Pastor Pete's Blog

A Good Get-away

2012-02-21T05:18:00.000-08:00

    Since my retirement Joyce and I have taken a winter trip to get away from rain, snow, and cold of Ohio. These get-aways are similar to summer get-aways to the beach. Last week was this year' get-away.
    My friends laugh at my get aways because I am always taking a book or a project with me. To them my get-ways seem like another day at the office. The only difference is that I am wearing a bathing suit. This should not surprise you. I told you in a sermon that I am a Type-A personality often on steroids. My get-aways are when I have the time, without interruption, to read, think creatively, plan the future, and let my administrative imagination run wild. The beach, summer or winter, is the perfect getaway for me.
    This past week I worked on two projects. One of them was to prepare a presentation for a group of Lutheran pastors. The assigned topic is, The Augsburg Confession Yesterday And Today. I will use "Tradition" to describe the place the Confession has in defining what Lutherans believe. I will use a communication model as a way to form a dialogue between the 16th century Confession and today’s church. And, I will use a key planning question to identify about what is not in the Confession but should be. The presentation is on the 22nd of March. I will be putting together a PowerPoint design to communicate what I want to say in words and images.
    By the end of last week, I began to think about offering this presentation to the disciples at Epiphany. I think that Epiphany has many disciples who are deeply interested in the teachings of the church. I also believe that the discussion might be fruitful and lively. To determine the practicality of such a presentation, I am using this blog to determine interest in such an adventure. If twelve disciples at Epiphany (12 is a holy number), I will offer this presentation at a time to be determined. Let me know if morning, afternoon, or evenings are best.
    It was a good week. The creative juices flowed even if the weather was cloudy and cool.
Pastor Pete

Three Worship Styles

2012-02-07T04:40:00.000-08:00

    I have received a number of comments lately about the PowerPoint graphics that illustrate my sermons. Last week, one person recited all the points of the sermon correctly and credited the graphics for her accomplishments. This was amazing since most people can’t remember the sermon when they leave the sanctuary never mind at a later time. I was honored. A mother told me that her young daughter didn’t listen to the sermon but she just loved the pictures. The fact that kids pay attention during an adult exercise called a sermon is a miracle in and of its self. The mother’s statement was a compliment and I will keep the pictures coming.
    As I reflect on these two comments, I remembered a sociological breakdown of American society. Sociologically, three groups of people make up the American public. It should be stated that all three groups make up the membership of a congregation but one of the three groups usually dominates a congregation.
    The first group are Word People. Word People are those who learn and are stimulated by the spoken and written word. There are several ways to identify a word person. Word People say “I think ...” Word People believe that the most important part of worship is the sermon. (I am not going to debate the theology of this statement except to say it is the way that it is.) If Word People miss church, they may ask their friends, What did the pastor say in his/her sermon? Word people sit in the back of the sanctuary. Do you recognize anything Lutheran in this group?
    The second group are Visual People. Visual People learn and are stimulated by visual images and color. Visual People say, “I see ...” Visual people are very aware of the color of the paraments and look to see if the flowers match well with the paraments. When the colors do not match, they become upset. They are very concerned with banners, stain glass windows, and colored bulletins that present the theme of the day. In my last church, extreme Visual People said to me, “I really don’t listen to the sermon, I am spiritually moved by the way the sun comes through the stain glass window in the front of the church. God speaks to me in all of those colors and reflections.
    The third group are Kinesthetic People. Kinesthetic People say, “I feel ...” They like movement. Therefore, they sit in the front of the church to see what is happening. They watch the movement of the pastor’s hands in prayer, offering the peace of the Lord, or in the elevation of the bread and wine of Holy Communion. Kinesthetic People join the Drama Club or want to see liturgical dance as part of the service.
    Going back to the comments on the PowerPoint graphics in the first paragraph, those who made the comments have an insight into what is happening in the worship services. The graphics increase the number of worshipers who can relate to the sermon. Word People still have the written and spoken word. Visual People now have graphics which match their style of seeing God’s word in a way that fits their personality. And, I might add, Kinesthetic People have the movement in the liturgy that gives worship extra meaning for them.
    So let me ask, who are you? Do you think, or do you see, or do you feel? Probably some of each but one will be more dominant over the other two. Does this help you to understand what you like best about church, about Epiphany, and about its worship?
Pastor Pete

The Power Of Stories

2012-01-31T04:37:00.001-08:00

    I am reading Rise To Rebellion by Jeff Shaara. It is a novel about the 1770s in Boston. The introduction states that all of the events happened they way they are portrayed, but the author created the dialogue between Sam and John Adams as well as the thoughts and the feelings of General Gage and his fellow officers. Last night I read about the horror felt in the stomaches of the British army caused by their defeated at Concord.
    I am also watching the HBO series on John Adams and his career. Again the events are actual and the dialogue is created by the author of the movie script. I am caught by the dialogue that goes on between John and Abigail, his wife. Some of that dialogue was copied from conversations that often occur between me and Joyce.
    As I am reading and watching these two “true fictions” (I know true fiction is an oxymoron), I am amazed how putting history into story form makes a compelling read or pleasurable watching. I know that most Americans lack a good sense of history so I wonder what would happen if history courses were taught in school through good true fiction novels and movies. I think we would certainly have a much better retension of history.
    The same principle holds true for teaching the Christian faith. At Good Shepherd, they taped my sermons for distribution. I listened to the tapes as a way to improve my preaching. One thing that I learned was that when I told a story about myself or someone else, the sanctuary became very quiet. Babies even stopped fussing. But when I talked about John 3:16, or Romans 8:38-39, the noise level grew. Babies fussed, teenagers dropped their bulletins, and adults looked at their watches. I concluded that it is the power of the story that holds a congregation’s attention.
    Children learn who their parents are by the stories of their parent’s youth. Little children want to know what it was like when their parents were their age. The plea is repeated almost on a daily basis to have mom or dad tell a story.
    On an organizational level, we learn the culture of a congregation by the stories that are told. “When pastor so and so was here, we did this and this and this.” The this, and this, and this reveal what the congregation values. That is especially true if similar stories are told about the successor of pastor so and so.
    So let me ask, What are the stories that you tell about yourself to your family and friends? If you stopped and analyzed those stories, what do they reveal about your values and perspective on life? What are the stories that you tell about the place where you work? What do they reveal about the culture and values of your work environment? Finally, what are the stories that you tell about Epiphany? These stories reveal how you feel about the ministry of our congregation and those who lead it. It this the message you want to send?
    To go back to the beginning of this blog, people do not remember dates concerning the Stamp Act, or the Boston Tea Party, or America’s victory at Concord but they do remember the stories told about those events. People will not always remember your birthday or anniversary but they will remember the stories you tell about your friendships and/or marriage. And, people will not remember the founding date of Epiphany but they will remember the stories you tell about its ministries. Stop and think for a moment about the stories you tell and ask, do they convey the message you want remembered?
Pastor Pete

Nap Theology

2012-01-24T04:25:00.001-08:00

    Yesterday, I got into a great discussion about naps. At lunch, we talked about how a new person emerges when the nap has come to an end. There were idyllic descriptions of the chair that allowed one to just sit and within minutes be asleep. My addition to the conversation is that I begin my naps by reading a book through my eyelids. It was a fun conversation filled with memories.
    On just a little bit of the serious side, naps are a great statement of faith for pastors. When a pastor naps, the pastor entrusts the church and its members to God. While the pastor sleeps, God must watch over the pastor’s flock. God must make sure there are no crises that cannot be handled with the pastor wakes up. And most important, God must not interfere with decisions that have already been made. Be assured it is no small feat turning everything over to God while reading through your eyelids.
    There are other behaviors besides naps that are similar acts of faith. For me, my yard is such a place. I am anxiously looking forward to the day I can prepare the flower beds. When May finally arrives, it will be time to plant the annuals. Throughout the summer, the weeds which stubbornly grow between the flowers will be dug out. I can spend several hours in such activity while God is running the church and the world.
    I could go on and on justifying naps. If I wanted more justification than theology has to offer, there is always Stephen Covey’s book The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People. The seventh habit is sharpening the saw. Naps and working in the yard are Covey’s sharpening the saw for me. But who needs justification for that which is healthy and good?
    As I write this blog, I wonder what are your great acts of faith? Is it a nap? Is it reading a book? Is it getting out of the office to hit a bucket of golf balls? Is it a walk through a public park? Is it the daily walking the dog? It is a great act of faith not having to be in control of everything that is happening. This act of faith doesn’t have to be long. A half-hour to an hour once a week can create a whole new person. So, have a nap on me.
Pastor Pete

Paraphrasing Scripture

2012-01-17T05:06:00.000-08:00

    During my prayer time, I am often moved to paraphrase scripture. The great benefit of paraphrasing scripture is that scripture addresses exactly what is happening in my life. In a previous blog, I shared with you my paraphrasing of Psalm 8 and how I see that Psalm relating to the church. About 3:00 this morning I woke paraphrasing Romans 8:38-39 word for word. By the way, Romans 8:38-39 is my favorite scripture passage.
    Romans 8 reads as follows. For I am sure that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
    This morning, I substituted for neither death, nor live .... the following. I am sure that neither the daily commute from Cincinnati to Centerville, nor creating a strategy to deal with Epiphany’s debt (mortgage) obligation, nor worries about being relevant in this week’s sermon, nor questions about the future of Epiphany, nor wondering what I will write in this week’s blog, nor getting so caught up in daily routine that I lose sight of God’s hand holding and guiding me as well as Epiphany, nor questions and fears about where God is going to call me to service in the future will ever be able to separate me from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
    If you were to paraphrase Romans 8 after you read this blog, what would be its content? Here are some possible forces that we contend with at Epiphany. I am sure that the anger over the split that occurred in 2011, nor the lack of response by others to participate in a ministry for which I have a tremendous passion, nor the long wait for a new senior pastor, nor the pain in having to make difficult financial decisions, nor tight budgets will ever be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
    On a personal level, a paraphrase of Romans 8 might read: I am sure that a crammed schedule, nor the feeling of being pulled in multiple directions at the same time, nor the lack of time to restore my spirit, nor the constant feeling of being tired, nor the failure to live up to my and others expectations of me will ever be able to separate me from the love of God in Christ Jesus my Lord.
    Paul wrote his words to a congregation living in the midst of the world’s mightiest power. The Jews had be expelled from Rome. There was distrust of Christians. But Paul is sure that the might of Rome is not powerful enough to destroy the church or him. Paraphrasing Romans 8 specifically names the powers that would pull us away from God and Jesus. Spend the next 10 minutes naming the powers in your life that pull you away from God who loves you. Then remind yourself that God is more powerful than all these forces.
Pastor Pete

New Language At Epiphany

2012-01-10T05:04:00.000-08:00

    I have written two blogs on the use of language. Both Blogs referred to the tense of the verb in a sentence. Both Blogs maintained that when a person says “I should have done ...” that person is living in the past. The hurt, anger, and frustration of a past experience dominates a person’s emotions. When the verb tense become future, “Next time I will do ...” that person is now moving on and leaving the negative emotions of the past behind. Language and verb tenses reveal a lot about what is happening in our individual lives and in the life of Epiphany.
    The language of Epiphany is changing once more. The new year is a mere 10 days old and a new language is emerging. More and more comments are coming to me either directly or are being relayed from other conversations about my tenure at Epiphany. Examples of these comments are: “We are going to miss you.” “Pete has been good for us but it is time to move on.” “We are glad you were here but we are looking forward to the new senior pastor.”
    In response to these comments, I want to say, What a complement they are and I thank you for them. I have always believed that good leadership prepares people to function effectively and efficiently. When it is time for the leader to leave, the congregation continues on without missing a beat. The role of leadership is to establish appropriate boundaries and then turn people loose to use their skills and abilities to achieve the purpose and strategic plan of their congregation. In my opinion, many good disciples have been turned loose to serve Jesus by serving the members of Epiphany and those outside the walls of our congregation.   The role of leadership is to give permission to be people to be all that they can be.
    I believe the comments about the end of my tenure are an indication of the current health of Epiphany. These comments reveal an anticipation of a bright and fruitful ministry in the months and years ahead. They affirm a belief that God has not abandoned Epiphany; rather, God provides the leadership to guide Epiphany to love Jesus by serving others. I rejoice in your anticipation and your enthusiasm.
    I should add that I still have some work to do over the next month or two. My remaining time at Epiphany will be spent removing barriers so that the new senior pastor can begin his ministry without major challenges demanding immediate answers. I am working with a team of four to reduce Epiphany’s debt obligation. I will be working with the Ministry Lane leaders to add clarification and detail to the new administration system implemented this year. I also plan to share with the staff some ideas on evangelism. Of course, there are the pastoral duties of worship and chaplaincy care for members.
    I believe that my work over the next month(s) will match perfectly with anticipation of the arrival of a new senior pastor. What an exciting time to be here and watch the work of the Holy Spirit among us!
Pastor Pete

Christmas in Bethlehem

2012-01-03T03:03:00.000-08:00

    I have been asked many times about our trip to Israel and especially what was it like to be in Bethlehem to worship on Christmas Eve. I am a process person which means my answer will probably change over the next few weeks as I process my Bethlehem and Israel experiences. With my preference for process in mind, this is where I am today in my answer.
    I am 100% a word person. In matters of faith, it is the quality of the biblical interpretations and the depth of theology that form the basis for evaluating the quality of an experience. I am not a visual person but I do know gaudy when I see it. I am not normally an emotional person but I can be moved by experiences. Recognizing my preference for the spoken and written word, I traveled to Israel and Bethlehem wondering how the churches and merchants would use visual aids to highlight Jesus’ birth and to get tourists to buy their merchandise? I did not expect to see a lot of Christmas trees, Advent wreaths, or banners, but I did expect to see visual Christmas symbols reflecting mid-eastern culture. What struck me most was how few visual Christmas symbols were in churches and on the street. I could use most of the photos I took on previous trips and say this is what Christmas looks like in the Holy Land. Of course, there were the exceptions. There was a large Christmas tree in Madaba (Jordan) decorated with Santa hats. There was one vender’s stand with Santa balloons in Nazareth. There were small Christmas trees with blinking lights in Christmas Lutheran Church in Bethlehem and the Crusader Chapel in Jerusalem. But by and large, Christmas symbols were absent.
    I will be the first to tell you that we don’t need Christmas trees, Advent wreaths, banners, or nativity scenes to celebrate the birth of Christ. It is the theology behind the story that makes Christmas what it is. But, there is something special about hearing the Christmas story according to St. Luke read in Bethlehem. There is something special about singing “O little town of Bethlehem” when Jesus was born a ten minute walk away from where you are singing. There is something special about candles being lit accompanied by the singing of “Silent Night.” Even a word process person can be moved in such a setting.
    We got home safely - obviously. On Saturday I arrived at Epiphany about 4:30 for the 5:30 service. I planned to follow my normal Saturday routine; i.e., check the sound system, mark the Bible passages to be read, etc. As I entered the sanctuary, my eyes were overwhelmed by the poinsettias in front of the altar and the three Christmas trees full of lights and beauty. What marvelous symbols to help celebrate the First Sunday After Christmas. As a word person, I was struck by how meaningful the symbols in the sanctuary were. I concluded God was playing with my preferences in evaluating experiences.
    Since Saturday night I have wondered what are the other symbols that are so much a part of my life that I do not notice them until they are not there? These symbols are not the center of my beliefs. In fact, they are on the periphery of my beliefs. But their mere presence creates the atmosphere encouraging me to rejoice in what God has so freely given. Since Saturday, I have also wondered about the symbols of Epiphany, or the church year, or of faith that raise your anticipation and delight in your faith and belief in God the Father and in his Son, Jesus, who was born in Bethlehem.
Pastor Pete

