I usually don't delve into theological debates here as the main focus is to try and provide a glimpse into the everyday life of a Navy chaplain. Those stories alone, many of which can't be told due to confidentiality, could take up many hours relating on a blog. However, this whole Rob Bell/Universalism/Is Hell Real debate is getting old, especially now that the collateral damage is hitting close to home.
For those that don't regularly follow theological debates that rage on the Internet all around you, I'll provide a bit of background. Rob Bell has written a book titled Love Wins that delves into the topic of hell. I haven't personally read the book yet and hadn't really intended to until it came out in paperback. But, picked up a copy today using a gift card so I wouldn't feel too bad about paying for a hard cover book (I stopped buying hard cover new releases while in seminary to cut back costs while I didn't have a steady job). Even before the book hit the shelves this past week people were blowing up the Internet with reviews of the book they hadn't yet read calling him a heretic and all kinds of other nice names we save for the people who rankle our theological leanings. Those who saw him as a spokesman for their theological positions disowned him, etc. Granted, I haven't yet read the book and even once I do I won't bother to post a review, as most people probably could care less what I think of the book.
What bothers me is the reaction. I hadn't really paid much attention to the lead up as I was out in the field serving my Marines and had more important things to worry about. And frankly, you could probably say I still have more pressing problems: an accelerated predeployment schedule, leaving for deployment training this week, getting Easter services prepped before we leave, working out the rough memorial service outline for deployment, counseling Marines until well after dark each day, cleaning the house and car, etc. However, a friend of mine got caught up in this whole hysteria and has paid a pretty steep price. He was a student pastor at a church in NC while attending seminary at Duke. He is in his last semester and was on track to get interviewed for provisional ordination in the Methodist church this month. Sometime during the lead up to the book's release, he wrote a piece for Emergent Village about what he lost and gained when he lost hell. His view of hell and mine are not the same, but that doesn't matter.
After he wrote that piece, he was released from his position as a student pastor. This isn't something that is done by the congregation alone. It takes the work of a senior clergy member, one who is supposed to mentor student pastors as well as provide assignments. I don't doubt that other factors came into play (my friend acknowledges as much). He was going to get a new congregation in less than three months anyways and will graduate from seminary in two months. I am a firm believer in firing pastors when they violate the trust and confidence we place in them as leaders, much the same as why military members suffer dearly when they break the rules. Maybe, it is the wide theological range of beliefs found in my own denomination that makes this so confusing to me. It does make me glad that my denomination allows some wiggle room in our "orthodoxy" to allow theological discussion and growth on a variety of issues. Where was the grace in this process? What about some serious discussions about beliefs before summarily dismissing someone who was leaving anyways? What lesson does that teach the congregation if their beliefs aren't "orthodox?" Now you have a congregation, and apparently a denomination that is afraid to discuss theological issues. I for one am crying out loud, enough already.
Showing posts with label Seminary. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Seminary. Show all posts
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Missing Those Kids
I have been traveling a bit the last few weeks and haven't really thought of posting during that time. Taking in some Georgia Tech football and a Presbytery meeting along with getting the honor of re-enlisting my little brother a few weeks ago. That was a special moment that I will never forget. Each time I get asked to serve as the re-enlisting officer is an honor and privilege, but to do that for a family member is truly amazing.
But none of these excursions are the reason for this post. The trips were all scheduled with the impression that my official orders would be here by now, but budget issues still keep them held on a computer in Millington away from me. I had hoped the movers would have been here this week, but everything stays on hold while politicians get to take a vacation and tell me they are fighting for me. Oh well. Having to at least plan on the possibility that things would have been rolling by now, I had to quit volunteering at a special place right before I headed on three weeks of traveling around and hence the impetus for this post.
For the entire time I was in seminary I volunteered at the UNC Children's Hospital working in the playroom (with the exception of my time there as a pediatric chaplain intern for dual hat issues). I have to admit I probably learned more about theology and being a pastor in those two hours each Monday morning than during the rest of my time in class each week. I never thought I would enjoy the experience as much as I did. I started there to see if I could handle working with suffering children and their parents. I figured if I could handle those situations and seeing seriously ill children I could probably handle anything. And I did see some horrific physical and emotional situations, but after about a month it was less about me and those situations that just being with those kids. I have vivid memories of those kids, their families, my fellow volunteers, the therapists and nurses that I will never forget. It is my hope and prayer that I keep the lessons from all these people with me throughout my life and ministry and use them to guide my theology when I'm not with them each week.
I had the opportunity to look suffering and despair in the eye on a level that many people will never see. We tend to let people suffer in hospitals isolated and alone, especially those who don't have normal support systems in place. I learned just how important it is to just be there. Those kids didn't care who I was or what I looked like or what I did for a living. They just wanted someone there who wasn't going to talk about the illness or injury unless they wanted to. Maybe they needed someone to yell at or take out their frustrations with through Wii boxing. I learned to see beyond the illness and see the person, which was a lot easier than I expected.
They taught me how to suffer with dignity. They made me translate all the theological language I heard throughout the week into the vernacular. They shaped me as a pastor and person without knowing that is what they were doing. I learned how to be present in horrible circumstances. I learned how to listen. I learned how to share. I saw true wisdom first hand. I learned how to laugh. I learned how to play. I learned how to love. I learned how to smile from deep inside. I learned I dominate in air hockey (two losses in three years). I learned resiliency. I learned how to suffer. I learned how to cry. I learned to open my eyes and see the world around me. I learned what the world looks like from 2ft instead of 6ft. I learned how to use a Wii. I learned that nurses are amazing people that don't get enough recognition. I learned more than I can articulate and will continue to glean lessons from people much younger and wiser than I'll ever be. Perhaps most importantly, I learned who I was.
Man, I miss those kids.
But none of these excursions are the reason for this post. The trips were all scheduled with the impression that my official orders would be here by now, but budget issues still keep them held on a computer in Millington away from me. I had hoped the movers would have been here this week, but everything stays on hold while politicians get to take a vacation and tell me they are fighting for me. Oh well. Having to at least plan on the possibility that things would have been rolling by now, I had to quit volunteering at a special place right before I headed on three weeks of traveling around and hence the impetus for this post.
