California Dreaming...

As my sabbatical comes to an end, there is so much to ponder and consider about life and particularly life in the Church. For 10 days I was at the General Convention in Anaheim as a volunteer. In spite of my ambivalence about maintaining institutional structures and the church in legislative processes, it seemed a good idea to immerse myself amidst friends and colleagues, and gain an appreciation for the mission of the church. What happened was surprising. Meals were shared with old friends, and I gained a newer appreciation for the mission of the Church. The Episcopal Church leaders gathered in Anaheim struggled with issues regarding mission and vision. It seems that God so loved the world, God didn't send an institution. It is a wonder to behold the institution at work.
The mission of the Church was engaged when many who were present stood in solidarity with the service workers at the Disney hotels whose livelihoods were being put at risk. The mission of the Church was engaged when many of those present in Anaheim helped build a Habitat for Humanity House. The disappointment for me was that neither of these opportunities were afforded to the legislators, because the gruelling schedule kept by deputies and bishops precluded them from participating -- unless they avoided a legislative session or committee. As a volunteer at General Convention, I was given the opportunity to see a little of the ECW Triennial gathering as well as the workings of the House of Deputies and House of Bishops. I am grateful for the chance to experience these things, and realize that my ministry does not lie in a legislative process...and I wonder about that for the rest of us.
Also while in California, I enjoyed taking a young person to the Pacific Ocean -- her first time seeing any ocean; and I enjoyed reconnecting with family. It was a delight to rediscover the mountains. The psalmists speak eloquently of the wonder of it all, and I was able to 'Lift up my eyes to the Hills...' out of a hotel room in the high desert. God's creation is truly amazing.
As I spend the last week of this blessed sabbatical engaged in the mission of the Church, (Katrina relief at Camp Coast Care), I continue to pray that God will open my mind and heart to love and compassion.