Now I Believe

2011-12-13T04:40:00.001-08:00

    The story of Jesus meeting the Samaritan woman at the well ends with the woman telling her neighbors about Jesus. Her story must have been compelling because the neighbors believed enough to seek out Jesus and to listen to him for themselves. After hearing Jesus, the neighbors say to the woman, “It is no longer because of your words that we believe, for we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this is indeed the Savior of the world.” (John 4:42)
    For years I have advised congregations to expand their ministry profile to include the seven ways people learn: 1. math (logic), 2. verbal (spoken and written word), 3. spacial (relationship between objects), 4. interpersonal relationships (we learn from others), 5. introspection (paying attention to feelings), 6. music, and 7. physical activities. I advocated that all these learning styles be present in Sunday School classes, worship, and other ministry programs. In advocating for all these learning styles, I was like the neighbors who believed the Samaritan woman. From all my studies, I knew I was right.
    Like the Samaritan woman’s neighbors, I have experienced first hand what I once believed because of others. My faith in using all seven learning styles is no longer because experts in parish administration, professional educators, or authors of church growth tell me to do so. This past year I have seen the power of all seven learning styles in a summer play, heard about a magnificent performance of the Gloria, and watched the joy on children’s faces as they told the Christmas story in a musical. I drove home last Sunday thinking about the diversity in which the faith is experienced at Epiphany. There is the spoken word for those who learn through sermons. There are the choirs that sing God’s praises for those who learn through music. There are theatrical productions for those who learn through physical action and feelings. There are liturgical enhancements such as Advent Wreaths, Christmas Trees, and different color paraments for those who learn by seeing.
    The impetus for this Blog was the Children’s Musical last Saturday and Sunday. The actors were second through eighth graders who learned about the birth of Jesus through music and words. Preschoolers had their own song. Non-members of Epiphany heard the message and observed Christians having fun, laughing, and rejoicing in the gift God gives in Jesus. The director Kandis Wean, producer Amy Ulman, choreographer Erin Ulman, and music director Ian Benjamin did a marvelous job in guiding and inspiring our budding thespians and evangelists. Of course, I would be amiss if I did not mention the whole Drama Team which worked so hard behind the scenes.
    Finally, my thanks to all the kids who participated in the Christmas Musical, to those who sang from their hearts in the Gloria, to those who prepared the church building with Christmas symbols, and to all who turned belief from someone said it is so to a life-changing experience in Jesus. In the words of Jesus, “Well done my good and faithful servants.”
Pastor Pete

Theology of Competition

2011-12-06T04:58:00.000-08:00

    William Diehl was a top executive in a national steel company in the 1960s and 70s. He was a very well known and influential layman in the Lutheran Church In America. And, first and foremost, he was a Christian. Because of these credentials, Mr. Diehl was often invited to address synod conventions and clergy workshops. In one of his books he writes that he enjoyed baiting clergy with the question, “What is your theology of competition?” In these settings, most of the clergy did not answer Mr. Diehl’s question. I suspect there are several reason for the non-response. 1. The first time you are asked a question, the answer is not automatic. No matter what you answer the words feel awkward. 2. It is threatening to answer such a question in front of your colleagues who sometimes can be critical of theological answers.
    While I don’t remember a great deal about Mr. Diehl; i.e., the name of his company or the exact year in which I read his book, I obviously remember his question. We live in a land and time that worships competition. We compete on every level of life. We competed, consciously or subconsciously, with our siblings when we were young. We competed in school for good grades or to make an athletic team. We compete at our work for a raise or promotion. We argue, rightly so, that competition pushes us to be the best that we can be. Competition forces creativity, hard work, and an excited feeling when we win. In our culture, competition is everywhere. Mr. Diehl’s question is very appropriate.
    After asking his question, Mr. Diehl pointed out that the Bible does not have a theology of competition. In fact, Paul denounces competition. Instead, Paul offers a theology of cooperation and teamwork. Paul argues that we are at our very best when we work together to achieve a common goal. We are at our very best when we push each other so that we all might succeed. We are at our very best when we celebrate each other’s contributions to our combined effort. Perhaps the best text for this theology is in Paul’s metaphor of the human body, 1 Corinthians 12:14-26. Every part of the body needs every other part of the body.
    I thought of Mr. Diehl’s baiting question and his answer about competition when I wished the staff a very merry Christmas on behalf of the Church Council and the disciples at Epiphany. I thought about how the staff works in cooperation with each other to make every ministry program the very best it can be. I thought of the way information is shared, of side meetings that help each of us work more efficiently. We end each staff meeting with prayer requests. We list names of those who need prayer from our personal lives. It is also common that staff members add ministry programs such as the Stewardship Committee and its annual campaign, the Drama Team as it prepares for the Children’s musical, the planning for an up-coming youth program, and the Adopt-a-Family Christmas program. I thought of the staff’s theology (spoken or unspoken) that when one “wins” we all win.
    At times I have been accused of being extremely competitive. I do not like to lose or to do a sloppy job. But when all is said and done, a theology of cooperation beats a theology of competition every time. What do you think?
Pastor Pete

Its All In The Verbs

2011-11-29T05:21:00.001-08:00

    Over the years, I learned to listen very closely to the language used by an individual who sought me out for counseling. In particular, I listened for the tense of the verbs the individual used when describing an incident that had caused him or her a great deal of pain. When the individual used past tense verbs, I knew that individual was stuck in the past. For example, if the individual continually said, “I should have done ...,” or “I should have said ...” I knew that individual was locked into what had happen. The pain and the anger of the past was as intense today as it was when the incident occurred. On the other hand, if the individual used future tense verbs, I knew that healing was occurring and that individual was moving beyond the painful incident. For example, if the individual said, “The next time I will do ....” or “The next time I will say...”, I knew the pain and hurt of the past was being or would be replaced by a new and healthy future. The tense of the verbs an individual used was key in understanding where that individual stood in dealing with hurt and pain in the past.
    Congregations are large corporate individuals. Each congregations has its own unique personality and temperament. Like individuals, congregational language indicates where that congregation is in its faith journey. Therefore, I listen carefully to the language congregational members use to describe their congregation’s present state of mind and soul. Following is an example of the verb tense used by the disciples at Epiphany to describe our congregation this Thanksgiving season.
    On the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, Joyce worshiped at Epiphany and then enjoyed a piece of pecan pie at Piefest. She has been to Epiphany several times over the last year and has gotten to recognize many faces and learn some names. Epiphany’s members have been very gracious in welcoming my wife. Each time she has come to Epiphany, many have thanked her for letting me share and be a partner in Epiphany’s ministry. The comments of Epiphany’s disciples are a heartfelt expression of gratitude.
    On Thanksgiving Day, Joyce and I talked about the worship service, the sermon, Piefest, and the conversations she had with many of our members. In those conversation she said, “There was a difference in last night’s welcoming and appreciation. Every conversation that had a thank you in it talked about the last year with past tense verbs. For example, ‘We were in bad shape’ or ‘We needed help’.” When present tense verbs were used, they always referred to “how good things are at Epiphany.” When future tense verbs were used, they always referred to what we are going to do.
    One of my great joys is that Epiphany is not stuck in the past. Oh, I’m sure some hurtful memories will raise their ugly heads now and then but I am also sure that the present and future tense verbs indicate that we are going to grow, we are going to be faithful when we love Jesus by serving others, and that we will follow wherever the Spirit leads indicating the positive spiritual state of Epiphany. This was a good Thanksgiving not only for the worship, Piefest, and the turkey on Thanksgiving Day. It was an especially good Thanksgiving for the gift of future tense verbs used as we describe where Epiphany is on its faith journey as it loves Jesus by serving others.
Pastor Pete

Just For Fun

2011-11-22T04:49:00.001-08:00

    Normally, my blogs have been serious. Through them I have shared my thoughts about Epiphany. I explained the theory behind my strategies, pointed out current and future challenges, and described the issues in calling a new senior pastor. My blogs have the purpose to inform and to create conversation between you and me. In contrast, this blog is JUST FOR FUN.
    I read in the Cincinnati Enquirer that Cincinnati’s Symphony Orchestra now has a tweeting section for those who want to tweet during an evening’s concert. Tweeters communicate their impressions of the musicians and comment on the conductor’s style. According to the Enquirer, tweeters of all ages are attending the symphony.
    After reading the article, I said to Joyce, “Joyce, what would you think if we had a tweeting section at Epiphany during worship?” I thought the Epistle side of the sanctuary (the right side facing the altar) in the far back on the riser could be the tweeting section. The rules are; 1. tweets needed to be mostly positive, 2. tweets are sent to family or friends in the same section so the tweeter can make sure the receivers heard the sermon comment the sender wanted them to hear, 3. tweets are sent to friends not at church but should hear this sermon.
    The same set-up would apply to the contemporary service with the same rules. Playing along with this idea, imagine the fun the assisting ministers and praise band members could have sitting through the sermon the second time tweeting warnings that the sermon’s punch line is coming next. We could even set up tweets between the preacher and the congregation to create an interactive sermon. (By the way, some churches already have interactive sermons using tweet technology.)
    To continue JUST FOR FUN, I had a conversation with my son just before the stewardship campaign started. We talked about fund raising in the church. I joked that the radio broadcasts of the Bengals have numerous paying sponsors for different parts of the game. For example, there is the Heinz (catsup) red zone when the Bengals are 20 or less yards from their opponent’s goal line. My son and I mused what it would be like to have sponsors for various parts of the worship service. For example, The Confession is brought to you by Kleenex, The Sermon by Verizon (can you hear me now?), The Prayer Of The Church by Fidelity’s green line to keep you on track, and Communion by Panera Bread.   I wonder what we would charge each of these sponsors to be mentioned each week? (By the way, many experts believe the church needs to have many income streams if it hopes to survive financially in the 21st century.)
    On a serious note, I suspect that the music purists grumble at the idea of a tweeting section and religious traditionalists think I am sacrilegious when talking about sponsors for each part of the worship service. But, I applaud the Cincinnati Symphony for not sitting on its hands saying, “Poor us, no one is coming.” Rather, the Symphony is trying to connect its magnificent music to a world wired through instant communications. And, I think it is a good thing that we can laugh (or at least I can laugh) at ourselves. Laughing at ourselves allows us to think outside the box in order to connect the Gospel to a world filled with technologies, symbols, and images that speak to human need.
Pastor Pete

Making Good Better

2011-11-15T07:40:00.000-08:00

While I was at my former church, Good Shepherd, I would hold an all day staff meeting once or twice a year. The purpose of the meeting was to plan for the future. I knew from my reading that such meetings too often talk about what went wrong or at least what did not work as well as the staff had hoped. When a staff emphasizes what went wrong, the staff becomes defensive. Emphasizing past failures is not a good way to set a positive agenda for the future.

In contrast to what the literature portrays as normal, I set the agenda for Good Shepherd’s staff planning meeting to emphasize the positive. I asked the staff to name what went well in their ministry area (ministry lane in Epiphany language). For the first 5 to 10 minutes, there was a reluctance to name successful ministries or parts of a program that went particularly well. Then the dam of false humility opened and the flow of ministry names and specific aspects of those ministries gushed out. Each successful ministry was listed on a board or newsprint pad. Normally, we would have at least 50 ministries or programs in front of us.

Once we had our list of what went well, we went back over the list and asked the question of each ministry, What can we do to make this success even better? If it really worked well what new ideas can be added to enhance what is already good? Since we were working from what was done well no one on the staff was defensive when another staff member offered a new idea or enhancement. In fact, the staff built upon each suggestion.

One of the surprises that comes from this planning strategy was that problem areas were usually addressed and corrected by the suggestion to improve what was already good. Someone might say, But what about this or that? When we went back over the enhancements we made, the this and that were resolved.

I write this blog the week before Thanksgiving. As individuals, and as a church, I think it would be fun to list what has gone well for us over the last year. I stress what went well! For me, it was the support of my wife, Joyce, as I entered a new adventure at Epiphany. It was the acceptance I received as the interim senior pastor from congregational members. It was the quickness of the trust granted to me by the staff. It was the enthusiasm of those who attended my Bible study classes. The list goes on and on.

From my list, I am thinking about additional ways to say thank you to Joyce for her support. I am thinking about what I can do to continue the trust relationship that has been built between you and me. My mind wanders during my morning prayers about future teaching opportunities. All of this is so very positive.

So let me ask, What has gone well for you over the past year? Will the things that went well make it on your thank you list as you celebrate Thanksgiving? And, can your list be included in your daily prayers in such a way that you explore with God ways to make the good things in your life even better?