For the entire time I was in seminary I volunteered at the UNC Children's Hospital working in the playroom (with the exception of my time there as a pediatric chaplain intern for dual hat issues). I have to admit I probably learned more about theology and being a pastor in those two hours each Monday morning than during the rest of my time in class each week. I never thought I would enjoy the experience as much as I did. I started there to see if I could handle working with suffering children and their parents. I figured if I could handle those situations and seeing seriously ill children I could probably handle anything. And I did see some horrific physical and emotional situations, but after about a month it was less about me and those situations that just being with those kids. I have vivid memories of those kids, their families, my fellow volunteers, the therapists and nurses that I will never forget. It is my hope and prayer that I keep the lessons from all these people with me throughout my life and ministry and use them to guide my theology when I'm not with them each week.
I had the opportunity to look suffering and despair in the eye on a level that many people will never see. We tend to let people suffer in hospitals isolated and alone, especially those who don't have normal support systems in place. I learned just how important it is to just be there. Those kids didn't care who I was or what I looked like or what I did for a living. They just wanted someone there who wasn't going to talk about the illness or injury unless they wanted to. Maybe they needed someone to yell at or take out their frustrations with through Wii boxing. I learned to see beyond the illness and see the person, which was a lot easier than I expected.
They taught me how to suffer with dignity. They made me translate all the theological language I heard throughout the week into the vernacular. They shaped me as a pastor and person without knowing that is what they were doing. I learned how to be present in horrible circumstances. I learned how to listen. I learned how to share. I saw true wisdom first hand. I learned how to laugh. I learned how to play. I learned how to love. I learned how to smile from deep inside. I learned I dominate in air hockey (two losses in three years). I learned resiliency. I learned how to suffer. I learned how to cry. I learned to open my eyes and see the world around me. I learned what the world looks like from 2ft instead of 6ft. I learned how to use a Wii. I learned that nurses are amazing people that don't get enough recognition. I learned more than I can articulate and will continue to glean lessons from people much younger and wiser than I'll ever be. Perhaps most importantly, I learned who I was.
Man, I miss those kids.
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Worth a Thousand Words
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| Official Navy Photo: Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Andrew Dunlap |
This picture conveys much more than I could ever describe to my fellow classmates over the last three years of seminary. I went to a school with a strong current of pacifism running through a large majority of the student body. That's fine and it really broadened my theological perspective and had made me a better thinker on many lines. But for the life of me, I could never really get my point across that a nation as prosperous as ours and with the immense resources that we possess in material and drive needs a strong military. It was difficult to demonstrate how the military does a great deal more than just send people into harms way. The US Military is also one of if not the largest humanitarian aid organization on this planet. Many pacifists I encounter fail to acknowledge that simple fact and don't even want to discuss the non-military benefits of a strong military.
As a submarine officer, I never had the opportunity to participate in a humanitarian relief mission, but I know of several that occurred during my initial time of service Indonesia after the tsunami and Katrina to name a few. But even in bringing those up it was hard to establish with certain classmates the amazing ability of the military to turn on a dime and switch from military missions to humanitarian ones. I am keeping this photo on my computer to help illustrate the point in as clear a vision as I can. This official Navy photo was taken onboard USS Peleliu as two of 19 helos lifted off for Pakistan to help with the relief efforts following the destruction of catastrophic flooding in that country (reports are saying 15+% of the country is under significant levels of water.)
When you think about what this photo is saying, it is truly amazing. We are diverting valuable resources from a military asset in an area in which the US Military is engaged in two separate countries simultaneously to help another nation. A nation with which we are effectively fighting against as they are offering aid to our enemies in Afghanistan. Pakistan is doing a good job playing both sides of the issue and yet we still send our resources to help the citizens of that nation. Resources that could possibly save American lives in theater are being sent to help civilians of a nation that we don't really know is friend or foe. Only a nation with a strong military can accomplish that type of operation. What is truly amazing is that some in this country have derided us for taking too long to divert these resources.
A strong military is the only way we can rapidly get humanitarian aid where it needs to go, regardless of our other commitments, in a rapid manner. This is especially true in remote areas as seen in the Pakistan floods. The military presence across the globe allows us to do just this. And our servicemen and women gladly do this mission in addition to the other requirements they must still meet as this is additional mission requirements. A peacekeeping force can't react this quick (I haven't heard much about a UN response to the catastrophe.) The US military is the only agency that has been able to respond in a fast manner to help those in need. I just hope that in the future I remember this photo and bring it out to tell the story of why we need a strong military in order to help those in need in every part of the world, even the most remote and desperate areas.
This photo is one of the many reasons I am proud to serve and am looking forward to getting back out there soon.
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Reflecting on Seminary (or Learning How To Wait)
So, the Navy delayed the board that decides my entry into Active Duty or the Reserves leaving me with two more weeks of waiting on where the next chapter of my life takes me. This has provided me with an opportunity to do some things I probably wouldn't have been able to do over the last few weeks. I got to travel to Hawaii to see a good friend get married. The time has allowed me to put quite a dent in the stack of books sitting on my desk that seminary did not afford me the time to read (fiction and military history being the largest categories I am tackling.) I have been working on the house, finally getting to some home improvements I was putting off and also dealing with a bunch of things that happened to break in the last week. Next I head to DC to visit some old roommates and then off to Montreat again this summer but this time I will get to work with college students that are helping out the conference. But more than anything else I have been able to reflect on the last three years and what this time meant for me and my future ministry.
One major thing I have realized in this period of reflection is what seminary taught me and what the three years taught me. Seminary, for the most part, was not where I learned how to articulate my theology or how to engage the world in a theological manner. This is not to say the time was wasted or to discourage others from the process. Seminary provided a great venue for me to learn how to think and write in a completely different manner than I had learned during my engineering studies and my role in the submarine force. I didn't realize I could read or write that much in a week. Not only did I learn how to write in a manner that would fit an academic context, but I also learned in my preaching classes how to write and speak to the context in which I would find myself whatever that would eventually look like. I also learned that there is not singular theology to which we should all follow. I think we all come out of seminary, or even from a particular congregation, with slightly different ways of speaking of God and our encounters with God. The wide variety of reading in seminary showed me that in a stark way as they all have a slightly different take on the subject. But none of these things really helped me to articulate my theology in a way others would understand.
