Emotions

How can one have so many conflicting emotions running through their very soul?

This past Sunday I was called to be the new pastor at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ in Downers Grove, Illinois. The new call also means that I will soon be leaving my current call as pastor of Union Congregational United Church of Christ in Somonauk, Illinois.

I’m sad to be leaving Somonauk. Over the past 5 years, I’ve come to love the community and the congregation. I’m going to miss both very much.

I’m thrilled to have a new opportunity in Downers Grove. I grew up in this town.  The people are warm and welcoming. I can see so many great possibilities as I begin as a minister at St. Paul’s

I’m relieved to have found a new full-time pastoral call. The last year has been particularly difficult, as the wonderful congregation in Somonauk has transitioned from full-time to part time ministry. I and the congregation have struggled to find a way to make that not only work, but for ministry to thrive through it.

The Psalms are great at expressing a wide range of emotions. This week’s reading from Psalm 19 expresses  gratefulness and humility. 

Those are two other emotions I’m feeling.  I’m grateful for the last 5 years of ministry in Somonauk and for a new opportunity.  And I’m humbled that I’ve had the opportunity to serve at Union Congregational, and that I’ll soon be serving at St. Paul’s

“Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to you, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer.”