Byron Center Follow-Up

I had the opportunity this evening to lead a small devotional service for the Volunteers in Mission (VIM) Group that was staying at the Byron Center. I was invited to dinner before and had a chance to snap picture from the rear deck of the dining hall. It is a gorgeous view!

After the devotional time, two of the leaders of the group presented Christa and I with T-shirts as we did participate with their projects for a short time. I can now start a new collection of United Methodist T-shirts to replace my residence life T-shirts.

A Time of Volunteering

On Sunday and Monday, Christa and I had the opportunity to participate in two volunteer opportunities.

Highway Clean-Up - The Tabor United Methodist Church participates in the Adopt-a-Highway program. They have the portion of County Road B that passes by the church. I had never done something like this before. Christa had done this growing up. I was amazed by how clean the road actually was. With nine participants, we only collected three bags of trash. I think some of the roads in Oshkosh and especially roads in Milwaukee...the folks of Eden keep their roads quite clean.

I think this is a wonderful way for members of the church to be stewards of the Earth. I am looking forward to being able to participate in this event. I hope you are, too!

Volunteers in Ministry (VIM) Group - A family camp group is currently staying at the Byron Center. They are giving their time to help beautify the camp grounds. They are staining various wood areas, trimming trees and bushes, inventorying items and fixing bathroom and venting areas. I am amazed by their work and was honored to be able to join in their work this morning. Tomorrow I will have the chance to give a brief message to them as well as offer Holy Communion.

It is sad to know, however, that this work will only be seen by visitors for the next few months, as the camp will be up for sale soon.

Senior High Convocation 2009

I just received information regarding Senior High Convo 2009. It takes place on November 13-15. If we can get individuals registered early, it is only $50-60 dollars for the weekend. Hotel rates look pretty reasonable. I encourage you to check out the link and see what is going on that weekend.

The Chula Vista is a fun resort and we'd get to hang out in Wisconsin Dells at an indoor waterpark when we know the temperatures will be taking a cold dive quickly!

I have never been to Convo. event, but I can tell that it will be an enriching spiritual experience and it will be an opportunity to meet folks all over the state. You can learn about other people's journey with Christ.

If you want to talk about it more, feel free to E-mail me or give me a call: (920) 583-3352.

Welcome to "The Pastor's Notebook"

God's Blessings to You!

I appreciate you taking the opportunity to check out a new blog that I have put together as I begin my ministry as a pastor in the United Methodist Church.

I began my first appointment as a Local Pastor for two churches: Oakfield United Methodist Church & Tabor United Methodist Church in Eden. I wanted to create a forum by which I could keep church members, friends and other community members posted about what is going on in Oakfield and Eden.

Here is a sample of some of things that I will be posting:

• Sermon Previews - In the middle of the week, it is my hope to post a key verse for the upcoming sermon along with a brief preview of what will be talked about.
• Upcoming Events - More major church events, I will post some information about that event.
• Reflections - Depending on what what comes up in the news and what comes up regarding current events in the local area, Wisconsin, the US and the world, I may post some thoughts about it.
• Interesting Links

There will always be the option to post comments if you would like, and in fact I would encourage individuals to do so.

I am excited to see what can be accomplished through this blog. May the grace and peace of Jesus Christ be with you.