I have to admit that I learned theology outside the confines of classes. There were times in which my fellow students debated what I believed and I learned how to articulate theology to those fluent in the lingo. But I had to work in congregations to learn how to articulate theological themes, which can get quite complex, to those without the vocabulary. Children taught me how to explain those complex themes in powerful ways that we can all understand. My experience with kids shows they understand theology in a deeper and more powerful way than those of us "educated" folks. The way they describe things cuts away the fluff we like to put on those themes. But perhaps the place I really learned about theology was working at a children's hospital for the last three years as a volunteer. They didn't care why I was there, only that I was there with them in that moment. I entered into extreme suffering and extreme joy and learned how to feel comfortable in both emotions and that God is definitely in both of those spaces. I learned that every interaction with another person is a sacred moment and that God is there in all of the relationships that I made with the children and their families. I learned theology in the extremes and in the uncomfortable places of life not in the comfortable place I found myself in the sub force. Now I have to wait and reflect some more before God sends me out to the extremes of life again to learn more theology in a different context and to pass on the lessons I learned over the last three years.
One major thing I have realized in this period of reflection is what seminary taught me and what the three years taught me. Seminary, for the most part, was not where I learned how to articulate my theology or how to engage the world in a theological manner. This is not to say the time was wasted or to discourage others from the process. Seminary provided a great venue for me to learn how to think and write in a completely different manner than I had learned during my engineering studies and my role in the submarine force. I didn't realize I could read or write that much in a week. Not only did I learn how to write in a manner that would fit an academic context, but I also learned in my preaching classes how to write and speak to the context in which I would find myself whatever that would eventually look like. I also learned that there is not singular theology to which we should all follow. I think we all come out of seminary, or even from a particular congregation, with slightly different ways of speaking of God and our encounters with God. The wide variety of reading in seminary showed me that in a stark way as they all have a slightly different take on the subject. But none of these things really helped me to articulate my theology in a way others would understand.
I have to admit that I learned theology outside the confines of classes. There were times in which my fellow students debated what I believed and I learned how to articulate theology to those fluent in the lingo. But I had to work in congregations to learn how to articulate theological themes, which can get quite complex, to those without the vocabulary. Children taught me how to explain those complex themes in powerful ways that we can all understand. My experience with kids shows they understand theology in a deeper and more powerful way than those of us "educated" folks. The way they describe things cuts away the fluff we like to put on those themes. But perhaps the place I really learned about theology was working at a children's hospital for the last three years as a volunteer. They didn't care why I was there, only that I was there with them in that moment. I entered into extreme suffering and extreme joy and learned how to feel comfortable in both emotions and that God is definitely in both of those spaces. I learned that every interaction with another person is a sacred moment and that God is there in all of the relationships that I made with the children and their families. I learned theology in the extremes and in the uncomfortable places of life not in the comfortable place I found myself in the sub force. Now I have to wait and reflect some more before God sends me out to the extremes of life again to learn more theology in a different context and to pass on the lessons I learned over the last three years.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
That Was Loud
So I got to watch the national championship game on Monday night in Cameron Indoor with about 5,000 other Duke students. Needless to say it was pretty amazing and the loudest I have ever heard Cameron. The ability to watch big time college athletics while in seminary was a reason to attend Duke in the first place and I really haven't been disappointed at all in that aspect, especially because I could drive down to Atlanta and watch Georgia Tech in football to get the full fix of sports as Duke hasn't quite gotten there for football yet. The crowd just doesn't get into it yet, but that will come.
It was nice to be on campus when the school I attended competed for and then won a national championship in a major division 1 sport. It was a nice way to go out this year by having an experience that not many people get to witness and participate in. I think maybe they need to kick the alumni out of Cameron a few times a year and fill it with students to completely overwhelm opponents with the crowd noise. At times it was deafening and made me wonder why alumni don't feel the need to cheer and get into the games. Oh well, I guess that happens as we get older.
Congrats Duke and I hope you get there again next year.
It was nice to be on campus when the school I attended competed for and then won a national championship in a major division 1 sport. It was a nice way to go out this year by having an experience that not many people get to witness and participate in. I think maybe they need to kick the alumni out of Cameron a few times a year and fill it with students to completely overwhelm opponents with the crowd noise. At times it was deafening and made me wonder why alumni don't feel the need to cheer and get into the games. Oh well, I guess that happens as we get older.
Congrats Duke and I hope you get there again next year.
Saturday, April 3, 2010
One Step Closer
Seeing how school work has been keeping me quite busy lately, I figured during my night off from school to focus on the Final Four would be a good time for a quick post to update the ordination status. A few weeks ago, I was deemed certified ready for a call. This basically means I have met all the requirements to officially look for a job and to have my resume for the denomination posted online. I still need to find a job in order to get ordained, so there is still more waiting. I have an endorsement from my denomination to enter as an active duty chaplain upon graduation and pending my ordination, so right now I am really just waiting to graduate (4 weeks and 4 papers away) and have the Navy board approve my application. Once that happens, I get to go back to the presbytery and get final approval for ordination, then it is off to wherever the Navy sends me.
Now if I can just find some motivation for school in these last few weeks it will make the wait less frustrating.
Now if I can just find some motivation for school in these last few weeks it will make the wait less frustrating.
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Finally!
I have been fortunate to attend the Duke-UNC basketball game at Cameron Indoor stadium the last three years. One of the benefits of going to grad school at Duke. I can still remember the sheer joy of actually being able to be there the first time two years ago. It was something I had always wanted to see and experience. However, the first two years ended up with Duke on the losing end. This year things pointed to us having a win with Carolina being in a major down year and Duke playing great as of late. Luckily it all worked out the way I had intended and the last game I will probably attend at Cameron, cause I don't think a Chaplain is ever going to wind up with the cash to attend the UNC game. We won 82-50 and here are some photos from the evening.
First, Dickie V crowd surfing before the game
Singler making some of his 25 points
The bonfire afterwards on the main quad
First, Dickie V crowd surfing before the game
Singler making some of his 25 points
The bonfire afterwards on the main quad
Monday, January 11, 2010
The Future Looks Bright
And I am not just talking about my future though I am excited as I begin my last semester of seminary this week. The last three years have flown by, but I digress. I am talking about the future in general. As someone who is specializing in ministry to youth and young adults, the prime age of most in the military, I tend to work with those who will be shaping the policies and daily things in our lives over the next few decades. What I have found interesting is how many people as they get to my age, but mostly those a few decades older seem to think that the younger generation will not live up to their own accomplishments. I haven't been able to see much of a difference on a macro scale that others with more wisdom and age claim. On the micro and individual scale I do meet many younger people that leave a lot to be desired. I have also come to realize that my views may be a bit skewed due to my extensive work with youth and young adults that is long term in nature. But it still doesn't prevent me from defending those who are coming into their own right now. They have changed my life and will soon have that effect on others as they go forth in the world. This weekend showed me that there are many bright spots out there beyond just my own circle of youth and young adults that I work with.
