The Joys of Cardboard!

I just hate boxes! I suppose that’s one of the reasons I’ve not moved very often in my ministerial life! Boxes full of things make my mind cluttered and anxious. During the moving process I’m just not a happy camper when I’m sensing dis-organization. My administrative interests become irritated when I can’t find a certain item, and the label on the box is of no help! Where did I put such and such? My poor wife, in spite of her tenderness and patience, the moving process is just not fun!
Bishop Mike Watson has appointed me to serve as the Senior Pastor of the New Liberty UMC in Braselton, Georgia (north of Atlanta along Interstate 85) beginning June 28th. The New Liberty UMC will be my 5th clergy appointment. So, ready or not, here comes the moving process!
When you next see me, I hope to have an outfit that matches. If you find me with one shoe that ties and another that slips on, just be polite about what you have to say! I’ll need your compassion, and Christy will need a hug!
I served 5 years in my first clergy appointment, 18 in the second, 9 in the third and just 15 months in the most recent. The first 5 years I served as the Pastor of a small country church. The next 27 years were spent in camp and retreat ministry; 18 years at one camp and 9 at another. This past year I’ve been consulting with a camp and retreat adventure conducted by the Mt. Bethel UMC in Marietta and the Northside UMC in Atlanta. So that really adds up to 28 years serving as an Administrator and/or Director of camp and retreat centers. I’ve loved the opportunity to encourage young persons in their spiritual and personal quests. Camping ministry offers a “prime time” experience in coming to Christ!
While I just hate boxes, I just love a new challenge! In fact, I often seek out something to challenge my mind or body, be it a golf course, a trout stream, or a carpentry project! So while I am not glad to pick up a box just now, I am delighted to pick up the challenge of serving as your Pastor. In the days and months ahead I hope to sit on your front porch, sip a sweet tea with you, and become acquainted with you and your family! And if you need a box, let me know, I’m eager to be done using them!