Pastor Pete

Attributes Of A Senior Pastor

2011-11-08T04:14:00.000-08:00

    I have been asked by a number of people about the call process and the search for a new senior pastor. I have talked with Scott Watamaniuk (chairperson of the Call Committee) about using my blog as a way to answer those questions. I hope the following helps you understand what has and is happening in the call process.
    One way to understand the call process is to recognize that there are basically three types of clergy teams in the church. The first team is baseball. A baseball player primarily plays one position. A baseball player does not have to coordinate his play with the other players on the field; i.e., it does not matter if the third baseman plays on or off the line to the first baseman. A good baseball player functions effectively in a congregation worshiping less than 150 per weekend.
    The second team is doubles tennis. A doubles tennis team is made up of two pastors who are about equal in the skills and abilities. They divide the ministry of the congregation according to their personal likes and dislikes. They easily substitute for each other when required to do so. In doubles tennis, each pastor has to coordinate his or her efforts with the other pastor. A doubles tennis team serve congregations worshiping between 200 and 400 per weekend. When attendance reaches 400 per weekend, growth stops in a congregation led by a double tennis team.
    The third type of team is football. In a football team, the senior pastor is the coach and every other staff member is a position player. The coach is responsible to coordinate the play of the team so the team can achieve the goals of the congregation. Senior pastors who are football coaches lead congregations worshiping more than 400 per weekend.
    Epiphany is searching for a senior pastor who is a football coach! Epiphany’s current worship attendance (between 400-450 per weekend), puts it numerically in the top 4% of ELCA congregations. That means the Synod is looking for senior pastor candidates for Epiphany from about 4% to 5% of ELCA congregations. The Synod may also look for candidates who are excellent doubles tennis players and who are willing and capable of becoming a football coach. The pool of candidates is small.
    There is another element to the call process that needs to be recognized; namely, the current economy. Some prospective candidates do not want to move because they believe they cannot sell their house in this market. Others do not want to move because their spouse is afraid that he or she cannot find a job in our area. These two factors grow a small pool of candidates even smaller.
    The above realities (a future senior pastor needs to be a football coach, be willing to take the risk that his or house will sell, and that a spouse will find a job) is a “perfect storm” effecting Epiphany’s search for a new senior pastor. Despite these challenges, Pastor Ed Williams, who is responsible for finding candidates for Epiphany, has identified two candidates who are willing to talk with our call committee. One has already visited the congregation. The other is coming in another week. As of today, there is a third possibility.
    I write this blog to help you understand what is happening in the call process. Questions? Ask and I will try to answer them.
Pastor Pete

10,000 Hour Rule

2011-11-01T05:15:00.000-07:00

     Malcolm Gladwell, in his book Outliers, describes the 10,000 hour rule. This rule maintains that those who are very successful have spent 10,000 hours in learning or practicing their skills. For example, Dr. Gladwell asserts that the soloist at the symphony practiced 10,000 hours, the musicians in the orchestra practiced 8,000 hours, and music teachers practiced 2,000. To this discussion, Dr. Gladwell asserts that Mozart practice 10,000 hours to hone his musical skills.
    The 10,000 mile rule applies to every area of life. In the computer world, Bill Gates, Steven Jobs, and Bill Joy all had 10,000 hours of practice (experience) with computers before they became icons in the technological age. The best athletes also practiced for hours before they make it to the “big time.”
    Dr. Gladwell concludes that practice is essential to success. If you and I really want to be good at what you do, it takes hours upon hours of practice.
    I am still in the glow of Reformation Sunday with its emphasis on Martin Luther’s interpretation of the Bible and the implications of that interpretation for daily living. We are saved by God’s grace. God has set us free from our dysfunctional behaviors (sin) to love and serve each other. God is a “Mighty Fortress” so we have nothing to fear. We are saved by faith and faith alone. Paraphrasing Jeremiah, these truths are written on my heart.
    Within the glow of the Reformation, I am fully aware that faith is often a paradox. With all of his emphasis on God’s grace, Luther also knew the 10,000 rule of practice in his life and in his writings. Christians were and are to practice their faith on a daily basis. There is not substitute for this practice according Luther and the teachings of the Lutheran Church. Two examples follow:
    Luther taught that Christians should make the sign of the cross when they wake in the morning to remind themselves that they are followers of Jesus. As followers of Jesus, all they say and do throughout the day is to give glory to their Lord. In the evening, Christians make the sign of the cross to remind themselves that they will sleep peacefully with the protection of God. Practice your faith twice a day, Luther taught.
    Luther taught that Christians should recite and meditate daily on the 10 Commandments, The Apostle’s Creed, and the Lord’s Prayer. Using a medical metaphor, the 10 Commandments is the diagnosis identifying our sinful nature. The Creed is the treatment God has for our sinful nature; i.e., Jesus who lived, died, and was raised to that we might have eternal life. And, the Lord’s Prayer is the medication that we take daily. The medication reminds us that God is our Father and the giver of all that we need. (As a side note, Luther’s catechisms follow this format. The catechism begins with the 10 Commandments, followed by the Creed, followed by the Lord’s Prayer.)
    In conclusion, the temptation exists to deny the 10,000 hour rule of practice. We substitute the fallacy that the Mozarts and Jobs of this world were just born with their skills. We make the same assumption that people with great faith just happened to stumble onto their faith. In contrast, Luther is right in teaching that those with great faith not only believe and rely on God’s grace but they also practice that faith by making the sign of the cross, meditating on the 10 Commandments, the Apostle’ Creed, and the Lord’s prayer. According to Luther, practice is an essential part of building our faith.
Pastor Pete

Its Hunting Season

2011-10-25T05:00:00.001-07:00

     My wife, Joyce, has been elected to the office of “Organizer” for a national charitable organization that sends 10 year old girls to summer camp. One of the organizer’s responsibilities is to help state organizations and local chapters recruit new members. As Joyce thought through this responsibility, she joked about the response she would get if she sent each chapter a hunting license. January through March tends to be a low season of activity. In April, girls are selected from recommendation from school nurses according to need. In early summer there is shopping and taking the girls to camp. In the fall, there is fund raising. Therefore, January through March is open season for inviting friends, neighbors, and colleagues to experience the joy and fellowship of this organization at a monthly meeting. I can tell you that we have had many good laughs as we played out endless possibilities of what a hunting license would look like, what words would be on it, and how it would be delivered.
    Playing off a hunting season for this organization, the church is entering its most productive hunting season for sharing the Gospel with those who do not attend worship or belong to a church. Non-members are the most open to accepting an invitation to a church event or worship during the up coming holiday season.
    Evangelism experts maintain that up to 86% of those who attend church for the first time do so because a family member, friend, or colleague invites them to a church event or special worship service. Because the non-member is with a friend, coming to church is not overly threatening. Because a non-member is with a friend, the non-member is not a stranger in the midst of a large group where everyone seems to know everyone else.
    Think for a moment about the special events and worship services the disciples at Epiphany can invite their non-churched friends to experience. In a few weeks, we will have a special Thanksgiving worship to thank the Lord for all the gifts God has given to us. Then there will be the Children's Christmas Musical. And, of course, there is Christmas Eve and Christmas day services. Each event is “hunting season” in which Jesus’ disciples at Epiphany invite those who do not normally worship to experience the joy of Christian fellowship.
    Through this blog, I invite all of you to think about who you can invite to come with you to one or all of the special services to be offered over the next nine weeks. Once you have identified those you can invite, choose one individual or family and extend an invitation. Offer to pick that individual or family up or meet them at the door of the church. Introduce them to your friends at Epiphany. Sit next to them and help them when needed to follow the liturgy. And after the event is over, invite them to another ministry which they might enjoy.
    It may be just a little sacrilegious to suggest the holidays are hunting season for the church. But it is these days that give us the best opportunity to invite those who are not part of the church to experience the joy and benefits of being part of such a faith community. So let me extend to you a hunting license and wish you good hunting as we work together to grow Epiphany spiritually, in community, in outreach, and numerically.
Pastor Pete

What's Next

2011-10-18T05:12:00.000-07:00

    I started writing this blog so that you would know what I was thinking, to test-out thoughts, to create conversations, and to just let you know what was happening. I believe the more open conversation a congregation has, the more its members participate and own the congregation's ministries. So, this is what I am thinking at this point of our partnership.
    I am thinking that we have taken major strides in providing a firm financial foundation in order to provide the financial resources for Epiphany to love Jesus by serving others. I have a little anxiety about the up-coming annual Stewardship Campaign. The last two months laugh at this anxiety. The disciples at Epiphany have responded in extraordinary fashion to meeting our debt obligations. We have pledged over $270,000 to be added to the original Capital Campaign. There is every reason to believe a similar response will occur in the Stewardship Campaign. But I am human and so every now and then I become a little anxious.
    Now that the major work on stewardship is completed, I am turning my attention to the Austin Campus. I have met recently with those who worship at this campus. That meeting lead to a strategy planning session to build-up this campus. Now, we are in the implementation stage of this process.
    As I look at what the Austin Campus is doing, I am reminded of being in Berlin. Joyce and I were walking along Utter den Linden after visiting the Brandenberg Gate. As we walked towards the Berlin Cathedral, we past part of the University of Berlin. The university does not have a campus in one place like Ohio State in Columbus. Rather, the campus was located throughout the entire city. Its motto could very well have been, One university, many different schools, in many different locations. The school of engineering was not near the school of medicine, or the school of the arts, etc. Each school in its own neighborhood had its own flavor to meet the needs of its own students. And yet, it was one school meeting the needs of a diverse student population. I remember thinking, “This is the model for church growth and large congregations in the early part of the 21st century in America.”
    I see the Austin Campus and the Far Hills Campus mirroring the University of Berlin. Austin will primarily minister to those south of Centerville while Far Hills will ministry primarily to those north of Centerville. Each will have it own style to meet the needs of those who regularly attend worship and participate in ministries designed to meet particular needs. But, there will be a common purpose: to love Jesus by serving others. There will be a common administration. There will be resources that can be distributed to both campuses. And, there will be the same commitment to grow Epiphany spiritually, in community, in outreach, and numerically.
    There are things that all of us can do to help the Austin Campus grow. One is to pray for God’s guidance and success for Austin. Another is for Far Hills worshipers to occasional worship at Austin. Another, is to volunteer to help when Austin surveys a local housing development to determine how to best minister to its neighbors.
    I am personally excited to be working with the regular worshipers at Austin. We should have a good and productive time together.
Pastor Pete

Instant Gratification

2011-10-11T03:08:00.000-07:00

    We are entering the second full week in October. In our culture of instant gratification, it is now time to take down the Halloween displays and sell Halloween candy at half price so that we can turn our attention to Christmas. (Remember, Halloween is still three weeks away.) Craft shops like Hobby Lobby already have their Christmas merchandise out. Last year, Home Depot was selling Christmas trees at this time so I need to check if they are on schedule this year. It will not be long until we hear Christmas music wherever we go. I’m sure, Thanksgiving will get lost somewhere in the rush to get to Christmas.
    Instant gratification is not only for the holidays. Last Sunday was my birthday. I deeply appreciated the cards I received before the big day. Those sending them remembered! But I wondered about those who sent cards that arrived the day after my birthday. Could it be that they forgot? Logically, that doesn’t make sense. Neither group sent cards that arrived on the exact day. Perhaps one of the early cards was sent by a person who could not remember the exact day so sent a card hoping it would arrive close to the day. If it was early, that would make it acceptable.
    Instant gratification carries over in every area of life. I want it and I want it NOW. Waiting is hard. I want the Stewardship Campaign to be successfully completed now. I want the new administrative structure to be firmly planted in the life of Epiphany now. I want the planning of Joyce’s and my trip to Jordan and Israel this Christmas to be now.
    I know that I argue with myself with logic. It takes time to discern and test a ministry program. It takes time to to root a new procedure. In one of the books that I read, the author said it can take up to seven years. I know it has taken a year to put together our Christmas trip.
    In my more rational moments, I have a strategy to deal with the impulse for instant gratification. When I am planning something, I ask how long should this take. I try very hard to be realistic. Once I have a realistic date in mind, I apply Murphy’s Law, “Whatever time you set for a project, it will take twice as long.” Since this law is accurate more often than not, I take my realistic time schedule and multiply by 2. Finally, I remember a commentary on Murphy and his Law; namely, Murphy was an optimist. I better allow some more time for the Stewardship Campaign, for the administration system to be implemented and firmly rooted, and for dealing with a trip to the Holy Land that seems to change on a regular basis.
    If you have another strategy for dealing with the impulse for instant gratification, let me know. I would enjoy comparing notes.
Pastor Pete

What Time Is It?

2011-10-04T05:08:00.001-07:00

    Within any congregation, there is a time for change and a time to firmly plant and grow those changes into the life of a congregation. One of the roles of a leader is to know if this is a time of change or a time to firmly plant and grow the changes that have be started.
    For the last eight months, Epiphany has been in the time of change. It has defined a new purpose statement, “To love Jesus by serving others.” Every ministry of Epiphany is guided and evaluated by this purpose.
    Epiphany has discerned God’s vision for the next ten years. A vision defines how a congregation lives out its purpose. As a part of Epiphany’s vision, a new administration system has be established. The new system has four lanes: 1. Outreach to non-members in the Centerville area and around the world. 2. Worship and praise of God, 3. Care of members, and 4. Administration. This system was designed to encourage ministries in the same lane to work together to achieve a common purpose and to provide effective communications to the disciples at Epiphany about its ministries.
    Epiphany has conducted a successful revisiting of the Capital Campaign.   To date, the disciples at Epiphany have pledged an additional $266,500 to address Epiphany’s debt obligations. The success of this program has enabled Epiphany to continue the call process for a new senior pastor.
    Epiphany is in the process of conducting an assertive annual Stewardship Campaign. The minimum goal is to increase annual giving by at least 5% of what is currently being contributed to the ministries of Epiphany.
    Within a month, we will be implementing a new communication system. Instead of The Star published every other month, there will be a weekly newsletter with messages from the pastors, testimonies from disciples, and current news about up coming ministries. This new communication system will be orientated towards e-mail distribution instead of hard copies being sent via the post office. Our new communication director has been working hard on this project.
    All of these changes have occurred while established ministries continue to function; i.e., the observance of Lent, the celebration of Easter, the summer musical, Vacation Bible School, the beginning of Sunday School, the starting of the fall youth programs, weddings, funerals, hospital calling, and much more.
    Change does not last if a congregation and its leaders do not take time to let changes become firmly established. The vision is for 10 years. It will take time for all of its new ministries and changes in existing ministries to be planned and implemented. The new administrative system needs time to become familiar to those managing ministry lanes. Assertive stewardship programs need time to become part of Epiphany’s culture. It is the leader’s responsibility to say, now that we have implemented these changes we need to take time to let them take root so that they can grow strong.
    I celebrate the changes that have occurred in the last eight months at Epiphany. As I look ahead, I will be spending a lot of time working on firmly establishing these changes into the life and ministry of Epiphany. My goal is to have them firmly rooted by the time a new senior pastor arrives to lead Epiphany.
Pastor Pete