I had the privilege of interviewing a number of high school seniors this weekend for a highly selective scholarship at Georgia Tech. I have never met or heard of any of these students before so they were definitely outside of my circle of youth. And from what I heard from these students, the world is definitely in some pretty good hands. They will not all go to Tech nor will they all get a scholarship there but they each have some great enthusiasm and energy to make their mark on the world and each in a different field and for different reasons. There were a few that humbled me in what they have already accomplished at a young age and just how amazing they are compared to me now, much less when I was back in high school. It was a pleasure to have a vivid reminder of just how amazing the youth that we run into truly are. Sometimes I get used to the wonderful students that I work with and think that I get to work with all the good ones when in fact they are just a sample of the talent in the youth and young adults all around us. Now if I can just figure out a way to make the church understand and tap that talent, I think things would be better not just for the church but for the world in general.
I had the privilege of interviewing a number of high school seniors this weekend for a highly selective scholarship at Georgia Tech. I have never met or heard of any of these students before so they were definitely outside of my circle of youth. And from what I heard from these students, the world is definitely in some pretty good hands. They will not all go to Tech nor will they all get a scholarship there but they each have some great enthusiasm and energy to make their mark on the world and each in a different field and for different reasons. There were a few that humbled me in what they have already accomplished at a young age and just how amazing they are compared to me now, much less when I was back in high school. It was a pleasure to have a vivid reminder of just how amazing the youth that we run into truly are. Sometimes I get used to the wonderful students that I work with and think that I get to work with all the good ones when in fact they are just a sample of the talent in the youth and young adults all around us. Now if I can just figure out a way to make the church understand and tap that talent, I think things would be better not just for the church but for the world in general.
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Time Flies By
It kind of hit me today that I only have one more semester left before finishing this whole seminary thing and I can't believe how fast the last two and a half years have flown by. This also reminded me of how much work towards ordination I need to complete in the next few weeks. I have to fill out the necessary paperwork for three bureaucracies so I can get interviews for them all. And it has to be done in a certain sequence so that it all fits together nicely. Hopefully, by the end of July it will all be done and I will just be waiting for orders of where to start the next phase of my military career.
I am also excited about the future chapter and that makes the necessary pain of all this work easier to bear. I can't wait to get it all done and then get out there as a full Chaplain and see fruits of the last few years of work and lack of income. It is also going to be nice as I get a four day weekend each week because I am only in class Monday-Wednesday next semester. Don't know how I got that lucky, but I won't complain too much. What is even more exciting is that I won't have an internship next semester, so I might actually have a lot of free time to work on this stuff and also to get out and see some of the more out of the way places of NC and also to go visit friends in neighboring states.
I am also excited about the future chapter and that makes the necessary pain of all this work easier to bear. I can't wait to get it all done and then get out there as a full Chaplain and see fruits of the last few years of work and lack of income. It is also going to be nice as I get a four day weekend each week because I am only in class Monday-Wednesday next semester. Don't know how I got that lucky, but I won't complain too much. What is even more exciting is that I won't have an internship next semester, so I might actually have a lot of free time to work on this stuff and also to get out and see some of the more out of the way places of NC and also to go visit friends in neighboring states.
Monday, November 16, 2009
It Finally Hit Me
It took a few days to finally realize that a mentor and friend in this seminary journey to becoming a Chaplain passed away on Saturday morning. David was my Hebrew instructor my first year here and he was only 38. He was jogging like he was wont to do, he lived in my neighborhood before he left to be a missionary Old Testament professor in Brazil, and had a heart attack. He was having issues getting a visa so was in Atlanta preparing and waiting. We had planned to go to a football game on Nov 7th with his two oldest sons, but he and the family went out of town that weekend. I got the call while out at dinner with non-seminary friends and it didn't fully register until tonight.
I really didn't like David the first few weeks of class. He was dead panned and seemed to have no care for us or any sense of humor. I thought about dropping the class or switching sections. Something told me to stick it out. Our class of 20 dwindled to 8. It seemed ominous. Then we got to know him. He was one of the most caring and able teachers I have ever had. He never gave up on me learning Hebrew. I know that had it not been for David I would have thrown in the towel. I literally remember throwing my books and notes a few times that first semester. He loved teaching, loved Hebrew, loved the Old Testament and it showed. He taught me a new way to read the Bible and a new way to preach what I was reading. He stuck with me and kept helping me out, despite all my frustration and complaining. He saw what I didn't. I came to love Hebrew. After that first semester, I made great grades in Hebrew. I even chose to exegete Psalms for my ordination exams and did fairly well. I never would have had the confidence to tackle Hebrew if not for him.
But it wasn't just the Hebrew class that got my respect. He really, deeply cared for each of us and always wanted to make sure we were doing well. I was glad to live down the road from him. I got to know him and his family, he had a wife and 4 wonderful kids. They would occasionally stop by when walking the neighborhood and always would take time to talk with me when we passed each other running in the area. Great people. It makes you realize how fragile this whole life thing really is. I knew that from working in the hospital, but when someone close dies it hits a bit harder.
David, you will be missed and the world is groaning a little without you here. However, you are now talking with the Biblical characters you so loved.
I really didn't like David the first few weeks of class. He was dead panned and seemed to have no care for us or any sense of humor. I thought about dropping the class or switching sections. Something told me to stick it out. Our class of 20 dwindled to 8. It seemed ominous. Then we got to know him. He was one of the most caring and able teachers I have ever had. He never gave up on me learning Hebrew. I know that had it not been for David I would have thrown in the towel. I literally remember throwing my books and notes a few times that first semester. He loved teaching, loved Hebrew, loved the Old Testament and it showed. He taught me a new way to read the Bible and a new way to preach what I was reading. He stuck with me and kept helping me out, despite all my frustration and complaining. He saw what I didn't. I came to love Hebrew. After that first semester, I made great grades in Hebrew. I even chose to exegete Psalms for my ordination exams and did fairly well. I never would have had the confidence to tackle Hebrew if not for him.
