What was the best thing about the Voices Retreat?
The fellowship with other ministers was wonderful
and desperately needed. Just being with others who face similar
challenges, burdens and joys was a balm to my spirit. I came home
renewed and excited about ministry and the people who follow this
call with me in the world.
Hearing Gordon Atkinson's story of
reallivepreacher.com was fascinating. It was heartening to hear
how many people his blog has touched, but saddening to hear how we
in the institutional church may not ever be able to break bread with
those very people. I felt challenged, chastened and thoroughly
nonplussed. What to do about the wall of separation between those in
great need and our greatest joy? There are no simplistic answers. We
have all tried them and they don't work.
And while it might not be the best thing about the
retreat, I have to honestly say that it was great to be away from my
family and my church, even if only for a day. Don't tell anyone that
this was the main reason all the clergy were there, however. Really,
it was the first two reasons. No, really.
Chris Michael, Pastor,
Cherry Log
Christian Church