Trees and Forests

2011-09-27T04:55:00.000-07:00

    Sometimes I get so caught up in what I am doing that I miss the forest for the trees. Last week was a perfect example of this phenomena.
    For the past month, I have been analyzing Epiphany’s financial condition. I continually asked about loans, mortgages, principal and interest payments, the end date of loans, as well as annual receipts and expenditures. As in all things, the questions I asked determined the answers I received. When I asked different questions, I got different answers. It seemed like all I did was bump into the trees as I tried to figure out the financial future of Epiphany.
    At the conclusion of my analysis, I was certain that Epiphany could not financially afford to call a new senior pastor for at least a year. I remembered the rumors that were circulating last January and February about the demise of Epiphany. I remembered predictions that the Austin Campus would be sold by now. In my heart I knew Epiphany would survive but the question was, How?
    I also had come to the conclusion that there were two game changers in Epiphany’s financial picture. The first was revisiting the Capital Campaign. If we could buy two, three, or four years to fund Epiphany’s debt obligations, we would take a gigantic step in securing Epiphany’s future. The second game changer was a stewardship campaign that would increase giving by a minimum of 5% in 2012. I came to these conclusions while I was still in the trees of daily questions. There was no forest to be seen.
    On September 18, the disciples of Epiphany pledged an additional $171,098 to the Capital Campaign. Over the next week, additional pledges grew the total of the campaign to $250,000. I have to go back to my analyzing to determine how many years we have bought to secure our financial future. There is only good news awaiting in this analysis.
    Even with a new analysis, I am still in the trees. One challenge has been met. One problem has been managed. The immediate affect of the increase in pledged giving enabled the Council to vote to continue the search for a new senior pastor. The Call Committee is ready to interview candidates.
    On Wednesday night, the forest came into view. A participant in my Bible study made an observation about the Council’s vote to proceed with the call process. His observation was: The Council’s vote to proceed with the call sent a strong message of hope. Epiphany is not stuck in the past or the present; rather, Epiphany is moving into the future. All of the trees used to analyze Epiphany’s finances and answer questions about projected giving suddenly blended together to form a healthy forest. I had missed that message of hope and future for a long time when I was trying to navigate the trees of financial challenges. Today I am full of joy and increased energy as look at a forest full of potential.
    On Wednesday, I go back to the trees as the Stewardship Committee plans the fall campaign to begin in October. There will be the trees of analysis, letter writing, recruiting disciples to talk about worship, outreach, care of members, and administration. As the committee navigates these trees, I will try to remember to look up and enjoy the forest named Epiphany Lutheran Church.
Pastor Pete

Epiphany's Report Card

2011-09-20T04:48:00.000-07:00

    Willowcreek Church in Barrington, Illinois is the most studied church in America. What I find fascinating about this church is the way it started. Willowcreek’s pastor, Bill Hybels, knocked on the doors of his congregation’s neighbors six days a week for almost a year. When someone answered the door, he introduced himself and asked, “Have you worshiped recently?” If the neighbor said he or she attended worship, Bill thanked them for their time and encouraged them to keep on worshiping regularly. If the neighbor said no, Bill asked, “Why?” The answers he received had three common themes: 1. Church worship is boring, 2. Sermons are irrelevant, and 3. All they do is ask for money. The first two themes Bill understood and accepted. Worship in many churches is like a funeral dirge; i.e., the tempo in liturgy and hymn singing are overly slow and too many sermons do not connect the scriptures to daily life - they are term papers. The third theme was not immediately comprehensible. Those who worshiped every week were asked to contribute as much as those who were not worshiping. What made the difference? Finally, Bill solved the discrepancy. Those who worshiped weekly had their needs met and those who were absent from worship did not. Those worshiping regularly had pastoral care from the congregation when needed and were encouraged to use their talents and abilities to help their church grow. For those who did not worshiped regularly, care was not extended when needed and they always had to have permission to use their talents and gifts in their church. Asking for financial contributions from those who worshiped regularly was not an issue. Asking for financial contributions once a year from those who did not worship was too much.
    After reading the story of Willowcreek’s origin, I continually monitor the worship services of the congregations I serve. I am continually ask one question of every sermon that I preach, “So what?” If the sermon cannot be used on Monday, it should not be preached on Sunday. And, I consider the annual Stewardship Campaign to be the report card of how well my congregation serves the needs of its worshipers and those outside of its walls.
    I not only monitor worship, sermons, and preaching from a corporate point of view. I monitor them from a personal point of view as well. When we travel, Joyce and I seek out Sunday morning worship wherever we go. After worship we ask, Would we come back next week if we had just moved here? What we are really asking is, Was the worship alive or dead? Is there something we can take home from the sermon? If the answer to these two questions is “yes,” it didn’t matter if we worshiped in the midst of that congregation’s annual stewardship drive. If the answer to these questions were negative, any appeal for money was overbearing.
    For the past month, my mind and time have been occupied with revisiting of the Capital Campaign and the upcoming annual stewardship drive. I can argue that the response to the campaign and drive are essential to Epiphany’s future because they are. I also know that they are the report card on how our worship, preaching, and programming serve the disciples at Epiphany. When Joyce and I filled out our pledge card to the Capital Campaign, we knew we where reporting on our impressions about the vitality of Epiphany. It was easy to pledge because we both believe in Epiphany. In like manner, when you fill out your pledge card in the coming weeks, you are reporting about Epiphany’s worship, sermons, and programming as well.
Pastor Pete

Time defined in chapters

2011-09-13T04:52:00.000-07:00

    I have authored a book on church administration, I write a quarterly newsletter for the Southern Ohio and the West Virginia/Western Maryland Synods, I have led workshops for the rostered leaders of the church, and have consulted with congregations over the past twenty years. One message that I emphasize in all these experiences is that pastors should not think of their tenure in a congregation in terms of chronological time; i.e., a pastor should not think in terms of being in a congregation for five, ten, or fifteen years. Rather, a pastor should think of his or her tenure in terms of chapters; i.e., my first chapter in the church I served for 28 years was to get acquainted with the congregation, my second chapter was to strengthen the adult education program of the congregation, my third chapter was to expand Good Shepherd’s ministry by calling an intern. Thinking of tenure in terms of chapters encourages a pastor not only to define past accomplishments but also encourages thinking about what is coming in the future; i.e., the next chapter was to build a new sanctuary.
    As I drove to the office yesterday morning, I thought about how long I have been at Epiphany. In terms of chronological time, it has been seven months. In chronological terms, in five months my tenure at Epiphany ends. Then, I said to myself, “Self, what are the chapters of your tenure? What chapters have been completed and what is the next chapter that you envision?” Here are my answers.
    The first chapter was to comfort the hurting, clarify reality, and convey hope. (This was the topic of my second blog.)   Even though these three ministries have been addressed, the need to continue comforting, clarifying, and offering hope will be with us for a long time.
    The second chapter has three emphases. The first emphasis began about a month ago when my attention turned to the financial issues facing Epiphany in general and Epiphany’s debt obligation in particular. This second chapter can be called the Stewardship Chapter. For the rest of September, October, and November I will put a great deal of effort into revisiting the Capital Campaign and the annual stewardship campaign. Good responses to these campaigns will have positive ramifications in calling a new senior pastor and restoring a full range of ministry programs to our church.
    Along with the stewardship emphasis, the second chapter will also implement the new administrative structure, reviewing and rewriting job descriptions where necessary, and establishing guidelines so that decisions can be made on the lowest possible administrative level of our organizational structure.
    Finally, in the second chapter, I will begin to work with those who worship at the Austin Campus to build ministry at that site.
    The question then gets to be, What is the third (future) chapter going to be? For me, this chapter is to implement the vision’s worship schedule so that the pastors have time to greet worshipers and to teach Sunday School. The implementation of this schedule will enhance our weekend worship, adult Sunday School, and gathering experiences. This chapter will begin when we have the financial resources to move ahead.
    Thinking in terms of chapters eliminates artificial deadlines created by chronological time. I invite you to think of Epiphany in terms of the chapters of its ministry. This is an exciting way to see where we have been and where we are going.
Pastor Pete

Strengths and Challenges

2011-09-06T03:28:00.000-07:00

    I was asked last Sunday what I saw as the strengths and weakness of Epiphany. In August I gave the following assessment of Epiphany to the Church Council. I share that assessment with you as a way of answering the question.
    I am impressed with the spirit of Epiphany and the effort of its leaders. This is especially true of the Church Council. After January 1, 2011, Council member’s accepted responsibilities for ministries to guarantee their continuation. In addition, a new purpose statement and vision were discerned.
    While they are not widely recognized, many members of Epiphany have also stepped up to help. I am particularly aware of those who worked in children’s ministries, the Sound of Music, and Operation Prom Dress. I am sure that there are many other places volunteers filled in which were not apparent to a newcomer to the congregation.
    I am impressed by the dedication and commitment to Epiphany by the office and program staff. With the loss of three staff members before the schism in January and five staff members after January 1, several ministries lost their staff leadership. Remaining staff members filled these vacancies to ensure ministry continued in Christian education, drama ministry, and youth ministry.
    I am impressed by the decision to keep the Austin Campus as part of Epiphany’s ministry portfolio. As described in Vision 2021, the Austin Campus provides major growth opportunities for Epiphany. For the Austin Campus to be effective in the future, I believe it needs to be re-positioned into a satellite congregation with a diverse ministry portfolio.
    I believe the future for Epiphany is a bright one. There is no reason that Epiphany cannot grow spiritually, in community, in outreach, and numerically. I believe that a competent senior pastor, partnering with the staff and the Council, can lead Epiphany to fulfill Vision 2021.
    The above analysis does not mean that the growth will come easily and that there are no challenges ahead. Challenges must be faced realistically and honestly. There will be financial challenges. With the exodus of 500 members, there was the loss of $415,000 in annual financial contributions. This is the bad financial news. The good news is that giving by those who remained at Epiphany has increase by approximately $100,000 in the first seven months of 2011. The increase in giving indicates that the members of Epiphany are feeling a (new) Spirit and are responding to that Spirit with financial contributions. If I have a worry, it is in the area of finances. My prayer is the increase in financial giving will continue to grow and that we will find a way to lower our annual debt obligation. Lowering our debt obligation is essential to a bright future.
    The second challenge is related to the decrease in financial support and the loss of program staff members. It is wishful thinking that the ministry portfolio of Epiphany will be that of a congregation worshiping 1,100 per weekend within the next three to five years. The challenge will be deciding which ministries receive immediate staff leadership and which will depend upon volunteers for their leadership. If no volunteer leaders emerge, then some ministries will cease to exist.
    Finally, I worry that the new spirit at Epiphany and the peace that we now have will turn into turn into contentment and apathy. Our staff and members are tired because they have worked very hard over the past year(s). The naturally tendency is to sit back and enjoy the peace we now have. I pray that we do not lose our sense of urgency as we plan and implement ministry over he coming year(s).
Pastor Pete

Money And The Meaning Of Life

2011-08-30T05:22:00.001-07:00

    For the past two to three weeks my thinking and time has been dominated by analyzing Epiphany’s financial situation. Some may question why a “spiritual” leader is so involved in the “business” side of the church. Shouldn’t a spiritual leader be involved in Bible study, sermon preparation, and the chaplaincy care of members? This is a good question, so let me answer it.
    Jacob Needleman in his book MONEY AND THE MEANING OF LIFE states that money is how we deal with the challenges of this world. When he leads seminars, he asks the CEOs in front of him to write on a 3x5 card their biggest challenge. The challenge can be business related or personal. On the other side of the card, he asks the CEOs to write how much money it would take to solve their challenge. Nearly every CEO has a dollar figure that would solve his or her problem. It may be money to buy new equipment or a new building for the business. Or, it may be money to get a family member needed health care or a child into the the best school. It is just amazing how the problems of life are dealt with through money.
    I think Needleman is right. Money is a key issue in solving the challenges of the church in general and Epiphany in particular. Epiphany has had a decline in giving since 2006 with the biggest decline at the end of 2010. In January 2011, 500 disciples at Epiphany left the congregation. These 500 disciples contributed annually $415,000 dollars. It hurts when disciples leave a congregation and it hurts the ability to deliver ministry when financial receipts decline by $415,000 in a single month. The question that has dominated my praying and thinking is, How do we manage such a loss in both members and revenue?
    First of all, there is some good news to report; namely, over 200 households have raised their giving levels by over $100,000 since January without being asked to do so. I believe this indicates the new spirit that is at Epiphany. Therefore, I have reason to rejoice and hope in Epiphany’s future. The Holy Spirit is moving among us.
    Second, our debt load is very large, $284,000 annually to be exact. We are very fortunate to have funds in the Capital Campaign to help defray this cost in 2011. If Epiphany is to continue to grow, the Capital Campaign must be strengthen. This means that those who have made pledges to the Campaign need to meet those pledges. It also means that those who did not originally pledge need to consider at least a two year pledge to the campaign. Strengthening the Capital Campaign is a key to calling a new senior pastor and continuing ministry programs.
    Third, there needs to be a very positive response to the fall Stewardship Campaign. The campaign will ask for at least a 5% increase in giving for 2012. For at least two-thirds of the congregation, this increase is $1.00 per week.
    I should add to this blog that Needleman is spiritual. He does not deny the presence of God. He maintains that the downside of money is that it diverts our attention from spiritual realities. In like manner, dealing with money in the church does not deny the reality that God is a vital part of Epiphany and its ministry. Praying, thinking, and dealing with money is, in my opinion, an indication that we take our faith seriously and turn it into action in the world God created. Dealing with money is an affirmation that God has placed us in “the real world” to love Jesus by serving others.
Pastor Pete

Epiphany is better than expected

2011-08-23T05:20:00.001-07:00

    I have been asked many times in the last couple of weeks the following question, “So, how is Epiphany doing?” My answer, stated in a variety of ways, is “Better than expected!” I believed that Epiphany has bottomed out and is moving forward into a positive future. Following are two reasons for my answer.
    First, the time frame used by an individual indicates what is happening inside of him or her. For example, when I was in a counseling session, I listened very carefully to the time frame used by the individual sitting in front of me. If that individual continually said, “I should have ....” I knew that individual was living in the past. That individual was not ready to move away from the anger and hurt caused by some past event. On the other hand, if the individual in front of me continually said, “The next time I will ...” I knew that that individual was looking to the future. The anger and frustration of the past were being replaced by hope and a strategy to make the future bright.
    If you want to know how things are going, listen to the language of the disciples at Epiphany. In February and March, almost all conversations were about what happened in the past. There was a lot of speculation about what should have been done. In these conversations, all that I heard was, “I should have ...”
    Today, the language of the disciples at Epiphany has changed. I hear more and more speculation about the future. I hear questions about the revitalization of ministries and concern about how Epiphany’s ministries will be delivered in the future. In my words, I am now hearing “The next time I will ...” This means that a corner has been turned. I should also add that I am hearing laughter and joking which reflect the change in language at Epiphany.
    Another way of assessing what is happening at Epiphany is to see 2011 as a time of birth in reverse. In the birth process, a woman has her first labor pain followed by a long period without pain. As the time for the delivery of the child approaches, the labor pains increase in intensity and frequency. Eventually, the pain is constant until the child is born. If we reverse the birth process, at the time of loss (a schism is a great loss in the lives of those who live through it) the labor pain is constant. You cannot help but look around a worship service, a Bible study, or a fellowship event and not feel the loss of friends and acquaintances. As time goes on, there are gaps between the pains of loss. At first, a day may pass without pain. After the day passes, the pain returns. Then a week passes without the pain. Then it is a month. I see the time between painful comments increasing as the disciples at Epiphany talk about what they are going to do next. To be sure, a misguided word, a statement without thought can instantly bring back the labor pain of loss but those misguided words and statements are getting further apart. It may be a month, or six months, or a year before the next pain occurs. But, the longer the time between the pain, the more healing is occurring.
    I am not so naive as to believe that the disciples at Epiphany are only going to live in the future from this time forward or that there will never be a labor pain caused by a misspoken word. But as I listen to the language of Epiphany being changed and the gaps between labor pains increasing in length, I can only be positive about the years ahead.
Pastor Pete