But it wasn't just the Hebrew class that got my respect. He really, deeply cared for each of us and always wanted to make sure we were doing well. I was glad to live down the road from him. I got to know him and his family, he had a wife and 4 wonderful kids. They would occasionally stop by when walking the neighborhood and always would take time to talk with me when we passed each other running in the area. Great people. It makes you realize how fragile this whole life thing really is. I knew that from working in the hospital, but when someone close dies it hits a bit harder.
David, you will be missed and the world is groaning a little without you here. However, you are now talking with the Biblical characters you so loved.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Catching Up
Wow, it has been a while since the last post. It was a busy semester that is now done and I am officially 2/3 of the way done with seminary. I am so ready to get back to doing work everyday. I have learned that I am better off doing things than talking about them. At least next semester I get to do Clinical Pastoral Education at a local hospital and that should be a good balance to the talking of the classes. A weird thing happened this semester however. It was my busiest and most difficult semester but I got the best grades so far. I guess that was the submarine training in me coming out as I played up to the competition.
In other things, I am now officially a candidate for ordination as my presbytery approved me last week. Now I just need to actually buckle down and study for the ordination exams coming up in August. If I pass those I am just some paperwork and interviews away from ordination. Oh yeah and I have to find a job, but the Navy paperwork shouldn't be too difficult. I get to head to Quantico at the end of the month for 6 weeks of training by working as a Chaplain U/I with a company of officer candidates at USMC OCS. I am extremely excited about that and actually know a few of the DI's heading there and my dad knows a few of the candidates heading up that way.
But before all that I get to spend time cheering on Georgia Tech at the ACC Baseball tourney that is here in Durham for the next five days. Plus, Duke made the tourney and is in the opposite group so I can cheer for them both. The fun all starts tomorrow at noon. I think we are heading to two games a day including each 8pm game for all 4 days. It is nice getting a 1/2 off discount because of being a student. It is nice to actually get a significant amount of relaxation time this summer that I didn't get last year.
In other things, I am now officially a candidate for ordination as my presbytery approved me last week. Now I just need to actually buckle down and study for the ordination exams coming up in August. If I pass those I am just some paperwork and interviews away from ordination. Oh yeah and I have to find a job, but the Navy paperwork shouldn't be too difficult. I get to head to Quantico at the end of the month for 6 weeks of training by working as a Chaplain U/I with a company of officer candidates at USMC OCS. I am extremely excited about that and actually know a few of the DI's heading there and my dad knows a few of the candidates heading up that way.
But before all that I get to spend time cheering on Georgia Tech at the ACC Baseball tourney that is here in Durham for the next five days. Plus, Duke made the tourney and is in the opposite group so I can cheer for them both. The fun all starts tomorrow at noon. I think we are heading to two games a day including each 8pm game for all 4 days. It is nice getting a 1/2 off discount because of being a student. It is nice to actually get a significant amount of relaxation time this summer that I didn't get last year.
Monday, April 6, 2009
More Evidence that I haven't really left the Navy
When I was in the Navy there were little books floating around full of quotes and other stupid and silly things done by various members of the crew. The wardroom had on as did the Nukes and the forward guys also kept one floating around. My first ship had one in the wardroom that was started upon commissioning and was still around. The second ship needed some coaxing to find and start one upon leaving the shipyard. These things were vital in crew morale as they provided a great outlet for us to immortalize the humorous and to attack the powers that be. As technology developed, so did the format of these logs. Some are now online with the names changed to protect the guilty. Unfortunately, these blogs get shut down from time to time for one reason or another.
As I have postulated before, there are times when I think that seminary is more like the Navy than the Navy, yet again something smacks of Dejavu. A blog has arisen from the life of Duke Divinity School that is absolutely hilarious. This blog is a satire of things that go on in the life of our community and is a necessary outlet for our frustrations. I think the administration is none too happy with the blog. I just hope they understand the power of satire and don't get too heavy handed and try to ferret out the authors. The student body, for the most part, recognizes the benefit of this and it has really got the ear of us all. I leave the link here for you to peruse at your convenience. Like much satire, you may not get it all, but the letter to Coach K should make you laugh regardless.
As I have postulated before, there are times when I think that seminary is more like the Navy than the Navy, yet again something smacks of Dejavu. A blog has arisen from the life of Duke Divinity School that is absolutely hilarious. This blog is a satire of things that go on in the life of our community and is a necessary outlet for our frustrations. I think the administration is none too happy with the blog. I just hope they understand the power of satire and don't get too heavy handed and try to ferret out the authors. The student body, for the most part, recognizes the benefit of this and it has really got the ear of us all. I leave the link here for you to peruse at your convenience. Like much satire, you may not get it all, but the letter to Coach K should make you laugh regardless.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Alternative Spring Break
So I did my first ever mission trip over spring break last week. I had the opportunity to take a group of local college students from my internship to Houma, LA to do some work with Presbyterian Disaster Assistance. I have to admit, the PDA people seem to have the whole operation down to a science. You pay about $20 day for food and lodging in what they call a pod. That is short for laminated corrugated cardboard tents. They did have hot water showers and a dining facility. It was extremely comfortable and was kind of like upscale camping. There were other students at the camp from California, New Jersey, Tennessee and New York. It was great getting to know people from all over the country and that provided a great experience for all of the students from our group.
The work was a bit different. Usually the groups go and do heavy demolition or construction for homeowners that have pretty much exhausted all FEMA options and didn't have any insurance. PDA provides labor and some materials and most importantly sitting with the owners and providing someone to talk with developing a relationship. We didn't do any of the construction work. We helped move elderly individuals back into their apartments at Bayou Towers in Houma.
This building is section 8 housing and the roof blew off during Ike and Gustav and had been closed for the last 7 months. We were busy cleaning with the residents and preparing other rooms for them to return back to. They hadn't seen their rooms until last week so we were there when they returned and that in itself was pretty powerful. Many stories and relationships with the residents came from the experience and I can truly say it was life forming for all involved on a multitude of levels. As for the management and the conditions that we saw in the buildings, I am still trying to wrap my mind around how poorly run the whole building was and the way in which the residents were treated was appalling, but don't quite yet know how to put those things into words.
Now back to studying. Hopefully it won't be a month between posts but it is a crazy semester.
The work was a bit different. Usually the groups go and do heavy demolition or construction for homeowners that have pretty much exhausted all FEMA options and didn't have any insurance. PDA provides labor and some materials and most importantly sitting with the owners and providing someone to talk with developing a relationship. We didn't do any of the construction work. We helped move elderly individuals back into their apartments at Bayou Towers in Houma.
