington Beach, we have not changed the configuration of this map.

2004-01-24T14:01:00.000-06:00

Cymric has it all!

2004-01-20T09:22:00.000-06:00

Don't be confused by the new name for this blog!

By the way, I was glad to read this report. I always appreciate this kind of information as it justifies my habit.

2004-01-19T15:56:00.000-06:00

Someone sent me this with the question:- How can you tell if your cat has seen you naked?

Be sure to have the sound turned up!

2004-01-19T15:27:00.000-06:00

'Excess eating of sweet and fatty foods, lack of exercise and excess of sleep causes obesity. There is impaired tissue metabolism leading to weakness and degeneration of tissues. There is a coating and obstruction of different channels in the body resulting in decreased supply of nutrients to tissues leading to death. [...]
-exercise may be protective.'
Sushruta Samhita 600 BC

Ctv's W5 and and several current news reports are drawing our attention to this serious problem in our country as indicated by Obesity in Canada Census

2004-01-15T11:51:00.000-06:00

Low Carb Foods Hit Grocery Shelves

Let's see if this will effectively change the obesity problem in our population!

Even the National News is getting into the problem of obesity among all segments of the population. It is amazing that the Atkins Diet and other low carb approaches are having so much publicity just now.

The Atkins plan has been around for a long time. Over the past 20 years there has been a shift from one diet plan to another. Some call for low fat and and higher carbs and others encourage fats and proteins. Once in a while there is an emphasis on the math -- calories in minus calories expended.

Still, the population increases in size -- even to the point where there is an acceptance of this increase.

There are likely a lot of factors involved in the matter of weight gains in a population -- but if we are looking for a common cause -- we must look at activity levels. And, whatever the diet that we follow -- an increase of physical activity would certainly reap benefits that go beyond weight loss.

2004-01-08T16:25:00.000-06:00

How To Market to Introverts

...or How to Understand Us!

2004-01-02T08:32:00.000-06:00

(This is yesterday's blog, but I was unable to get blogger to work.)

January 1, 2004!

Happy New Year to anyone who is reading this blog.

I started the year by participating in a 6K Resolution Run in Regina – along with about 250 other persons. It was a Fun Run and it was a fun way to start the year.

We spent the rest of the day in Regina with James and Maura and the boys, Ben and Joe.

This morning, as I was enjoying the morning coffee I was reading from Stu Mittleman’s book, Slow Burn.

Mittleman writes out of his experience as an ultra – distance runner. The chapter heading from which I was reading this morning was – Stay in the Moment --- the Future Will Take Care of Itself. His words were right on for the run this morning – and for life itself, I think. Certainly for the new year.

This is what he said:
“When I race I never run to the finish line. I immerse myself in the moment I am living. . . My mantra is ‘Manage the moment.’

Success in the thousand mile race of life is no different. Being ‘here’ is the most important thing. The ‘there’ will come; it always does. Make the most of the now. Embrace it. Keep yourself open to the possibilities your immersion into the moment may bring…”

2003-12-24T14:27:00.000-06:00

I got this from the writings of Ken Gire.

An Intimate Moment with Mary and Joseph

A scream from Mary knifes through the calm of the silent night.

Joseph returns, breathless, water sloshing from the wooden bucket. The top of the baby's head has already pushed its way into the world. Sweat pours from Mary's contorted face as Joseph, the most unlikely midwife in all Judea, rushed to her side.

The involuntary contractions are not enough, and Mary has to push with all her strength, almost as if God were refusing to come in the world without her help.

Joseph places a garment beneath her and with a final push and a long sigh, her labor is over.

The Messiah has arrived.

Elongated head from the constricting journey through the birth canal. Light skin, as the pigment would take days for even weeks to surface. Mucus in his ear and nostrils. Wet and slippery from the amniotic fluid. The son of the most High God umbilically tied to a lowly Jewish girl.

The baby chokes and coughs. Joseph instinctively turns him over and clears his throat

Then he cries.