A moving experience

2011-08-16T05:07:00.000-07:00

    For twelve days, my wife and our two children plus their spouses traveled to Italy. My son-in-law, who grew up in the Catholic Church, requested that we visit St. Peter’s Basilica. This was a given and we added Sunday Mass to his request. The Mass we attended was held behind the main altar and directly in front of Bernini’s Dove Window. Later that afternoon, we visited San Giovanni in Laterano. This is the Pope’s church. Across the street from San Giovanni are the Scala Santa (sacred stairs) which tradition says Jesus climbed at the time of his trial before Pilate. Pilgrims that come to these stairs must climb them on their knees. Sandwiched between these two churches was a visit to San Clemente, a 12th church build upon the ruins of a 4th century church. Both the “new church” and the old church’s ruins are open to the public. It was quite a Sunday.
    It is our tradition that after sightseeing we gather before dinner and debrief the day. The question always is, “What was the most memorable experience for you?” All four of my children answered in similar fashion. They were caught by the passion and sincerity of those receiving Holy Communion at St. Peter’s, and the tears of pilgrims as they climbed the Scala Santa on their knees.
    I have thought a great deal about my children’s responses to that Sunday. I watch the disciples at Epiphany as they come to the Lord’s Table. I look them in the eye as I hold up the bread and wine and say, “The body and blood of Christ given and shed FOR YOU.” I watch as they return to their seats, bow their heads, and pray. I see the same depth, passion, and sincerity weekly at Epiphany as was present in Rome. So what was different in Rome that made Holy Communion and climbing stairs so special?
    One answer is the setting. St. Peter’s is a radically different setting than the sanctuaries at Austin or Far Hills. Another answer is a change in schedule. Another answer is that the Mass was in Italian, which none of us knew, so we were much more aware of those around us and their response to God’s love experienced through worship and Holy Communion. The common theme in these answers is that the normal routine of Sunday morning at home was changed.
    While writing this blog, I wondered if experiencing Holy Communion in a different light each week would help my children, as well as me, capture what was experienced in Rome. For example, Holy Communion is the assurance of forgiveness of sin; therefore, the first week of the month I will concentrate on God’s assurance of forgiveness. Holy Communion is also about strengthening relationships with the ones that receive the bread and wine before and after me; therefore, the second week of the month I will concentrate on how Holy Communion builds relationships. Holy Communion is the glue that holds a congregation together; therefore, the third week of the month I will concentrate on how Holy Communion glues the disciples at Epiphany together as we collectively witness God’s love to the world. Finally, the worship service has two high points towards which all the other parts of the service point; namely, the reading of the Gospel lesson and the celebration of Holy Communion; therefore, the fourth week of the month I will concentrate on how God comes to me in the Word and then with physical assurance of God’s presence in the bread and wine.
    It was a good visit to Italy. It was one that created a lot of thoughts and reflections.
Pastor Pete

Faith, Hope, And Love

2011-07-19T05:25:00.001-07:00

    I believe it is important to stop and examine what has occurred in the past. This discipline has two purposes. First, it reveals where God has intervened in his world. Second, it lets me evaluate if I am making progress in achieving my goals.
    Last week I began look back at what has happened to Epiphany over the last seven months. As I looked back, I reflected on Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 13:13, “faith, hope, love abide but the greatest of these is love.” In this passage, Paul is gives me a perspective on time and how three time periods builds faith, hope, and love. I believe this passage is a good way to reflect on Epiphany’s recent past and to evaluate today and anticipate tomorrow.
    Faith is built upon past learnings and experiences. Faith identifies where God has been present. We often miss God’s intervention into our world because we do not stop and examine what has happened. In the case of Epiphany, we can see God’s guiding hand over the recent past. In January, the leaders of Epiphany and especially the Church Council regrouped and worked together to enable a hurting congregation to continue to care for its members and to reach out into the Centerville community. In March, Epiphany’s leaders began to think about the way a congregation functions and how to use Epiphany’s administrative structures to maintain and build ministry. In April, the Council tackled the difficult process of defining Epiphany’s purpose. Then, a vision of God’s future was discerned. In May and June, the call process was implemented, a profile of the congregation was written, and a Call Committee was appointed. Who said it couldn’t be done? Would anyone seven months ago said all of this would happen? But looking backward, we see God’s hand in all of it. That is called faith. The more that we can see God’s intervention in the last seven months the stronger our faith will be.
    Hope is the future period in Paul’s famous saying. Without hope there is no reason to continue. Without hope there is only despair. I once read a book of sermons written by a college chaplain. He wrote that students today need hope more than anything else. They need to know that a future exists for them. Well, there is a future for Epiphany, a bright future I might add. If God can accomplish all that has happened in the last seven months, why would we doubt that God can accomplish great things in the next six months, the next year, or the next decade.
    Paul then says, “the greatest of these is love.” Psychiatrists tell us that love is impossible without experiencing it in the past. Because of God’s love in the past, and because of the future God gives, we are able to love today. I believe Epiphany’s strength is because its leaders have love for their fellow disciples and for those who do not belong to our congregation. Over and over again, ministry and love are delivered to those who were hurting spiritually, psychologically, and physically.
    As I discipline myself to stop and examine what has happened in the last seven months, I see all three of Paul’s time periods. I see where God has touched Epiphany, where God is leading Epiphany, and as a result, Epiphany’s ability to love and serve others.
Pastor Pete

Chapter 2

2011-07-12T05:10:00.000-07:00

    For me, ministry is defined by chapters in the life of a congregation and those who serve that congregation. When I think of ministry as chapters it makes it easier to identify where a congregation has been and where it is going in the future. This frame work also explains why my thinking is beginning to change its focus.
    Chapter 1, in our ministry together, has been getting to know you and you getting to know me. It was getting to know names, family connections, and what was on your minds and hearts. It is also getting to know who had influence, how decisions were made, and what were the buttons that should not be pushed.
    By no means is Chapter 1, what I call the Getting To Know You chapter, complete. It takes at least a year for a new pastor to know a congregation and for the congregation to know the new pastor. I still have to experience how Epiphany begins the fall season, how it celebrates Reformation Sunday, what Thanksgiving is like, and what are the traditions surrounding Christmas.
    Now that I am in the middle of the Getting To Know You chapter, my mind is beginning to write the next chapter in our ministry together. For the last two to three weeks my thinking has focused on the administrative structures of Epiphany. I have been thinking about how we communicate with each other and how we can coordinate our efforts so that we live our purpose and achieve our vision. And, I have been thinking about our finances and an annual stewardship campaign. In my mind, the second chapter of our life together is Building An Administrative Structure. This administrative structure has the same importance as any other ministry in Epiphany’s ministry portfolio.
    I think the disciples at Epiphany are also beginning to write their second chapter in our shared ministry. Over the last two or three weeks I have been asked about job descriptions concerning staff members or who is really responsible for this ministry. These questions indicate that you and I are moving from getting to know each other to how can we be effective and accountable in delivering ministry to disciples, to Centerville, and beyond.
    I suspect that the questions that I have been asking also grows out of a concern for the staff. Since January, staff members have assumed responsibilities that go far beyond their job descriptions. The staff’s attitude has been there is something that needs to be done and I will do it without being asked. You are concerned for those who have served us so well in the past and especially in the last six months.
    In the coming chapter, we will be looking at an administrative structure that includes a (re)defining of job descriptions, a coordination of ministries with a common focus, a supervisory element that will encourage evaluation of current ministries, the implementation of new ministries, and oversight for the delivery of ministry.
    Let me add that the purpose of this second chapter is to continue the delivery of relevant ministry that has long been part of Epiphany’s DNA. It is also a way to build, plan, and implement new ministries in an ever changing world. I look forward to the writing of this second chapter with you in our shared ministry together.
Pastor Pete

Whats Happening

2011-07-05T04:12:00.000-07:00

    My mind has been racing for the last few days about what needs to be accomplished over the next two months. For me, the following issues are on my list. Some initial meetings have already been set to address the five issues listed below. Over the summer, I will report to you the progress on these issues.
    First, we are having a discussion in the office about how to best communicate with you the progress that is being made to call a new senior pastor. Should we establish a new blog with entries only when something concrete can be reported? Should we devise special e-mails reporting the work of the Call Committee? If we use a blog or e-mail, what about the households that do not have or use this technology? Should we have a minute temple talk by a member of the Call Committee during the worship services to report progress being made?
    Second, as part of the call process, the Council produced several documents; i.e., a purpose statement, a vision for the next 10 years, a profile of the congregation, and a job description for the new pastor. How do we share these documents with you? What is the best way to communicate the rationale behind the vision concerning worship, education, outreach, fellowship, and a new administrative structure? How can we answer your questions?
    Third, what is the best way to communicate, on a regular basis, what is happening at Epiphany through a newsletter. In small churches, the newsletter reports what has already happened and who did what. In medium size churches, the newsletter lists every ministry program so everyone knows what is happening. In large churches, the newsletter is a weekly publication with a maximum length of four pages. It has a devotional message from the pastor, perhaps a testimonial from one or two members, and highlights one or two ways the congregation is making a difference for its members and in the community. Epiphany is a large church. Does that mean we should replace the bimonthly Star with a weekly newsletter supplemented with the Epiphany news that is sent out to the congregation every Friday? What is the best communication media to distribute the newsletter?
    Fourth, a financial plan needs to be established for the next five years. What are the financial resources needed to call a new senior pastor, maintain and grow our present and future staff, and to implement new ministries? How should the current Capital Campaign and other designated funds be used and when? Will current giving trends continue to grow?
    Fifth, there needs to be a strong and assertive Stewardship Campaign this fall. What should the goals of that campaign be? Should the fall campaign be in addition to a revisiting of the Capital Campaign? This would mean that there will be two request for giving. Can Epiphany accept two campaigns within a one or two month period?
    Added to this list are plans for future teaching, sermon writing and preaching, administrative oversight, and just having some fun with a very dedicated staff. It will be a busy summer for me.
Pastor Pete

Facing Crisis

2011-06-28T04:46:00.000-07:00

    Modern psychology informs us that there are two responses to a crisis. The first response, in the extreme, is total denial. In denial, the crisis which forces a radical change of behavior, is not real. Those who respond to crisis in this way truly believe that the crisis does not exist. No matter what the evidence, the crisis is not real. Denial often occurs during the long illness of a loved one.
    The second response to crisis, in the extreme, is total devastation. In this response, individuals become so overwhelmed by the crisis that they cannot function. The severity of devastation makes it difficult to get out of bed. Individuals have just enough energy to sit in front of a window and stare into empty space. Decisions cannot be made. We label this response depression.
    When a crisis happens, most of us find ourselves somewhere in between total denial and total devastation. We want to deny what is happening to us and at the same time feel overwhelmed by what we know is happening. It is as if we bounce back and forth, like a ping-pong ball, between the two extremes.
    The Gospel offers a third response to crisis. The Gospel never asks any individual to deny the pain and internal suffering that accompanies crisis. The Gospel admits that denial, anger, bargaining with God, depression, and finally acceptance are all part of the normal process of dealing with a crisis. The Gospel never asks us to make believe we are immune from pain and suffering. After all, Jesus wept over the grave of his friend Lazarus at his death in Bethany. Jesus’ example gives us permission to have all of these feelings when we are experiencing crisis. These feelings are not a contradiction to our faith.
    The Gospel’s option to crisis is hope. Hope, in theological terms, is the certainty that something will happen. I am amazed at how many times God reaches into the pit of crisis to lift us up. Psalm 103 reminds us that God “forgives our iniquity, ... redeems our life from the pit, and crowns with steadfast love and mercy.” I am also reminded of the last verse of 1 Corinthians 15, the great resurrection chapter, “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain.” While acknowledging the devastating pain of crisis, we, as Christians, do not allow that pain to overcome us. In the face of crisis, we continue to believe in and do what God has called us to do.
    I write this blog as we prepare for the funeral of Kay Wean. Kay was truly a saint at Epiphany. Her death is just one of the crises Epiphany has had to face in the recent past. There will be some who will say we should just move on as if nothing has happened (denial). There will be others who will be paralyzed by Kay’s death (devastation). But then there is the Gospel with its certainty of resurrection to eternal life. There is the book of Revelation which offers hope of life in heaven without pain or suffering. Finally, there is the admonishment that in the face of mourning the death of a saint we can continue to do what God has called us to do. We who claim Jesus as Lord know that our options are not limited to denial or devastation. Rather, we have the option of hope that allows - encourages - us to continue to do what we were called to do.
Pastor Pete

Calling A New Senior Pastor

2011-06-21T04:53:00.000-07:00

    Calling a new senior pastor is like building a house. When you build a house you hire an architect to design the house. Once you decide what type of house you want, you hire a general contractor to build the house. Construction starts with digging the basement. Then, you wait for the footers to be poured, the basement walls built upon the footers, and finally the basement slab is poured. Then you wait for the carpenters to put on the decking, build walls with 2x4 studs, and put the the trusses up for the roof. Then you wait for the electricians to pull the wires and the plumbers to install pipes. Then you wait for workers to hang drywall. Then you wait for the taping of the drywall. Then you wait for the ceilings and walls to be painted. Then you wait for the cabinets to be hung, and the finishing carpenters to put up moulding. All of this can be slowed down by inspections. Finally, you get a permit of occupancy - no more waiting.
    In the calling of a senior pastor, the architect is the Church Council. The Council determines what attributes the new senior pastor needs to have. Then it draws up a congregational profile and a vision describing what Epiphany will look like 10 years from now. The Council has worked on these plans and hopefully they will be given to the Call Committee by its June 30th meeting.
    The call committee serves as the general contractor in this process. It receives the plans from the Church Council and discusses them. The Committee may even ask for some clarification from the Council. It should be noted that the Call Committee has had its initial meeting with Pastor Ed Williams, the bishop’s assistant who will oversee the call process for the Synod.
    While all of this is occurring, Pastor Williams has been looking for likely candidates to be senior pastor at Epiphany. The Bishop has asked him to gather information on senior pastors and associate pastors serving congregation worshiping 700+ per weekend.
    The Call Committee contacts Pastor Williams and gives him the congregation’s profile and vision. Pastor Williams takes that material and compares it with potential candidate information. In this process, Pastor Williams looks for possible matches.
    At this point the Call Committee waits for Pastor Williams to identify potential candidates. When Pastor Williams identifies potential candidates, he has to contact their bishop and ask for permission to talk to those candidates about coming to Epiphany. There may be some more waiting for bishops to respond to inquiries about candidates.
    If a bishop gives permission to contact a candidate and the candidate is willing to consider a call to Epiphany, the Call Committee contacts the candidate. If the initial contact goes well, the Call Committee may visit the candidate at his or her church. The Committee may invite the candidate to Centerville. Or, the Committee may choose a different strategy to discern if the potential candidate and Epiphany will be a good match for each other. All of this takes time and waiting.
    In this process, there will be times when it looks like a lot is happening just as there are times it appears the builders of a house are making great progress. At other times, it will seem as if nothing is happening. When it seems as if nothing is happening, we will have to remind ourselves that the Synod and the Call Committee are doing their job to bring a new senior pastor to Epiphany.
Pastor Pete

