June 23: the Day before the day

So, I am here at General Convention 78 in Salt Lake City, Utah.  Tomorrow the real stuff begins.  Today we walked around, learned the lay of the land, got registered, received our loaner iPads (we are going paperless this time around) and saw many exhibits.

My first thoughts: 

• What a joy to see so many people excited and happy about being the church.
• We don't have enough diversity yet.
• It is so lovely to see friends you haven't seen for a good while.
• Joy is contagious.
• Many, many people yearn to make a difference in other people's lives.
• Utah is beautiful, but hot!

What am I looking forward to?

• Worshipping with hundreds of others!  Oh the joy of it all.
• Learning
• Listening
• Being present
• Learning
• Reflecting
• Growing
• Being inspired
• Learning
• Changing
• Seeing and hearing new ways to be the church
• Being challenged
• Forming relationships

God has placed us in community.  We are not called to be lone-ranger disciples, but we are called to be a member of a larger body which understands that for the body to be complete and whole---all must be present.  All gifts are to be welcomed.  I pray that this truth stays in the forefront for me during the entire Convention.  Please hold us all in prayer.

Almighty and everliving God, source of all wisdom and

understanding, be present with those who take counsel

at General Convention 78 for the renewal and mission of your Church.

Teach us in all things to seek first your honor and glory. Guide

us to perceive what is right, and grant us both the courage to

pursue it and the grace to accomplish it; through Jesus Christ

our Lord. Amen.

Tune in tomorrow, y'all.  And you know what I always say: "Play well with others; make a positive difference in the world; always choose joy!"