Our Pastor From The Pastor

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     “Sabbath” is the concept of a day of rest, where no work is done, but only worship and activities that renew, restore, and refresh individuals and communities. In Christian communities, we have claimed Sunday as our Sabbath day. In the Jewish tradition (and a few Christian) Saturday is the Sabbath. For our Muslim brothers and sisters, it is Friday.
     In reading Walter Brueggeman's book, Challenge To Difference, I have been reminded how central the mandate to observe the Sabbath was to our forbearers. Not only was the very creation itself anchored in a “day,” or period of rest and renewal, but Sabbath was central to the ten commandments (Ex. 20/Deut. 5) and many of the ethical laws engrained into our faith in the Pentateuch (the first five books of the Hebrew Bible).
     However, Brueggeman doesn't simply list the directives concerning the day of rest, nor does he browbeat us with shame for how horrible we modern folks are in observing (or not, as the case may be) Sabbath. Rather, he shows very clearly how setting aside a time, a place, and, most importantly, a place in our souls for reliance upon God and God alone is deeply embedded throughout the Bible and of our Judeo-Christian faith.
     From Genesis to the Psalms, from to Isaiah to Jesus and the early church, setting aside a distinct portion of life where God alone rules, is taken for granted as people of faith. If we truly abide by this mandate, it becomes countercultural - and not just for us 21st-century faithful. Even in the days of the exodus - especially in the days of the exodus from Egypt - claiming a day off work, from “making bricks,” flew in the face of Pharoah's demanding ways. Whether it is a desperate Egyptian king or a consuming corporate culture that is insisting we make more “bricks” with less “straw,” we feel pulled to overwork and “underrest” more and more and more.
     I know well that because of circumstances few of us are afforded the generous time off that you are allowing me this spring and next fall. I am aware, perhaps, too painfully aware, of the privilege I am afforded by this gracious offer. What I am more and more convinced of, however, is that every one of us has available, on some small or large level, the opportunity to tell Pharoah, “No!” We will not work ourselves to death in order to feed an insatiable hunger of a system that does not ultimately serve God nor the wellbeing of ourselves and our communities.
     Let us all find moments of countercultural resistance in the coming weeks. As I am renewed, I shall pray for you to be renewed, also. And let us all find a way to claim, “enough,” and be at Sabbath peace.

Gratefully Your Pastor,
Allen

Upcoming Guest Preachers
We welcome the following preachers to our worship in the coming weeks:
Sunday, May 4 - Al Betts, member of Franklin Circle Christian Church, Elder, and Chair of the Board
Sunday, May 11 - Michelle Brown, member of Franklin Circle Christian Church, Elder, YEP! Program Director, and licensed lay ministry candidate.
Sunday, May 18 - Rev. Dr. William Edwards, Regional Minister of the Christian Church in Ohio
Sunday, May 25 - Rev. James Schimmel, retired Disciples of Christ pastor and frequent worshiper at Franklin Circle Christian Church.
Sunday, June 1 - Rev. Al Kean, Regional Elder and retired Disciples of Christ pastor.
Sunday, June 8 - Rev. Carrie Culleen, member of Franklin Circle Christian Church, Worship Team Chair, and chaplain with Benjamin Rose Institute.

Strong Lay Leaders

As we prepare for the first of my two Study & Renewal Leaves this year, I thought it might be good to offer a word about how the congregation will be led during my time away. It is also a chance to remind us as members of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) that we have a strong emphasis on lay ministry in our belief in “the priesthood of all believers.” There will be no better chance to live up to our highest ideals than during such a time as this.

Our tradition has two biblical offices for lay ministry: Elder and Deacon. We have added a third out of necessity for contemporary needs: Trustee. Together, these three make up the Board of our congregation. Elders are the Spiritual Leaders of the congregation. Deacons take the lead in Servant Ministry. The Trustees are charged with wise stewardship of the investments, both facilities and finances, of the church.

During my time away, all of the month of May and the first two weeks of June, the Elders will be especially important for the full functioning of the congregation. The chair of the Board of Elders, Sharon Thomas, will seek to insure consistency in worship throughout the time. Each Sunday, in addition to the regularly scheduled worship leaders, we will have a guest preacher and a “Host Elder.” The Host Elder will sit up front on the platform and share in many of the worship tasks that I might otherwise do: offertory, pastoral prayer, etc. We have lined up a marvelous set of guest preachers to bring the Word to life in different and exciting ways.

As far as the day-to-day oversight, the Chair of the Board, Al Betts, will be central. Working with our staff and Team and Committee Chairs, he will make sure things are running smoothly. In the case of a significant pastoral emergency, there will be several nearby Disciples pastors “on-call” to respond to these needs. You will simply call our Church Secretary, Carole Sauer, during office hours and Elder Sharon Thomas at other times.

The current Board of Elders includes: Sharon Thomas (chair), Al Betts, Jean Borrelli, Mary Brogan, Michelle Brown, Randy Buckingham, Jane Cheiky, Ralph Eyring, Patty Groetsch, Claire Munley, and Leila Streidl. Patty Adams, Ted Brogan, and Claude Pitman are Honorary Elders with full privileges as any other Elder. The Pastor is considered an “Elder among Elders” in our tradition.

One of the key texts for Eldership is from 1 Peter 5:1-4:
"So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ _as well as a partaker in the glory that is to be revealed. Tend the flock of God that is in your charge, not by constraint but willingly; not for shameful gain but eagerly; not as domineering over those in your charge but being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd is manifested, you will obtain the unfading crown of glory.”