Raising Children Today

2011-06-14T04:40:00.000-07:00

    I once said to my mother, “You had an easier time raising me than I had raising my daughter Amy and son Pete.” My mother looked at me as if I was crazy. To put my statement and her response into context, my mother had worn a valley in the sidewalk between our apartment house and the elementary school that I attended. She was on a first name basis with the principal of my school. It was as if she and the principal had an on going coffee hour to discuss my behavior. How could I possibly suggest that I had a more difficult challenge than she did?
    What prompted my comment was the fact that when I was a boy I heard the same message wherever I went. My pastor preached the same morals and behaviors as my school teachers and my parents’ friends. Right was right and wrong was wrong. There were no gray areas in morals, behaviors, or life. In contrast, as Joyce and I raised our children there were a lot of gray areas. What I preached from the pulpit and Joyce taught when she debriefed the children after school was not repeated by my children’s teachers. I remember shaking my head over a required high school course on family living in our school district. Every teacher who taught that course had an unhappy or broken marriage. My children had close friends whose parents totally disagreed with our values. My children lived in a world where there was no common agreement among adults as to what was right and wrong. To my way of thinking, this made raising children a much more difficult task.
    I often think about how much more difficult it is for my children to raise our grandchildren. Our society has no common value system; each family decides what is right or wrong for themselves. The outside pressures, such as organized sports and the drive for success, are overwhelming today. Added to this is easy access to the internet and all that it has to offer including things that Joyce and I would call immoral. In my more rational moments, I believe my children have a much more difficult time raising their children than Joyce and I had raising them.
    The above reflection comes after witnessing our granddaughter, Megan, and grandson, Ben, being confirmed this spring. In spite of all outside pressures to do otherwise, these two teenagers attended confirmation classes, studied and learned the faith, and were willing to stand in front of a congregation and say, “I believe.” As a grandfather, not a pastor, I was very proud and pleased with this milestone of faith.
    As I sit and write this blog, I want to say well done to every parent who has had the courage to say faith is important, so important that we will miss that soccer game or little league game because we are going to worship God this morning. I want to say well done to every parent and grandparent who makes the effort to say grace at meals because you are teaching the faith when you bow your heads and fold your hands. I want to say well done to every parent and grandparent because you are a role model when you talk about giving of your time and financial resources as a response to what God has already given to you through Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection.
    Finally, it is a humbling experience to watch your grandchildren being confirmed. I believe every parent of a confirmand at Epiphany knows the same humbling and joyful feeling that comes when hands are laid upon a confirmand’s heard. So today, my hat is off to every parent and grandparent who has cared enough to witness to their faith in a world that offers so many options to what God gives to us in his grace and love.
Pastor Pete

Psalm 8 paraphrased

2011-06-07T16:22:00.000-07:00

I spend each morning reciting psalms, reading scripture, and praying. Every now and then I am moved to paraphrase a psalm. Since Pentecost is this coming weekend, it seems appropriate to think about God's gift to us; namely, the church. Following is my interpretation of Psalm 8 written by a pastor in the 21st century.

O LORD, our LORD, how majestic is your name in all the earth!

You have set your glory above the heavens. Out of the mouths of adult and children choirs your praise is chanted. You have founded the church to silence those who say that you do not exist.

When I look at your people, the work of your fingers, the congregations that you have established; what are pastors and laity that you are mindful of them, your servants that you care for them? Yet you have made them a little less than God, and crowned them with faithfulness and sainthood. You have given them dominion over your purpose and vision; you have put your sacraments and ministry under their administration, and you have made them your story tellers and representatives, to assume Jesus’ ministry to the ends of the earth.

O LORD, our LORD, how majestic is your name in all the earth!

Pastor Pete

Teaching At Epiphany

2011-05-30T18:15:00.000-07:00

    When I taught new member classes, I shared with class participants how to determine if they would enjoy and contribute to their new congregation. I asked participants to list all the ministries that they liked about their previous congregation. For example, worship, preaching, Sunday School, men’s group, mission trips, etc. (If this was the first time participants were joining a congregation, I asked them to list their expectations for the congregation.) Participants then prioritize their list. If their new congregation had at least three ministries that matched a participant's top five ministries, that participant would probably be happy and contribute to their new congregation. If their new congregation had two or less ministries in the participant’s top five ministries, that participant would probably be inactive or leave the congregation in a short period of time. The goal of this exercise was to increase the potential that a new member would be happy with the congregation he or she was joining.
    I believe this model is applicable when it comes to determining if an individual will be happy with a new work experience. When I accepted your invitation to serve as interim senior pastor, I instinctively listed what I believe are my spiritual gifts and how those gifts matched Epiphany’s needs. (I believe if I could share my spiritual gifts with a Epiphany, I probably would be happy in my ministry.) The top five ministries that I most enjoy are: 1. teaching: Bible, the Christian faith, and administration principles 2. working with a congregation who wants to grow through relevant ministries, 3. working with lay leaders to build a strong financial base so resources are available for ministry, 4. training and equipping lay leaders to be the deliverers of ministry, and 5. engaging in lively discussions (not arguments) on biblical, systematic, and historical theologies.
    I have been asked many times if I am enjoying Epiphany. My answer is yes because I have worked with a competent staff and lay leaders (administration). I have celebrated the difference Epiphany’s ministries have made in the lives of its disciples and non-members (relevant ministries). During this summer, I plan to work with lay members in the areas of finance and stewardship (financial stability). With all of this, I miss teaching Bible. Therefore, I plan to teach Bible at Epiphany this summer.
    My summer course will be HOW TO READ THE BIBLE. This is a five week course with the following topics: 1.Reading the Bible As A Newspaper, 2. Reading the Old Testament As Stages Of Life, 3. Reading the New Testament As Niche Marketing, 4. Defining The Major Teachings Of The Scriptures, and 5. Meeting Five Biblical Leaders. This course will be offered either on Wednesday afternoons (2:00 p.m.) or Wednesday evenings (6:30 p.m.) beginning on June 22 and ending on July 20. Sign up sheets will be at both campuses for the next two weeks. For the course to be offered there must be at least 10 participants. If you can attend both times, put your name on both lists. We will offer child care if at least five children will use this service. As of now, the courses will be held at the Far Hills Campus. The time the class is offered will be announced on Tuesday, June 14.
    I am really looking forward to teaching this class.
Pastor Pete.

The Miracle Of Epiphany

2011-05-24T04:53:00.000-07:00

    After a flurry of e-mails concerning Epiphany’s vision, I sat back and thought what a miraculous church I am fortunate enough to serve. Since I arrived, Epiphany has called a new youth director, Erin Haligowski, who begins her work on June 16. The Church Council has formed a new purpose statement, “We love Jesus by serving others.” (From the e-mails I have received, the Church Council has hit a home run.) Within a week or two, the Council will have an ambitious vision of what Epiphany will be like in the year 2021. A Call Committee has been appointed and members are being contacted about their first meeting. We are a vote away from hiring a new Coordinator of Communications. Finally, the Council is beginning to look at the financial challenges that will face Epiphany over the next three to four years.
    Psalm 46 is one of my favorite psalms. As I look at the list above, I think of the words in verses 2-3, “Therefore we will not fear though the world should change, though the mountains quake in the heart of the sea; though the waters roar and foam, though the mountains quake with its tumult.” The world has changed for Epiphany and I thank you for letting me be part of it.
    As I thought about how to share my feelings about the changes cited above, I thought of the last verse in Paul’s famous love chapter of 1 Corinthians, “...faith, hope, love abide but the greatest of these is love.” (1 Cor. 13:13)
    I interpret this verse as having three time references. Faith, for example, represents the past. Faith is built on past experiences that affirm God’s presence in both joyous celebrations and in the deepest of valleys. The way a church or an individual builds faith is to identify the places God has intervened in the church’s ministry or in holding up a “wounded” believer. I believe God’s presence is apparent in what has happened in the last four months.
    On the other end of the spectrum, hope represents the future. (The theological definition of hope is the certainty that tomorrow can be different than today.) I have watched Council members pray and seek out God’s vision, God’s tomorrow, for Epiphany. The statement that is being produced is evidence of God’s guiding hand. Proverbs 29:18 states “where there is no vision the people perish.” (King James Version). The Council has worked hard to discern God’s vision. This is a very positive sign of new life and vitality.
    When there is a past that reveals God’s presence in life, and when there is a vision that gives hope for the future, the end result is that love can thrive in the present. Because we know that God has been with us, and because we know we are pursuing God’s vision, we have the strength and courage to be able to love today. Because we have a past and a future, we can love Jesus by serving others in the present.
    I can give you a number of organizational theories about why Epiphany has achieved so much in such a short period of time. But, what I really want to say is that without the guiding hand of God, none of what has happened really makes any sense to me. So, thank you Epiphany for letting me part of your ministry and to see first hand how God works in, through, and under God’s people.
Pastor Pete

Epiphany's Personality

2011-05-17T04:37:00.000-07:00

    Congregations, like individuals, have their own distinct personality. Organizational literature maintains that a congregation's personality can be described as “power,” “achievement,” or “affiliation.” Seldom, if ever, is a congregation exclusively one of these personality types. It is normal for a congregation to be 60% or 70% of one personality type but still have some of the traits of the other two types. The question is, “How do we describe Epiphany’s personality to a visitor on Sunday morning, to an individual considering becoming a disciple at Epiphany, or to a perspective senior pastor?”
    Power congregations emphasize tradition, clear lines of authority, and well established procedures that must be followed. In power congregations, there is the right way, the wrong way, and our way. Power congregation embrace “top down” thinking, planning, and implementing of ministry vision and strategies.
    A large congregation needs the “power” personality trait. Without this trait, chaos and frustration reign. A congregation will not grow beyond 700 average worship attendance if it does not pay close attention to its organizational structures; i.e., who has responsibility and authority to make decisions, and how are those who deliver ministry held accountable.
    Achievement congregations emphasize results. What is important is that a need is identified and a strategy to meet that need is developed and implemented. There is a tendency to belittle or ignore procedures, organizational structure, and accountability. The rationale is that a need was met so what is the problem. In extreme achievement congregations, members are “lone rangers” doing their own thing.
    Congregations need achievement personality traits. They need to encourage those with ambition to step out and deliver ministry in a timely fashion. Achievement congregations challenge traditions and procedures that inhibit ministry in an ever changing world.
    Affiliation congregations emphasize relationships and social networking. They place a high priority on administrative structures that encourage everyone to participate in the decision making process. The actual decision made at a committee meeting is secondary to all committee members sharing their thoughts. These congregations stress relationship building; i.e., “knowing” everyone in the room. Affiliation congregations are quick to point out that when people know and work together their faith is affected in a positive manner.
    Congregations need affiliation personality traits. Without affiliation they would be very cold places. Words like “warm,” “friendly,” “caring,” and “supportive” would be absent.
    From my observation, Epiphany has all three personality traits to one degree or another. But, for you, which is the dominant trait? One way to answer that question is to draw a circle which is divided into three parts. One part is “power,” one is “achievement,” and the last is “affiliation.” What percentage of the circle is power for you, what percentage achievement, and what percentage is affiliation? When you assign a percentage to each part of the circle, you have defined Epiphany’s personality as you understand it.
Pastor Pete

What Is Happening Now

2011-05-10T07:16:00.000-07:00

There is a belief in every human being and organization that if I, or we, know something everyone knows it as well. When we make a decision or complete a task, we assume that everyone knows about the decision and that the task is completed. This belief is in every relationship; i.e., between friends, spouses, parents and children, bosses and employees, and those who worship and work together in a church. I was thinking about this belief driving home on Sunday afternoon. I asked myself, “Self - what do you know that you assume everyone else knows at Epiphany?” I began to make a list which is the subject of this blog.

There are three things happening in the search for a new senior pastor that top my list. First, the Council will meet tonight, Tuesday, May 10, to take a final vote on a new purpose statement for Epiphany. This is the third time the Council will discuss Epiphany’s purpose. The impetus for looking at Epiphany’s purpose is the search for a new senior pastor. After last week’s meeting, the Council defined Epiphany’s purpose as “Epiphany serves Jesus by serving others.” Over the last seven days, some other suggestions have been put on the table. These are “Epiphany loves Jesus by serving others” or “Epiphany honors Jesus by serving others.” In the two previous conversations about Epiphany’s purpose, service is a dominant theme. From personal observation, service is compatible with my impression that Epiphany is a congregation that wants to “give back” because God has given so much to our congregation and its members.

Second, once the Council has voted on Epiphany’s purpose, it will begin the task of describing what Epiphany will look like in the year 2021. Bishop Holloway said such a statement was one of the most important documents that Epiphany can submit to candidates being considered to be the next senior pastor. This vision of the future will guide ministry decision making over the next decade.

Third, nine disciples at Epiphany have accepted a position on the Call Committee. These disciples are Bill Serr, Debbie Derr, Scott Watameniuk, Kirsten Light, Chris Zeihler, Terri Quick, Jan Panning, Wenday Dereix, and Wayne Jansen. The committee will begin its work by filling out a long document describing Epiphany, its ministries, and demographic information about the geographical area Epiphany serves. This document, along with Epiphany’s purpose and vision, will be sent to the Southern Ohio Synod.

If you have questions about the process of calling a senior pastor, please ask. I promise to give you the best answers available when I answer your questions.