This building is section 8 housing and the roof blew off during Ike and Gustav and had been closed for the last 7 months. We were busy cleaning with the residents and preparing other rooms for them to return back to. They hadn't seen their rooms until last week so we were there when they returned and that in itself was pretty powerful. Many stories and relationships with the residents came from the experience and I can truly say it was life forming for all involved on a multitude of levels. As for the management and the conditions that we saw in the buildings, I am still trying to wrap my mind around how poorly run the whole building was and the way in which the residents were treated was appalling, but don't quite yet know how to put those things into words.
Now back to studying. Hopefully it won't be a month between posts but it is a crazy semester.
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Exercise + Donuts = Insanity
So I took a small study break yesterday morning and headed over to the NC State campus for the craziest running event I have ever seen. The Krispy Kreme Challenge. I did this last year as well and really enjoyed the idea and watching everything in action. Plus, all the proceeds go to the UNC Children's Hospital ($35K to be exact). As a disclaimer, I didn't attempt the full challenge, I just go to watch and get a little exercise.
So for those brave enough to give it a go:
Run 2 miles from the NC State Belltower (a local landmark) to the Krispy Kreme
Eat a dozen Krispy Kremes (cold ones)
Run 2 miles back
Do it in less than 60 minutes
You can just imagine what happens to most of the participants and there was plenty of evidence on the street. I have put a few photos from the event below. I must say, it is nice to go to a race that the overwhelming majority don't really care about the time. There are always creative costumes and team names and everyone I met was friendly and joking around the entire run. I even met some USNA types that had gotten liberty just to come and run the race. I plan to run again next year to watch and help out the kids.
Festivities at the Krispy Kreme
People eating their donuts, notice the guy with the duct tape, he taped speakers and an iPod to his body to provide tunes for everyone on the race course.
5200 runners lining up. You can see some of the costumes in the crowd.
So for those brave enough to give it a go:
Run 2 miles from the NC State Belltower (a local landmark) to the Krispy Kreme
Eat a dozen Krispy Kremes (cold ones)
Run 2 miles back
Do it in less than 60 minutes
You can just imagine what happens to most of the participants and there was plenty of evidence on the street. I have put a few photos from the event below. I must say, it is nice to go to a race that the overwhelming majority don't really care about the time. There are always creative costumes and team names and everyone I met was friendly and joking around the entire run. I even met some USNA types that had gotten liberty just to come and run the race. I plan to run again next year to watch and help out the kids.
Festivities at the Krispy Kreme
People eating their donuts, notice the guy with the duct tape, he taped speakers and an iPod to his body to provide tunes for everyone on the race course.
5200 runners lining up. You can see some of the costumes in the crowd.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Submarine Community
Last semester I wrote a paper on how the sub force really displayed the basics of discipline that many churches will never have the guts to seek. As I wrote that paper, I started to develop a mental list of other areas that the military could inform the church on. Granted many of the ideas will be based on my Submarine experience, but as I get into the Chaplain community, I am pretty sure that these ideas will encompass most of the other warfare communities and service branches I work with/in.
I was browsing a submarine blog yesterday and ran across a post that discussed the basis for respect and authority in the submarine world. I knew that only one's ability to perform was the basis for true authority and respect in that world and I am pretty sure that if the church focused on granting the same criteron, who knows how things would turn out. I am thinking there is a very large paper in this somewhere. Maybe later when I have time, if that ever happens again.
I was browsing a submarine blog yesterday and ran across a post that discussed the basis for respect and authority in the submarine world. I knew that only one's ability to perform was the basis for true authority and respect in that world and I am pretty sure that if the church focused on granting the same criteron, who knows how things would turn out. I am thinking there is a very large paper in this somewhere. Maybe later when I have time, if that ever happens again.
Friday, January 23, 2009
I needed this....
A friend posted this on his facebook account yesterday and it couldn't have come at a more opportune time. On Wednesday I had to endure a dedicated pacifist hold court in a small group discussion of our ethics class. Now, in all honesty, I appreciate and want pacifists in the world. They provide a great check on some of the horrors of war and violence. What really torqued me about this guy was his close-mindedness and how he was spouting off about how if you aren't of his belief you aren't really Christian. Talk like that does wonders to further your argument. Luckily, we will have more opportunities to discuss items and hopefully he will start to let others talk. But, this photo really summed up my feelings and gave me quite a laugh yesterday. Maybe I will email it to him at the end of the course. He needs to know that he can mouth off and be close minded because of a number of people laying it all on the line for his rights.
Friday, January 16, 2009
This Could Get Interesting for Some Chaplains
Today while listening to the news, I heard that Obama's Press Secretary told a Youtube Q&A session that he would repeal the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy for the US Military. That made me think back to a conversation I had with an Active Duty Chaplain after the election in November.
First: I personally don't care about anyone's sexual orientation whom I serve with or have served with in the past. When I was on the boat, the only thing I cared about was if a certain individual would be able to back me up when needed and not do anything to endanger my life or the lives of the others on board. For me it was that simple. During qualification boards, the only question I asked to determine their worthiness to wear fish was, "Is this guy going to keep all of us safe in any situation no matter how dire?" If I felt he would, he got my vote. If not, back to studying.
Second: This post is not about discussing the pros and cons of the present policy or for the repeal of that policy. I am only discussing the ramifications for an already significant shortage of Navy Chaplains (other services have them too, but out of my lane).
After the election, I was discussing how I was certain that Obama would repeal the policy within the first 100 days of his administration. I never expected the announcement to come before the inauguration. I just assumed it would be buried in some obscure bill and would just happen overnight. When my fellow member of the Chaplain Corps and I were discussing this, we pondered the effect of repealing that policy and allowing openly gay individuals to serve would have on certain denominations. Many denominations still have issues with ordained women, something I witnessed at Chaplain School. Mostly they behave in a passive aggressive mode or just completely ignore the women. The women in my class were understandably frustrated at this kind of behavior.
So, we discussed some possibilities for Chaplains of denominations that are openly hostile to the idea of homosexuality, much less allowing gays to serve openly.
1) They just resign over the issue, or at least leave the military after their commitment is over.