Mary bares her breast and reaches for the shivering baby. She lays him on her chest and his helpless cries subside. His tiny head bobs around on the unfamiliar terrain. This will be the first thing the infant-king learns. Mary can feel his racing heartbeat as he gropes to nurse.

Deity nursing from a young maiden's breast. Could anything be more puzzling or more profound?

2003-12-19T16:40:00.000-06:00

This week has been rather 'flat' for me. So flat, in fact, that I wondered if I was going to be able to come up with a sermon that fits the theme of this fourth Sunday of Advent with the candle of Salvation.

However, the breakthrough came yesterday and I have made good progress on preparations for Sunday.

Next week we will have a Candlelight Service on Christmas Eve -- which I look forward to as well. However, the Sunday following is not really in my scope at this point.

Today the staff got together over lunch to share a meal. We bid "good-bye" to Eric La France and Bruce Wendel. Eric has been on staff at MJFMM (Moose Jaw Free Methodist Ministries) for a few years now and he will continue involvement in House of ROC as it launches into a church plant. Bruce has been on staff for the past year as a student intern -- a program that completes at the end of the month.

Tonight First Church sponsors and hosts a community Christmas dinner. As I viewed the dining area it is truly a beautiful welcoming sight. This evening is part of a monthly ministry that is called "Community Lunch." It truly is an outreach to less fortunate people in our community. I am so grateful to Gail Stevens and a whole crew of people in the church who make this happen.

2003-12-17T14:07:00.000-06:00

7 principles of good coffee! -- and living a good life.

2003-12-17T13:35:00.000-06:00

This is hilarious!
Jordon posted this site briefly on his blog a couple of days ago.

The facts are that we (Free Methodist Church) would have a number of candidates who would qualify! However, among the present Board of Bishops of the Free Methodist Church in North America, at least one is a runner and the others are pretty disciplined.

2003-12-16T11:01:00.000-06:00

Eugene Peterson provides a lot of challenge in this article in November's edition of The Christian Century.

In that article he says "Only when we do the Jesus truth in the Jesus way do we get the Jesus life."

If you are the type of person who looks for instant results you will likely be disappointed in what Peterson says. He says, "The contemplative life, growing towards congruence, is slow work. It cannot be hurried. It is also urgent work and cannot be put off...In the American way, slow and urgent are not compatable. They cancel one another out. But in the Christian way they are joined together. Urgent as this is, there is no hurry... There are no shortcuts to becoming the persons we're created to be."

This reminds me of the first time that I tried to run a marathon ( I completed half!) Because I was a pastor in that town I was invited to say a prayer at the beginning of the race. Along the course, a man who was much older than I passed me. He obviously could see that I did not have the training base that I needed. As he passed he said, "There are no shortcuts in this business."

This Sunday I plan to preach on the gift of salvation that we celebrate on this fourth Sunday of Advent. "Salvation" is such a big word as it includes all that Jesus brings to us.

On one hand I should be discouraged that, at age 63 ,I feel that I am just beginning to catch on to this stuff of spiritual maturity. On the other hand I am greatly encouraged that I am on the journey and at least to some extent am able to identify with the congruency that Peterson is talking about in his article.

2003-12-12T09:48:00.000-06:00

According to Gothamist I am doing most everything wrong in posting to this blog. I normally check a number of blogs each day and I notice that a lot of others are not meeting the standards of Gothamist as well.

That being said, I have to say that I appreciate blogs like Jordon’s because they become a good source of a wide range of information – including the current state of his health!

As far as I am concerned, I do well to get something posted and always I pass on something that is of interest to me even if it is just a link to another site.

A couple of weeks ago I ran a 5k race with over 900 other runners. I was amused at some of the comments from those who were volunteering at major intersections along the route. At one point, one of these guys must have been trying to encourage me with the words, “Keep breathing!” I don’t know if I looked that close to death or not – but I did finish the run in fairly good form.

On this blogging scene, I will be lucky to “Keep blogging!” whether I stick by the rules or not.

2003-12-08T08:57:00.000-06:00

American Baptists send Clergy to the Gym

2003-12-07T21:26:00.000-06:00

Rev. Wade Fitzpatrick appointed Senior Pastor at First Free Methodist Church, Moose Jaw.