Pastor Pete

The Spirit Has Returned

2011-05-03T05:12:00.001-07:00

    I have been told many times that the “Spirit” has returned to Epiphany. This is a very positive statement. But I wonder which Spirit has returned. The scriptures have at least four different perspectives of the Spirit. Lets take a look at these perspectives.
    Psalm 51, the states “Create within me a clean heart and renew a right spirit within me.” Psalm 51 is a penitential psalm. The psalmist repents his or her sin and asks God to be the center of his or her life. When God is the center of life, there is a peace that passes all human understanding. The psalmist no longer struggles over which god to worship, how to determine right from wrong, or which side he or she is on when a fight occurs.
    One interpretation of this psalm is that the writer is seeking personal peace. The psalmist wants the joy of serving the one true God. So I ask, Is the one telling me that the Spirit has returned to Epiphany in the expression of personal peace? If so, that would be a great affirmation of the presence of the Holy Spirit.
    St. John (chapter 14) sees the Holy Spirit as Jesus’ spirit which bonds the disciples together in a united community. In his pastoral prayer (chapter 17), Jesus prays not for the world but for his disciples. For John, the work of the Holy Spirit is to continue the community of believers that Jesus began in his earthly ministry.
    Sometimes I think we talk too much about outreach ministry (if that is possible) and not enough about ministry to the disciples at Epiphany. I had dinner with the Young At Heart Group last Sunday. The laughter and the fun present at that meal was clear evidence of a community where disciples at Epiphany care for one another. I think of the receptionists in the gathering space who inquire about the well being of others and the congregation. The list goes on. So I ask, Is the one in front of me telling me the Spirit has restored a sense of community at Epiphany? If so, that would be a tremendous affirmation of the work of the Holy Spirit.
    St. Luke writes that the Holy Spirit is vocational. Whenever the Holy Spirit is mentioned in Acts, the Spirit is connected to an assignment. The Spirit comes at Pentecost so the disciples can witness in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and the ends of the earth (Rome). The Spirit comes so seven leaders can meet the needs of the Hellenist/Jewish widows in Jerusalem. The Spirit comes to call Paul to Macedonia. For Luke, the Spirit is always connected to mission.
    In my second week at Epiphany, I asked the staff and you to define a theme line for Epiphany. (A theme line is how we want Centerville to identify Epiphany.) From all the answers, I think of Epiphany as a church for those who want to give back because God first gave to them. So I ask, Is the one in front of me telling me the Spirit has brought back or created a new sense of mission at Epiphany? If so, that would be a tremendous affirmation of the work of the Holy Spirit.
    St. Paul has yet another interpretation of the Holy Spirit which he described by identifying the spiritual gift(s) Christians receive at baptism. When each disciple shares his or her gift(s) with the other disciples, the church is complete. Romans 12, 1 Corinthians 12, and Ephesians 4 list some of the spiritual gifts.
    I have seen the sharing of gifts from those who serve the greater Centerville area in the name of Jesus to those who volunteer their gifts within the walls of Epiphany. So I ask, Is the one in front of me saying the spirit of volunteering has returned to Epiphany? If so, that would be a tremendous affirmation of the work of the Holy Spirit.
    So let me ask, Has the Spirit returned to Epiphany for you? If so, in what expression? Is it in a joy of wanting to come to church? Is it in a sense of experiencing a caring community? Is it in the desire to become involved in a particular ministry (mission)? Or, is it in the form of wanting to volunteer your spiritual gift?
Pastor Pete

2011-04-26T04:16:00.000-07:00

    Last Wednesday, April 20, I was the program at the Council of Elders (a senior’s ministry). My responsibility was to answer the questions of those gathered. One of the questions was, “What are the strengths and weaknesses of Epiphany?” If you were asked that question, how would you answer? Following are my answers.
    The first strength that I mentioned was the leadership of the Church Council. Council members are totally dedicated to the current and future ministries of Epiphany. They are open to new ways to deliver ministries to Epiphany’s disciples and to Centerville and beyond. And, they have worked hard to take the high ground in decisions concerning transactions with Living Water.
    Put into context, the strength of the Council is extraordinary. It would have been easy for the Council to “circle the wagons” after January 1 to protect what already existed. In psychological terms, it would have been normal to become passive-aggressive by adopting a “poor us” attitude. But the Council defies “circle the wagons” and “poor us.” Again, using psychological terms, the Council has been assertive in facing current challenges and future opportunities. This assertiveness, to me, is a great strength.
    A second strength is the program staff. Enough cannot be said about the dedication of Pastor Sara, Ken Proehl, Cindy Dahlman, Jane Lane, Dick Lane, Andy Addy, Megan Rund, Heather Phillips, and April Barrett. Each has provided leadership in their areas of responsibilities. When I first arrived, I would not have been surprised to find a staff that felt beaten down but this was not the case. I acknowledge the great effort put forth by these leaders as I hope you do.
    A third strength is the creativity and enthusiasm of Epiphany’s laity. It feels to me like permission has been given for members to become creative and excited about ministry. Three examples are: the benefit for Kay Wean, Operation Prom Dress, and the Easter Picnic. Many have said to me “the old spirit has returned to our church.” I have thoroughly enjoyed the laughter, joking, and bantering that occurs in the gathering space and around the building.
    Now, what about the weaknesses? I don’t see weaknesses. What I see are great challenges ahead. The question is, “How will these challenges be met?” The Council is in the process of discerning God’s vision for Epiphany. They will write a document describing what Epiphany will look like in 10 years. The description will include the size of the congregations, the ministries offered, the administrative structure that undergirds ministries, and the program staff needed to deliver ministry. This document will be shared with the congregation and with candidates to be the new senior pastor.
    Another challenge is going to be financial. Epiphany is NOT in a desperate financial situation. On the other hand, it would be foolish to say there are no financial issues. Giving has been strong in the first quarter of the year. We are watching closely what giving will be like in the second quarter. The real test is going to be when the new senior pastor arrives and is drawing a full salary.
    A third challenge is going to be rebuilding the program staff. We have already hired a new youth director. There will need to be a third full-time pastor in the future. The vision document described above will describe the responsibilities of additional staff.
    What would you add to my impressions of Epiphany?
Pastor Pete

Finding A New Pastor

2011-04-19T04:26:00.000-07:00

    Today, I will brief the staff on the process for calling a new senior pastor. As I prepared for this briefing, it occurred to me that all the disciples at Epiphany might like to know the process as well. The process is as follows.
    After the resignation of a (senior) pastor, Bishop Holloway meets with the Church Council. This happened on April 12. At that meeting, the Bishop explained his expectations of Epiphany and of the candidates that will be recommended to become the senior pastor.
    There are three sources for these candidates. The first is from the Bishop’s office. The Bishop, or his assistant - in this case Pastor Ed Williams, will conduct a nation wide search for candidates that seem to match the needs of Epiphany. These candidates are identified through conversations with other bishops, or by the “mobility papers” (a candidate’s self-profile) submitted by pastors looking to move from the churches they presently serve, or from pastors who have contacted the Synod office asking about serving at Epiphany. The names of these candidates are passed on to the Call Committee with recommendations about their skills to lead Epiphany.
    The second source for candidates is from the disciples at Epiphany. Disciples can submit names of pastors they believe could lead Epiphany. Once the Council or Call Committee has received a name, the name will be passed on to the Synod office for comments and a recommendation.
    The third source of candidates is the candidates themselves. A pastor may directly contact Epiphany and asked to be considered. Again, this pastor’s name will be passed on to the Synod office for the Bishop’s comments and recommendation.
    Each candidate will be given a profile of Epiphany. It is the Council’s responsibility to provide a profile describing the demographics of the disciples at Epiphany, the primary area that Epiphany serves, and the ministries that meet the challenges and needs of the area Epiphany serves. Bishop Holloway stressed that the most important document in this profile is a vision of what Epiphany’s ministries will be like in the next ten years.
    The Council is also responsible to appoint a Call Committee. The Bishop recommended the Committee have seven members but the number of those serving can vary slightly. Committee members are to represent the entire discipleship at Epiphany and not a group or ministry area within the congregation. The Bishop also recommended that no former clergy or current staff members be on the Call Committee.
    The responsibilities of the Call Committee are: The Committee will review the mobility papers of candidates to determine which ones they would like to consider as a viable candidate to be senior pastor. They will conduct interviews with possible candidates. These interview can be conference calls, skyping, or whatever other communication media the Committee decides to use. After initial interviews, the Committee chooses a primary candidate. They can visit this candidate on his or her “turf,” listen to the candidate preach and observe the candidate leading worship. Finally, the candidate can be invited to Centerville to meet the Council, assess the area which Epiphany serves, and to lead worship. If all goes well, the Committee recommends the Candidate to the Council. (If all does not go well, the process is repeated with a new set of candidates.)   Finally, the Council submits the name of the candidate to the congregation for its approval to extend a call to the candidate to become the new senior pastor at Epiphany.
Pastor Pete

What's Happening Now

2011-04-12T05:02:00.000-07:00

    There are four significant events that are going to happen in the administrative life of Epiphany within the next week. All four events are in the area of leadership. This week’s blog addresses these events in order to keep you up to date about what is happening at Epiphany.
    Epiphany is a large church and it requires strong leaders to envision and implement its ministry programs, recruit and train volunteers, and to grow ministry. Therefore, the first three events address replacing former leaders.
    Today, Tuesday April 12, the task force responsible to find a new youth director for Epiphany is recommending an offer be extended to one of the candidates it has interviewed. If the Council’s vote is positive, the candidate will be contacted and hopefully will accept the offer. This is very positive news as we begin the process of building on the strong work of those who have kept the youth program alive since its last director left.
    Also today, Bishop Holloway of the Southern Ohio Synod will meet with the Church Council to talk about the process of calling a new senior pastor. After the Bishop’s meeting, a call committee will be appointed and synodical forms will be filled out. These forms will be given to potential candidates as they prayerfully consider entering into a conversation with Epiphany. Throughout the entire process, Epiphany will be working with Pastor Ed Williams, Assistant to the Bishop.
    A week from today, April 19, the Council gathers for its regular monthly meeting. One agenda item is a vote to extend an offer to a pastor to be on the interim team. This pastor will preach twice a month at the Austin Campus, develop ministry programs at the Austin Campus, and help in the chaplaincy care. The goal in calling this pastor is two-fold. First, it is to guarantee that both Austin and Far HIlls have preachers and presiders for the celebration of Holy Communion. Second, the development of ministry at Austin will help this campus grow in worship, study, serving others, and fellowship.
    Finally, the Council will begin practicing a new leadership approach of overseeing Epiphany’s ministries. In large congregations, the Council is responsible for, 1. visioning, 2. setting policies and boundaries, 3. defining the end results of ministries, 4. drafting the annual budget, 5. evaluating the senior pastor, and 6. recommending a new senior pastor when the current senior pastor resigns or retires. The Council is not responsible for the implementation and supervision of daily ministries. Implementation and supervision of daily ministries is the responsibility of the senior pastor. This month, the Council is reducing the allotted time for overseeing daily ministry and increasing the time allocated for a discussion of the purpose of Epiphany. Once the Council has reached consensus on Epiphany’s purpose, it will begin to discern God’s vision for Epiphany over the next ten years. The Council’s consensus around purpose and discerning God’s vision will be used in the conversations Epiphany will have with candidates to be the new senior pastor.
    The votes to invite three people to join Epiphany's staff are important as we move through this transition period. The Council’s reallocation of time from overseeing the daily ministries of Epiphany is of equal if not greater importance. This reallocation will help Epiphany meet the ever changing ministry needs of those who live in an ever changing world.
Pastor Pete

Looking Back To Look Forward

2011-04-05T04:43:00.000-07:00

       On Saturday, April 2, Emlyn Ott, from Trinity Seminary and Dir. of Healthy Congregations, led about 40 disciples at Epiphany in an exercise designed to bring insights to the hurt felt over the events of the last year(s). The exercise asked small groups to identify events in the life of Epiphany in each decade since its founding in 1959. As I listened, I thought of the theme lines that were being formed for Epiphany. (Remember, I talked about theme lines in my last blog.)
    “Epiphany is the church that reaches out” was a common theme line throughout the discussion. As I listened, I remembered George Barna’s research that maintained that up to 80% of a congregation’s neighbors do not know the congregation exists because the congregation did nothing to minister to its neighbors. Epiphany is among the 20% that has avoided the temptation to only serve its disciples. Throughout its history, Epiphany has served disciples and non-disciples of Jesus by sharing the love of God’s son with those inside and outside of its building.
    It would be easy to say that Epiphany should be known as a congregation that reaches out to others. But, in a marketing book that I recently read, the author makes the point that too many congregations tell the world about themselves. In contrast, the author encourages congregations to address the needs of the people they are trying to reach and serve. People will listen when a congregation addresses their needs but will not listen when a congregation begins the conversation by talking about itself. Therefore, I would take the theme line, “Epiphany is the church that reaches out,” and rewrite it as “Epiphany is a church for those who want to give back.” Epiphany is a church that wants to give back in the greater Centerville area; i.e., Operation Prom Dress, The Pantry, Blood Drives, and the Preschool. On a larger scale, it is a church that sponsors the Kairos Prison Ministry. It is a church that provides leadership in the Southern Ohio Synod. And, even on a larger scale, it is a church with mission partners around the world.
    As the small groups discussed Epiphany’s history, the observation was made that Epiphany is a congregation that is resilient. Its resilience is, first and foremost, part of God’s grace. Resilience is also a result of being able to stay focused on Epiphany’s purpose, “Connection Jesus to the world one disciple at a time.” As long as this is the focus of Epiphany, Epiphany’s future is secure.
    I should add, there were two other statements that caught my attention. The first was that “Epiphany is a place were disciples of Jesus work hand in hand while looking to God.” That is a great image as we see ourselves as God’s people working together to achieve God’s purpose for Epiphany. The second statement played on Epiphany’s image of being the triangle church. Could Epiphany’s logo be a triangle (with a cross on the top) with one side labeled “Welcoming,” the second side “Caring,” and the third side “Sharing”?
    Finally, focusing on the positives of Epiphany’s past and current ministries, defining a theme line to reflect how Epiphany wants to be known, and exploring a new logo are all part of the healing process. These discussions take us from the good ministries of the past into the future where God is worshiped, and ample opportunities exist to serve others as a response to what God has already given to Epiphany as the corporate body of Christ and each disciple in Epiphany's membership.
Pastor Pete

Epiphany's Identity

2011-03-29T03:21:00.000-07:00

I had a conversation with a staff member who related a story about someone who asked her where she attended church. Her response was, “Epiphany.” The questioner looked puzzled. The staff member added, “You know, the triangle church.” The other person knew immediately where our staff member attended church.

The conversation above is not unusual. Chris Forbes, in Guerrilla Marketing For Non-Profits, states non-profit as well as for-profit organizations are remembered by their “theme line” more than their names. It is the theme line that immediately brings the organization’s product or service to mind. For example, the theme line “Breakfast of Champions” immediately brings Wheaties to mind! “The cereal that helps lower cholesterol” brings Cheerios to mind.