2) Their denomination pulls all of their endorsements over the issue. This would result in losing a certain number of Chaplains overnight as when you lose your endorsement, you are done as a Chaplain. Doubt this would happen, but it is not unforeseeable.
3) They stay in the military and try to convert people back to being straight. The military does have policy in place to deal with this behavior, so if it happens would bring swift punishment.
4) They stay in and refuse to even minister to openly gay members. They would have policy behind them:
SECNAVINST 1730.7B
Chaplains shall not be assigned collateral duties which violate the religious practices of the chaplain’s faith group, require services as director, solicitor, or treasurer of funds other than administrator of a Religious Offering Fund, serve on a court-martial or stand watches other than that of duty chaplain.
OPNAVINST 1730.1D
Chaplains shall not be assigned duties that violate noncombatant status or the religious practices of the chaplain’s religious organization, undermine privileged communication, as defined in reference (m), or involve the management of funds other than the ROF.
or,
5) The best option in my opinion: They continue to do their jobs and minister to every individual in their care.
It is my prayer that #5 proves to be the option all individuals with a theological stance against gays utilize. This defines ministry and it is what all Chaplains are called to do.
The second interesting thing about all this is what happens to the force if a large number of Chaplains leave over this issue? The mainline denominations have done a good job keeping people out of military ministry through their explicit or implicit behavior towards the military on either theological, or more recently political views. The mainline denominations have let this important ministry opportunity pass them by and that has significantly changed the demographics of the military and the church. So, when a large number of Chaplains jump ship, there is no one around from other denominations ready to fill the gap because they misunderstand what military ministry is all about.
Just my thoughts. It should be interesting to watch it play out over the next few months.
First: I personally don't care about anyone's sexual orientation whom I serve with or have served with in the past. When I was on the boat, the only thing I cared about was if a certain individual would be able to back me up when needed and not do anything to endanger my life or the lives of the others on board. For me it was that simple. During qualification boards, the only question I asked to determine their worthiness to wear fish was, "Is this guy going to keep all of us safe in any situation no matter how dire?" If I felt he would, he got my vote. If not, back to studying.
Second: This post is not about discussing the pros and cons of the present policy or for the repeal of that policy. I am only discussing the ramifications for an already significant shortage of Navy Chaplains (other services have them too, but out of my lane).
After the election, I was discussing how I was certain that Obama would repeal the policy within the first 100 days of his administration. I never expected the announcement to come before the inauguration. I just assumed it would be buried in some obscure bill and would just happen overnight. When my fellow member of the Chaplain Corps and I were discussing this, we pondered the effect of repealing that policy and allowing openly gay individuals to serve would have on certain denominations. Many denominations still have issues with ordained women, something I witnessed at Chaplain School. Mostly they behave in a passive aggressive mode or just completely ignore the women. The women in my class were understandably frustrated at this kind of behavior.
So, we discussed some possibilities for Chaplains of denominations that are openly hostile to the idea of homosexuality, much less allowing gays to serve openly.
1) They just resign over the issue, or at least leave the military after their commitment is over.
2) Their denomination pulls all of their endorsements over the issue. This would result in losing a certain number of Chaplains overnight as when you lose your endorsement, you are done as a Chaplain. Doubt this would happen, but it is not unforeseeable.
3) They stay in the military and try to convert people back to being straight. The military does have policy in place to deal with this behavior, so if it happens would bring swift punishment.
4) They stay in and refuse to even minister to openly gay members. They would have policy behind them:
SECNAVINST 1730.7B
Chaplains shall not be assigned collateral duties which violate the religious practices of the chaplain’s faith group, require services as director, solicitor, or treasurer of funds other than administrator of a Religious Offering Fund, serve on a court-martial or stand watches other than that of duty chaplain.
OPNAVINST 1730.1D
Chaplains shall not be assigned duties that violate noncombatant status or the religious practices of the chaplain’s religious organization, undermine privileged communication, as defined in reference (m), or involve the management of funds other than the ROF.
or,
5) The best option in my opinion: They continue to do their jobs and minister to every individual in their care.
It is my prayer that #5 proves to be the option all individuals with a theological stance against gays utilize. This defines ministry and it is what all Chaplains are called to do.
The second interesting thing about all this is what happens to the force if a large number of Chaplains leave over this issue? The mainline denominations have done a good job keeping people out of military ministry through their explicit or implicit behavior towards the military on either theological, or more recently political views. The mainline denominations have let this important ministry opportunity pass them by and that has significantly changed the demographics of the military and the church. So, when a large number of Chaplains jump ship, there is no one around from other denominations ready to fill the gap because they misunderstand what military ministry is all about.
Just my thoughts. It should be interesting to watch it play out over the next few months.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
A Decisive Victory, Finally!
Finally, in our 4th season over two years of outdoor and indoor soccer, my divinity school team achieved an overwhelming victory in soccer (11-3). The scores are much higher in indoor as the momentum can change instantly and a rash of goals can erase any kind of lead. For reference, we only scored 6 goals all season last year. I even scored 2 and haven't scored a goal in over 5 years because I normally play defense. We are still only 1-1 in this season and have had a few times around .500 in other seasons, so I am cautiously optimistic about our chances to finally earn a playoff spot. I find this amazing because we never load the team with ringers and people outside our program like many of our competitors seem to feel the need to do all to win a simple and cheap T-shirt.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
One Reason Why Seminary at Duke is Great
Great Basketball and the ability to have some great seats in which to watch said sport. It is nice to see Duke at #2 right now. Hopefully that will continue this season (At least until Georgia Tech). I know Tech probably is a long shot at a win, but one can dream.
Monday, January 5, 2009
Jack of All Trades, Master of None
For all the submarine type readers, I have to disappoint you in this post as the title actually describes my estimation of the PCUSA denomination. There are many similarities between the two behemoth organizations and I will mention a few of them here. I spent the last few days at the Montreat College Conference and got to hear an amazing keynote by Congressman John Lewis. His book just doesn't do justice to hearing his powerful story in person. What an amazing man with a phenomenal story that evokes confidence and hope in humanity.
I don't want to focus on his story, because I could never do it justice, but a common thread I noticed in listening to two leaders of my denomination. One was the moderator and the other the head staffer of the church for Campus ministry. Many people think the denomination will fracture and split over issues that are in the press for all denominations. However, after following the discussion for a few years and applying some good old submarine thinking of root causes. I think the root cause is a lack of denominational identity.