The appointment letter from Bishop Elford was read in the congregation this morning. The effective date of transition is April 19, 2004.

This completes the good work of the Pastoral Leadership Task Force that has worked the process leading to the recommendation that Pastor Wade become the pastoral leader for the next chapter of ministry for this congregation.

2003-12-06T22:18:00.000-06:00

Free Polar Beat Heart Rate Monitor

2003-12-06T21:39:00.000-06:00

A quote from George Barna in Think Like Jesus

"...postmodernism challenges much but answers little."

2003-12-06T21:26:00.000-06:00

Thom S. Rainer on Good to Great Churches -- pastor tenure

My research team has been monitoring the length of time pastors stay at churches over the past decade. We have come to some very clear conclusions. First, by almost any standard, pastoral tenure is brief. Though the average tenure is almost five years now — its highest in several years — our team realizes that many pastors and ministers need that long just to establish trust.

Second, we also see the clear pattern that the most common point of departure for a pastor is in years three to five of his ministry. And the most common reason given for leaving a church is some type of conflict.

Third, by most of the measures we know to use, and by our own subjective observations, the most productive years of a pastor’s ministry typically begin after years seven or eight. Yet only 14 percent of pastors stay at a church for 10 or more years.

Greatness Takes Time

By now you can see where this analysis is headed. If a pastor is to have truly productive years of ministry, he most likely needs to plan on staying at a church for 10 years to a lifetime. But, primarily because of conflict, very few pastors will ever make it to these fruitful years. Most will continue to search for the elusive better, and perhaps bigger, church.
All of the good to great pastors we studied have been at their churches for over 10 years. All of them went through some type of conflict, but they decided to stay with the church. The other side of the conflict would then usher in the truly productive years.

2003-12-05T09:33:00.000-06:00

There is a point in everyone's life when we either go with what we think is right or what we think is popular.

2003-12-03T19:41:00.000-06:00

A lot of stuff has happened since I last blogged:

1. A new grandson, Jonathon Dennis Lysack was born November 20 in Brandon.

2. I conducted a JDPAS with the Timmins Church in Sudbury.

3. I attended the National Board of The Free Methodist Church in Canada.

4. I ran a 5 km event (Tim Horton's Jingle Bell Run) in Burlington.

5. I actually preached one Sunday in Moose Jaw.

2003-11-12T14:48:00.000-06:00

Exercise with an Expresso

You're looking for good advice? Here it is!

2003-11-12T14:39:00.000-06:00

Here's a church that needs an Intentional Interim pastor!

Scores Hurt in Church Brawl

NAIROBI (Reuters)

Scores of worshippers were hurt in a brawl over church leadership during Sunday prayers at a Kenyan Church, local papers reported.

The Kenya Times said it took the intervention of police to stop part of the congregation from strangling a pastor appointed to take control of the running of the Buru Buru Church of God in the capital Nairobi.

"For over four hours, the congregation booed, insulted and heckled Reverend James Omumia," the newspaper said.

"Scores of faithful...were left seriously injured when a free-for-all fist fight erupted."

The People newspaper said members of the congregation also turned their backs on the pulpit when Omumia attempted to continue with his service."

The church has been divided into rival congregations by a dispute over its management after church elders dismissed some leaders on charges of financial irregularity.

2003-11-09T18:08:00.000-06:00

You can transform your favorite blog by entering the URL here.

2003-11-06T13:03:00.000-06:00

Jordon Cooper's blog affects change in dress code in City Hall, Saskatoon.

2003-11-05T16:29:00.000-06:00

All three parties in Saskatchewan are claiming the potential to win!

One of them is right!

2003-11-04T16:20:00.000-06:00

The crowd is not always right!

Upon Griswold asking the congregation whether it was "your will that we ordain Gene a bishop," the release said the response was loud and clear. "That is our will," congregants shouted, according to the Episcopal Church release.