Theme lines also help a community know a congregation. Good Shepherd Lutheran, Cincinnati, defined itself as, “A place to grow in faith.” This congregation emphasized the five weekly Bible studies and other educational opportunities in its ministry portfolio. It was a church where members and non-members learned scripture and the theology of the church.

Communities can define the theme line for a congregation. For example, I have a pastor friend who served First Lutheran, Bellefontaine. One day my friend was buying gas when a person asked him which church he served. He answered, “First Lutheran.” The questioner looked puzzled, so my friend pointed to the church building. The questioner then said, “Oh, the church that helps people.” The questioner’s response was the theme line the community had given the church because it helped those who needed food and other services in the Bellefontaine area.

For several weeks I have been trying to define a theme line for Epiphany. What is Epiphany’s identity? How is it known by its members and by its staff? One answer is stated above; people in Centerville know Epiphany as “The Triangle Church.” Several weeks ago, I asked the staff, “What would be a good theme line for Epiphany?” Since this question had never been asked before, there was no response. I put a sheet of paper on my office door for the staff to record their theme lines once they had time to think about their answers. Following are the theme lines posted: “The church that serves its community.” There is good reason for this line; i.e., the Pantry and the preschool. “The church that makes a difference.” This line reflects the global outreach of Epiphany as well as its ministries in the local community. “A church that has a passion for people” is another answer. The person who submitted this theme line was thinking of the support Kay Wean has received and the prison ministries that records imprisoned fathers and mothers reading children’s books and then taking the recordings to the prisoner’s children as a way of connecting parent and child. A shorter version of the last theme line is, “A church that cares for people.” Another theme line, “A place where you get connected with God and others” uses a very popular term “connected” to show that people are connected to God and others through worship, study, service, and fellowship. Finally, a shorter version is simple the word “Connected.”

Once a theme line is defined for Epiphany, Epiphany’s disciples can use that line to differentiate Epiphany from other churches. And, we can use it to invite family, friends, and neighbors to join us in worship, study, service, and fellowship.

Join the discussion! What is the theme line you would give to Epiphany? What very short sentence describes the essence of our congregation for you? What does this sentence communicate about Epiphany and what Epiphany does?

Pastor Pete

A Way To Read The Bible

2011-03-22T03:28:00.000-07:00

    I received an e-mail about my sermon delivered the first Sunday of Lent. The sender asked me how I interpreted the scriptural passages that called for the death of every man, woman, and child when Israel was fighting a “holy war” and how I could endorse the church’s abuse of power in the middle ages. I asked permission to share my answer to that e-mail.
                There are four fundamental approaches to interpreting the Bible. 1. Some approach the Bible as revelation. This approach is predominate in the fundamentalist church. In the words of a bumper sticker: God said it, I believe it, that settles it. ELCA Lutherans usually do not read the Bible this way. They usually maintain that the Bible contains the Word of God written by men (some scholars maintain women as well) as God inspired them. These writers use the idiom of their day and their own personal experiences to describe God’s intervention into human history.
                2. Some approach the Bible through its “sitz-en-leben” (its social context). In this approach, the reader tries to determine the social context of a text and then determine the meaning of a text in terms of its context. For example, the social context of a holy war 1,000 years BCE was to kill your enemy and his entire family; i.e., the command given to Saul. This context does not exist today; therefore, such a directive would not be given by God or God’s followers. Sitz-en-leben was the way I was trained in seminary. I think there is great value in this approach. I should add that if this is the only approach used to understand the Bible you will be an expert on Trivial Pursuit but the Bible will have little impact on the way you live today. Connections need to be made between the context of yesterday and the context of today.
                3. Some approach the Bible as a narrative. In this approach, individual passages are not to be isolated from the larger story. It is only when you see the larger story that you can begin to understand what a passage is trying to communicate. This approach was taught in the seminary after I graduated. It draws on the tradition that the books of the Bible are to be read as a whole and not as individual passages. I always try to read a text as part of a larger piece of work.
                4. Some approach the Bible as a book of social justice. This approach is usually labeled “Liberation Theology.” From this perspective, only those passages which call for social justice and condemn injustices such as racism, sexism, etc. are to be read and followed. It seems to me that the mainline Protestant denominations emphasize this approach over the first three mentioned.
                More specifically, I believe the Bible is evolutionary; i.e., God’s people are continually learning more and more about the creator and savior of the world. With this understanding, I would look at the passages that call for the killing of men, women, and children in their context and then compare those passages to the teachings of Jesus and Paul (New Testament).
    I would agree that the church has not always lived up to its ideals. But I would also say, no one else in western civilization established orphanages, hospitals, fed the poor, or championed the disenfranchised until the middle of the 20th century. Here Lutheran theology kicks in – the church is both saint and sinner at the same time.
    In conclusion, I try to use all four approaches when I read a text because all four help me understand what the writer wants to tell me about God, about me, and about what God wants me to do.
Pastor Pete

Emphasize The Positive

2011-03-15T04:25:00.000-07:00

    Charlie Shedd was a marriage counselor. He believed that a couple who was having marital issues could only see the problems in their marriage. The challenge was to get the couple to see what was good in their marriage instead of seeing only problems.
    To meet the challenge of getting a couple to see the good in their marriage, Charlie would have the husband and the wife write separate lists of what irked them in their spouse’s behavior. Composing this list was easy because when you fight your spouse’s faults are right before you. The lists were then shared with the other. Then Charlie would have the couple compose a second list which defined what each liked about their spouse. This was a very difficult list to write. Remember, they were fighting. The couple exchanged lists. Then, each promised to read out loud the list of what they liked about their spouse each day. Charlie’s theorized that a husband or wife could better manage the negatives in marriage if they were constantly reminded of what they liked in their spouse.
    I have begun to compile a list of what I like about Epiphany so when the first frustrating day arrives (and it will) I will be able to read my list of positives to counter balance what is irking me. Following is my list thus far.
    I really like the pride that the disciples of Epiphany and its staff take in their ministry. For example, when I visited the Pantry, its staff beamed as they showed me all that they do to help those in need. I see pride in the assisting ministers and in preparing PowerPoint slides. These examples of pride exude enthusiasm which is contagious.
    Closely connected to pride is the joy of those who serve. This joy indicates responsibilities are well matched with spiritual gifts. Epiphany’s disciples are energized and work many hours because they enjoy what they are doing.
    I really like the willingness to change. In my first week, I noticed that every morning the “guest” parking spots were filled. At staff meeting I asked where are all the “guests?” Guest parking during the week was translated in “staff parking.” We now have several guest parking spots open to make those visiting Monday through Friday feel welcome. The lights over the staircase from the lower to upper levels have been turned on so that Epiphany is a more inviting place. For staff to park in the spots not marked for guests and for all gathering space lights to be on are big things. They indicate we really want Epiphany to grow and thrive.
    Finally, I like the forward thinking of the staff. I have been in conversation on how to create a new structure for the reporting on the budget so Council can see quickly the scope of Epiphany’s ministry. I have had conversations on how to raise Epiphany’s visibility (marketing) in the community. These are internal changes which will enhance the effectiveness of decision making and ministry.
    I am going to continue to add to my list of likes about Epiphany. If you were to compile your own list of likes about Epiphany, what would be on that list?
    Two quick additional thoughts. First, a list of likes about Epiphany can easily be shared with non-members as a way to invite them to come to the Lenten small groups, other ministry programs, and worship. Second, making a list about what you like about your work, your friends, and other activities can make a big difference in what you feel about life.
Pastor Pete

Tradition

2011-03-08T04:36:00.000-08:00

Tradition
    All congregations depend upon tradition in their teaching and decision making. Some congregations readily acknowledge the importance of tradition while others deny its existence. It does not matter whether or not tradition is acknowledged, tradition determines the why and how of teaching and decision making.
    There are three types of traditions in the church and its congregations. The first type is tradition spelled with a capital “T” (Tradition). Tradition, with a capital T, contains the core values of the Christian faith. For example, Tradition for the western (Latin), eastern (Orthodox), and Egyptian (Coptic) churches are stated in the Apostles, Nicene, and Athanasius Creeds; i.e., there is one triune God (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit), Jesus is God’s son who lived, died, and rose again. The Holy Spirit guides and strengthen the church and individual believers. In addition, there are six or seven biblical passages that set the foundation of particular church bodies. For example, Peter proclaims Jesus to be “the Christ” at Caesarea Philippi and Jesus responds, “...you are Peter and upon this rock I build my church...” The Protestant Church believes the rock upon which the church is built is the confession, “you are the Christ” while Roman Catholics believe the rock is Peter, the first pope. Tradition with a capital “T” does not change no matter what the circumstances are.
    The second tradition is tradition spelled with a small “t.” Tradition, with a small “t” defines a congregation’s moral and ethical teachings. Unlike Tradition, the morals and ethics of the church are changeable, but they change very slowly. For example, Jesus changes the moral teaching of the Fifth Commandment, You shall not kill. The commandment forbid physical violence to the point of death. Jesus expands the commandment to include hating another person. In my life time, I have seen the response to divorced people radically change from no divorced person is welcomed in the church to divorced individuals are part of our community. There is usually resistance to the change in moral teachings but eventually that resistance gives way to acceptance.
    The third type of tradition is spelled with a small “t” and ends with an “s.” Traditions, with a small “t” and “s” are expression of congregational piety. For example, the color of hymnal; i.e., in my life-time Lutheran hymnals were black, red, green, and now red again. Some believers sit when they pray, others stand, with the liturgical renewal came a return to kneeling. Tradition with small “t” and “s” is “traditional” or “contemporary” worship. The list goes on forever. This type of “traditions” changes on a daily basis depending upon the circumstances. Unfortunately, most church fights are over traditions.
    As a pastor, I use the three types of traditions in my decision making. There is no flexibility with Tradition, core beliefs. I am willing to stop, listen, learn, pray and maybe even change my mind when it comes to tradition, moral and ethical decisions. Then there is traditions. Here, I am very flexible, or at least I would like to think that I am flexible when it comes to traditions.
    So let me ask you, What is Tradition, the unchangeable, in your faith? What is your tradition, morals and ethics, in your living? And, what are the traditions in your own personal piety? Answering these questions can explain why you feel the way you do over the teaching and decision making of Epiphany, the ELCA, and the church catholic.
Pastor Pete

Rumors and Reality

2011-03-01T04:18:00.001-08:00

    Ever since the vote at the national assembly of the ELCA in 2009, there have been rumors and speculations about how congregations and pastors would respond to the decision reached by the assembly’s voting members. Epiphany was one of the top five on the rumor mill of the Southern Ohio Synod. It was rumored, “The congregation is divided.” “Epiphany would leave the ELCA.” “Epiphany is financially unable to continue ministry.”
    When I told my friends and colleagues that I accepted the call to be Epiphany’s interim senior pastor, their responses were predictable given the rumors. “You’re entering where angels feared to tread.” Condolences were offered. I was told what a great challenge I faced. There were two exceptions to these comments. The first was from my wife, Joyce, who said, “You have to do it.” The second was from a friend, “It will be good for Epiphany and for you.”
    When consultants work with congregations who have had a fight, they address the three “Cs”: 1. Comfort the hurting, 2. Clearly define reality, and 3. Convey hope. During my first week at Epiphany, I watched and listened for the three Cs.
    Comfort the hurting is the first key to returning a congregation to health. Comforting the hurting was already occurring at Epiphany. Epiphany’s disciples openly talked about their anger, frustration, and the feeling of being betrayed. This is healthy. These emotions need to be out in the open. Epiphany's disciples and the staff were and are caring for each other. In putting together the transition team, we will continue this ministry.
    Clearly defining reality is the second key to returning to health. When congregations face a threat to their existence, there are three options for dealing with that threat. The first is to deny it, and the second is to be completely overwhelmed by it. Neither option is healthy. Epiphany is employing the third option; namely, facing the threat caused by some members leaving, managing the challenges caused by this loss, and looking to the future. This third option was evident in the presentations at the annual meeting this past Sunday. Epiphany is managing its finances, paying its bills, and planning its future.
    Hope is the third key to returning to health. Hope has two meanings. First, it means tomorrow can be different than today. Second, hope means “certainty.” For me, the message of hope was delivered when Chad Burton stated that Epiphany would very shortly begin the process of seeking a new senior pastor. Hope was also symbolized in the laughter and joking at the meeting. Healthy congregations laugh.
    In summary, the rumors I heard over the past year negatively overstate what I experienced at Epiphany this past week. Over the last week, I saw comfort for the hurting, clearly defining reality and managing that reality, and signs of hope.
    By the way, on a personal note, the rumor mill had me leaving the ELCA -- I am still here.
Pastor Pete

Great Expectations

2011-02-21T04:21:00.000-08:00

     Consciously or subconsciously, I enter every situation with expectations. I feel joy, happiness, and I am delighted when my expectations are met. I feel sadness, disappointment, and/or betrayal when my expectations are not met. In other words, expectations affect the way I feel about any experience in the past, in the present, and in the future.
    If expectations affect my feelings, it is only fair that I share my expectation of Epiphany and its members as we begin to work together to fulfill Epiphany’s purpose; namely, to connect the world to Jesus, one disciple at a time.
    I expect to treat each of you as a child of God. I also expect that you will treat me as a child of God. Our worth comes from being God’s child. For Christians this means being claimed by God in baptism and strengthened at Jesus’ table, Holy Communion.
    I expect to live out my belief that we are all God’s children through the practice of good manners. Peter Drucker, the authority in business administration and then the authority in administration in non-profit organizations, said; “Good manners are the lubricant of any organization.” I expect to practice good manners in all that I do. I will say “please” and “thank you” when asking for and receiving a response from you. I will be courteous to you in all that we do together.
    I expect to listen and to learn from you. I hope that you will listen and learn from me. No two churches have the same personality or operating procedures. I will spend the beginning of our partnership listening and learning the “Epiphany way.” It is in listening to each other that we can grow to understand each other.
    Finally, I expect transparency in all our dealings with each other. Every group of people with more than two members is a “political group.” The only issue is how do the politics play out in the group. In the congregation I served for 28 years, we had “sunshine” laws; i.e., no secret meetings and no withholding of information from those who do not agree with you. In addition, all meetings had to be structured so that those on every side of an issue had an equal chance to express their opinion.
    So far, I have had only good days at Epiphany. I suspect that is because my expectations have been met or exceeded. I imagine there will be days when I am frustrated and maybe even angry. On those days, I will ask; “So what did you expect?” Sometimes I will be able to dismiss my negative feelings because my expectations were unrealistic. (Unrealistic expectations are my problem.) If my expectations were realistic, then you and I will have to find a way to work together to achieve our common purpose.
    So let me ask; What are your expectation of me? Are they realistic?
Pastor Pete