Whenever a proposal or issue rises to the top of the denomination at the General Assembly, it seems the PCUSA decides to take it on and study the issue. They then release a report and say it is on their radar. There are a myriad of issues which follow this pattern. What happens is that precious resources of time, talent and money are thrown at all sorts of issues and all of them important to some group of people. I appreciate acknowledging everyone's worth in the body. However, with so many issues to grapple with everyone suffers.
Take campus ministry for example. I think they said there were 64 universities affiliated with the denomination and another significant number that have campus ministers. However, as the resources have dwindled, the church as significantly reduced their support for nurturing the members who are in college. The conference is a start, but really a band aid and political gesture so show the denomination cares as no real support stems from the conference. Kind of like a steinke hood. There is no real movement or support for college ministry because there are too many things to occupy the denominational offices.
This is similar to one complaint many submariners make about the sub force, myself included. The sub force, around the same time of the Greeneville collision, decided to make everyone experts in every single mission area a submarine could possibly encounter. When I was a Junior Officer out in Pearl, each squadron focused on one or two mission areas and everyone knew what the squadron's main mission was. We learned basic competency in each area, but became experts in a few areas. We felt confident in our ability and overall mission impact and accomplishment. This new focus puts a great strain on the entire force to excel in so many areas that the overall performance seemed to suffer. There is no way to be the best in everything imaginable, humans are designed that way.
Thinking about the church, a denomination can't do it all and shouldn't try. We are told the church is a body with every person having a distinct function. Congregations and denominations are no different. This doesn't mean that my function is more important or vital to the overall body. If I am the hand, I can't be the eyes but I do appreciate what the eyes accomplish. Each denomination seems to be wanting to be the sole expert in every possible function of the universal church and that just seems absurd. This all got me to thinking what would be a good model for a denomination.
Well, maybe the PCUSA needs to spend the time at General Assembly prayerfully discerning what the denomination is called to act upon for the next two years until the next meeting. The church should make a statement of what their vision is and actively work toward that vision. I think they should take a stand and stake a claim to a certain number of issues/movements and put all of their effort into that. This is not to say that individual congregations can't work on their own. They should as each congregation needs to discern their place in the world. But if an outsider can't determine what issues are truly important to the denomination, they will leave it aside. In my experience, churches that succeed, and by extension denominations, are those that you know what they stand for. If you don't agree with their views you respect them and move on, if you agree you stand with them. There is an old saying, if you don't stand for something you will fall for anything.
That being said, the other issue is that if a congregation wants to leave let them. Sign over the property recognizing they are our Christian brothers and sisters. Just because people are in different places theologically doesn't mean we can treat them as enemies. Let them go in love and make sure the path back to the denomination is just as loving if the priorities align once again. I just think that all sides on these denominational issues are looking for the complicated answers when the simple answer is usually the correct one. This idea, while still rough keeps the ability to be a theologically diverse organization, but still allows for a graceful exit for those who don't agree. People on the outside look at our behavior and turn away for good. We need to set the example and put aside our pride and take a stand on living a life of love for everyone.
My two cents.
I don't want to focus on his story, because I could never do it justice, but a common thread I noticed in listening to two leaders of my denomination. One was the moderator and the other the head staffer of the church for Campus ministry. Many people think the denomination will fracture and split over issues that are in the press for all denominations. However, after following the discussion for a few years and applying some good old submarine thinking of root causes. I think the root cause is a lack of denominational identity.
Whenever a proposal or issue rises to the top of the denomination at the General Assembly, it seems the PCUSA decides to take it on and study the issue. They then release a report and say it is on their radar. There are a myriad of issues which follow this pattern. What happens is that precious resources of time, talent and money are thrown at all sorts of issues and all of them important to some group of people. I appreciate acknowledging everyone's worth in the body. However, with so many issues to grapple with everyone suffers.
Take campus ministry for example. I think they said there were 64 universities affiliated with the denomination and another significant number that have campus ministers. However, as the resources have dwindled, the church as significantly reduced their support for nurturing the members who are in college. The conference is a start, but really a band aid and political gesture so show the denomination cares as no real support stems from the conference. Kind of like a steinke hood. There is no real movement or support for college ministry because there are too many things to occupy the denominational offices.
This is similar to one complaint many submariners make about the sub force, myself included. The sub force, around the same time of the Greeneville collision, decided to make everyone experts in every single mission area a submarine could possibly encounter. When I was a Junior Officer out in Pearl, each squadron focused on one or two mission areas and everyone knew what the squadron's main mission was. We learned basic competency in each area, but became experts in a few areas. We felt confident in our ability and overall mission impact and accomplishment. This new focus puts a great strain on the entire force to excel in so many areas that the overall performance seemed to suffer. There is no way to be the best in everything imaginable, humans are designed that way.
Thinking about the church, a denomination can't do it all and shouldn't try. We are told the church is a body with every person having a distinct function. Congregations and denominations are no different. This doesn't mean that my function is more important or vital to the overall body. If I am the hand, I can't be the eyes but I do appreciate what the eyes accomplish. Each denomination seems to be wanting to be the sole expert in every possible function of the universal church and that just seems absurd. This all got me to thinking what would be a good model for a denomination.
Well, maybe the PCUSA needs to spend the time at General Assembly prayerfully discerning what the denomination is called to act upon for the next two years until the next meeting. The church should make a statement of what their vision is and actively work toward that vision. I think they should take a stand and stake a claim to a certain number of issues/movements and put all of their effort into that. This is not to say that individual congregations can't work on their own. They should as each congregation needs to discern their place in the world. But if an outsider can't determine what issues are truly important to the denomination, they will leave it aside. In my experience, churches that succeed, and by extension denominations, are those that you know what they stand for. If you don't agree with their views you respect them and move on, if you agree you stand with them. There is an old saying, if you don't stand for something you will fall for anything.
That being said, the other issue is that if a congregation wants to leave let them. Sign over the property recognizing they are our Christian brothers and sisters. Just because people are in different places theologically doesn't mean we can treat them as enemies. Let them go in love and make sure the path back to the denomination is just as loving if the priorities align once again. I just think that all sides on these denominational issues are looking for the complicated answers when the simple answer is usually the correct one. This idea, while still rough keeps the ability to be a theologically diverse organization, but still allows for a graceful exit for those who don't agree. People on the outside look at our behavior and turn away for good. We need to set the example and put aside our pride and take a stand on living a life of love for everyone.
My two cents.
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