Matthew 27:17 - 22 As the crowds gathered before Pilate's house that morning, he asked them, "Which one do you want me to release to you – Barabbas, or Jesus who is called the Messiah?" 18 (He knew very well that the Jewish leaders had arrested Jesus out of envy.) 19 Just then, as Pilate was sitting on the judgment seat, his wife sent him this message: "Leave that innocent man alone, because I had a terrible nightmare about him last night." 20 Meanwhile, the leading priests and other leaders persuaded the crowds to ask for Barabbas to be released and for Jesus to be put to death. 21 So when the governor asked again, "Which of these two do you want me to release to you?" the crowd shouted back their reply: "Barabbas!"

2003-11-04T15:29:00.000-06:00

Cell phone in toilet makes it flush hour

This guy's all wet!
A man riding a Metro-North train dropped his cell phone in a toilet and got his arm stuck trying to retrieve it Thursday, forcing the train to stop and delaying the evening commute for thousands of people.

2003-11-04T15:13:00.000-06:00

This is a test.

2003-11-04T11:52:00.000-06:00

How's this for Christian Personals?

Man seeks third wife to move to mountens to wait for empending apocolips. We nead good cook + washer. Do you belong in our group? Escape the terrors of th aage! Join us. #5720893

2003-11-03T18:42:00.000-06:00

Man, 91, dies waiting for will of God

TUPELO — Walter Houston, described by family members as a devoted Christian, died Monday after waiting 70 years for God to give him clear direction about what to do with his life.
"He hung around the house and prayed a lot, but just never got that confirmation," his wife Ruby said. "Sometimes he thought he heard God's voice, but then he wouldn't be sure, and he'd start the process all over again."
Houston, she says, never really figured out what his life was about, but felt content to pray continuously about what he might do for the Lord. Whenever he was about to take action, he would pull back "because he didn't want to disappoint God or go against him in any way," Ruby says. "He was very sensitive to always remain in God's will. That was primary to him."

2003-10-29T11:41:00.000-06:00

Allan M. Lysack receives Order of Canada award.

Allan is my son-in-law's (Dave) father.

Congratulations, Allan!

2003-10-29T11:14:00.000-06:00

2003-10-29T11:09:00.000-06:00

We have been on the road a lot lately. After the week in Canmore we had an exceptional sevice in First Church on Sunday. There were at least two features in the service. First, the children's department led the worship and did an awesome job. Thanks to Becky Holoien for the wonderful work she does with the children in the church!

Bruce Wendel, student intern, preached as we continued in the Series on learning from the first church in the first century in order to become the First Church in the 21st century. The message was about discipleship and the conclusion of the service was the baptism of 8 persons who declared their faith commitment through believers' baptism.

Since we do not have a baptismal tank installed we brought in a hot tub and had it set up on the platform. Baptismal testimonies always stir the peoples' responses and as each person came up out of the water they heard the applause and celebration of the congregation.

Following Sunday's service Wilda and I drove to Brandon and on Monday evening attended our niece's piano recital. It was a great evening as we connected with other family members who were there for this occasion.

Yesterday we travelled back to Arlington -- bringing my sister Donelda and (92 year old) Aunt Vera. They both live in Owen Sound, Ontario and are spending this week with us at Arlington.

Today, I'm back in Moose Jaw. Board meeting tonight and normal stuff in the life of the church.

2003-10-25T09:22:00.000-06:00

Just got back from a good week at Canmore. Wilda and I are going out for a coffee so I'll blog later in the day.

2003-10-18T19:36:00.000-06:00

Job Description Performance Appraisal System (JDPAS)strong>

Another 1300 km driven and another job description completed!

I have just returned from working with the Winnipeg church in the JDPAS process.

JDPAS is a system that has been initiated by The Free Methodist Church in Canada to provide churches and pastors a way to clarify desired outcomes expressed in a Job description. The JD document becomes a guide for a pastor in doing her/his work and provides an objective means for evaluation purposes.

The job description is not written in a vacuum. The process involves information gathering based on seven tools. From these tools we identify and interrupt information as well as discuss the implications for the church. This provides the content out of which we craft Mission and vision statements as well as core values. The Job Description is crafted in such a way that it will enable the church to see its vision fulfilled. (The vision statement describes a two year vision.)

