Needing Air

This week I have been learning that as an internal processor, I just need time to breathe that it appears that external processors don't need. I find it almost impossible to go from one conversation to the next without at least a minute or two of downtime in between.

This morning started with four people in my office within the first 10 minutes! I need to figure out a way to let people know that absolutely, you can have my full attention, but let me find my feet first! Let me have those couple of minutes in between things so that I can be more fully present, and ready to hear you for what you are truly saying.

So I am asking dear bloggers, do you need that space? Do you get that space? Any suggestions for a newbie preacher?

For that is who I am, new to staff, new to the state, and new to this adventure.

Your partner in the ministry,
Preaching Kate

Where's the Word?

I am prepping for my first "preaching" Sunday this week, and came to the realization that at most of the worship services here at this church, people are ONLY hearing the gospel lesson. Now I know the theory that some scripture is better than no scripture, but perhaps instead of using film clips or having another song, we should cut some of that and have more scripture? Just a pondering on my part.

As a lover of music, I am one who usually says you can't have too much music in worship. Maybe the problem is the "need" to get in and out of worship in an hour for traffic flow issues. As I sit in my office, trying to figure out how to fit it all in, I can't help but wonder what does God think about it?

We don't have time in worship to read the Word of God? It hurts my heart! So blogoshpere friends, what say you? How do we fit in more scripture, still get out in an hour, and keep everyone relatively happy? And trust me, shorter sermons are just fine with me!

Also, if you were only to read the gospel and one other lesson, which one would you choose? I would love your insight!

Blessings on your day,
Preaching Kate

Empty Cup

Today we learned that the senior pastor will be telling the rest of the staff of his situation. I approach this with a combination of relief (finally everyone on staff on the same page) and apprehension (how will they all react?). I cannot imagine how he is feeling. I find it difficult, because I know that he needs a pastor in these moments, but also know that I am not at a place where I can offer that to him. I can support him, but also need to support the rest of the staff, and however they are feeling after tomorrow.

So, oh wise blog readers, today the question is...when you are new to a community, when you are new to a congregation, where do you go to get YOUR cup filled? I believe we cannot give to others when we are running on empty. And today, quite honestly? I am feeling just that.

Praying that God is filling your cups today,
Preaching Kate

Broken Trust, Leaning Hard

Today I start this blog somewhere between a heavy heart and huge excitement. I am new to the call where I am, but have already had broken trust with the senior pastor.

It is a difficult place to be, and a hard place to start. But I am doing my best to lean on the Lord and trust in His guiding.

Where God is, may my heart be also.

How do you deal with broken trust? Especially when you barely know the person who broke it? Such an interesting way to start. Any advice out there blogosphere?

Preaching Kate