As I was working with the group last evening, I thought of the great potential churches have. The group’s first category for their job description was for their pastor to be a ‘change agent.’ Wouldn’t you like to step into a position like that? – moving into a church that knows that it must change but wanting to change and needing a leader to come and help them do this.

2003-10-16T09:29:00.000-06:00
It's been such a long time since this blog has been in circulation. I have decided to get back to it.

Tomorrow Wilda and I will travel to Winnipeg (actually Wilda will stop off at Brandon and spend some time with grandkids there.) I am completing a Job Describtion for Crestview Park Free Methodist Church. We will return on Saturday as I am preaching in Moose Jaw this weekend.

2003-10-15T17:02:00.000-06:00
Deal struck to unite-the-right
Last Updated Wed, 15 Oct 2003 18:52:44
OTTAWA - There's been a history-making breakthrough in the talks to unite-the-right. The leaders of the Progressive Conservatives and the Canadian Alliance have reached an agreement in principle to merge their parties.

2003-07-22T09:46:00.000-06:00
It's been so long since I have blogged that I was delighted to find that Blogger is new and improved! These summer weeks are too filled with activity to be spending much time at the computer. I am not even reading my favorite bogs much, thouch I do check out Jordon Cooper often.

I am still commuting between Arlington Beach and Moose Jaw at least twice weekly.

2003-06-18T09:11:00.000-06:00
Ticking Off People to the Glory of God in six easy steps

Now that we live in a country that has accepted a new definition of marriage -- the above article may give encouragement to Christ-followers.

2003-06-11T10:28:00.000-06:00
Blix: I was smeared by the Pentagon

Helena Smith in New York
Wednesday June 11, 2003
The Guardian

Hans Blix, the UN chief weapons inspector, lashed out last night at the "bastards" who have tried to undermine him throughout the three years he has held his high-profile post.
In an extraordinary departure from the diplomatic language with which he has come to be associated, Mr Blix assailed his critics in both Washington and Iraq.

2003-06-11T09:20:00.000-06:00
ONTARIO COURT ORDERS REDEFINITION OF MARRIAGE

The Evangelical Fellowship of Canada (EFC) is deeply concerned and
disappointed with the decision released today by the Ontario Court of
Appeal in the case of Halpern v. Canada which ordered the immediate
reformulation of marriage. If this decision is not appealed same sex
marriages will be legalized in Ontario.

Here are two important questions posed by one of the Ontario pastors in The Free Methodist Church in Canada:
(a) Is this the time for local congregations and ordained ministers of the Gospel to get out of doing the government's business (officiating marriages), for which we have no "scriptural" directives, and giving ourselves totally to the apostolic ministry of the Gospel and the care of God's people? I can see Christian couples being joined lawfully by Justices of the Peace or Commissioners of Marriage, then returning to the fellowship of their brothers and sisters to be celebrated and prayed over with great joy and reverence.

(b) Should I take the lead and be part of a silent protest by relinquishing my authorization to perform marriages? This could also mean in Canada that I would likely no longer be able to sign documents (passport applications, etc.) which are now calling for the Minister of Religion's marriage licence number.

2003-05-28T18:48:00.000-06:00
A physician, a civil engineer, and a consultant were arguing about what was the oldest profession in the world.
The physician remarked, "Well, in the Bible, it says that God created Eve from a rib taken out of Adam. This clearly required surgery, and so I can rightly claim that mine is the oldest profession in the world."

The civil engineer interrupted, and said, "But even earlier in the book of Genesis, it states that God created the order of the heavens and the earth from out of the chaos. This was the first and certainly the most spectacular application of civil engineering. Therefore, fair doctor, you are wrong: mine is the oldest profession in the world."

The consultant leaned back in her chair, smiled, and then said confidently, "Ah, but who do you think created the chaos?"

2003-05-28T10:30:00.000-06:00
Many American Christians, however, hop from one church to another without any identity, accountability, or commitment. They have not been taught that the Christian life involves more than just believing - it also includes belonging. We grow in Christ by being in relationship to other Christians.