Our Board of Elders do, indeed, see themselves as shepherds of this flock we know as “Franklin Circle Christian Church. They will do well in leading our congregation through this brief, but important, time in our life together. Pray for them, and rely upon them as you would me, and Christ's hopes for the Church will come closer to being fulfilled.

Grace & Peace,
Your Pastor,
Allen

From The Pastor
Pastor's Study & Renewal Leave Plans ~ 2008

Over the past few months, in conversation with the officers and Elders of our congregation, I have discerned some confusion and uncertainty about the sabbatical leave that was part of my original call to this congregation. I have come to understand that few in our congregation or community know a person who has gone “on sabbatical,” much less been on a sabbatical themselves. This lack of experience might lead to some unconscious resentment or distance between me as your pastor and you, the congregation. Never would I want that to happen!

But at the same time I have felt a flood of care and concern for me, that I might have some time away from the day-to-day tasks of ministry in order to be renewed and re-energized. I am deeply appreciative for this show of support and thoughtfulness.

So, the Elders and I have rethought what is most needed. Instead of one three-month absence I will take two shorter Study & Renewal Leaves this year. One leave will be as planned in the spring (all of May and early June). The other one will be scheduled in the fall, probably all of October and the first part of November. I believe these will allow me the time necessary to unwind and be renewed for life and for my future ministry.

These Study & Renewal Leaves will first and foremost give me time to visit dear friends in other cities. For personal growth, I also plan on finding some time to play my guitar, take photographs around the cities I visit, and read some of those books which have stacked up around my office.

But also in each of two 6-week segments I will visit two cities each, visiting worship services at dynamic and diverse urban churches that are much like Franklin Circle Christian Church. By worshipping in such congregations, I hope to be renewed first and foremost simply as a worshipper, allowing the power of praise and the wisdom of the communities to “fill my cup.” Of course, if I learn a little bit about how other urban congregations offer spirited worship with God's diverse peoples, then I won't complain, either!

In the first part of my Study and Renewal Leave, in May and early June, I will be visiting Minneapolis, Minnesota and Washington, D.C. In Minneapolis I hope to visit the Church of All Nations Presbyterian Church, and The Sanctuary Covenant Church (ECC) as well as attend the Festival of Homiletics (“homiletics” means “preaching!”)

In Washington, DC I hope to spend significant time at the Seekers Church/Church of the Savior as well as attend once again the City Of God for the American Cities conference at the National Cathedral College.

The second part of my Study and Renewal Leave we are intentionally leaving a bit open, to allow the Spirit to guide us after the first segment. It will most likely take place next October and first two weeks of November and I would visit San Francisco, CA and New York, NY. In San Francisco I would soak up the powerful worship of Glide Memorial United Methodist Church and in New York I would explore the up-and-coming diverse worship of Middle Church (Reformed Church of America).

So, there you have it! Your prayers and feedback are always welcome and needed! My hope is that through this Study & Renewal Leave our entire congregation will benefit as we move forward “Widening The Circle For All God's Children!”

Grace & Peace,
Pastor Allen

Didn't We Just Sing “The First Noel?”

We'll be singing “Were You There” all too soon! While I cannot verify it technically, I do believe this is the quickest turnaround between Christmas and Lent that I've ever experienced! Epiphany, the season of looking for “manifestations” of God around us, will be fleeting. As with all challenges, I hope we can make this “tight squeeze” a spiritually enriching opportunity!

So, we shouldn't waste much time getting ready. A fairly decent description of Lent is given in the online free encyclopedia Wikipedia:
In most Christian denominations, Lent is the forty-day period (or season) lasting from Ash Wednesday to Holy Saturday. The forty days represents the time Jesus spent in the desert, where, according to the Bible, he endured the temptation of Satan. The six Sundays in Lent are not counted in the forty days because each Sunday represents a "mini-Easter" celebration of the Jesus' victory over sin and death. In those churches which follow the Byzantine tradition (e.g. Eastern Orthodox and Eastern Catholics), the forty days of Lent are calculated differently; Sundays are included, but the days of Holy Week are not. Lent is a time of preparation for Holy Week, which recalls the events linked to the Passion of Christ and culminates in Easter, the celebration of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ.

The forty-day period is symbolic of the 40 days spent by Jesus in the desert. The number forty has many other Biblical significances: the forty days Moses spent on Mount Sinai with God; the forty days and nights Elijah spent walking to Mount Horeb; God makes it rain for forty days and forty nights in the story of Noah; the Hebrew people wandered forty years traveling to the Promised Land; Jonah in his prophecy of judgment gave the city of Nineveh forty days grace in which to repent. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lent)

** This year we will have the opportunity to begin Lent in two wonderful ways. On Wednesday, February 6 at 12 noon our church will be offering a simple Ash Wednesday service, with organ, scripture, and ashes being offered. Then, later that evening at 7 p.m. at Lakewood Christian Church 17513 Detroit Ave., we will gather with several other Disciples of Christ congregations to share in an Ash Wednesday service. We hope everyone will join us for this very special opportunity. **

So, don't delay in seeking out God's manifestations in your life, for Epiphany shall be soon over. Lent and its disciplines will be here soon!

God's Grace Is Abundant,
Pastor Allen

“What do you think God's vision is for Franklin Circle Christian Church?”

I posed this question as part of my sermon on November 11, and many of you responded with enthusiasm. I still hope to hear from more of you, but I thought you might like to know just a few of the responses we received.

Several replies dealt specifically with our motto, “Widening The Circle For All God's Children.” This included: “God's Vision is to have everyone live together in love and equality,” “open arms to all, no matter who or what they are,” “What is so hard to understand, God in any language in any land in any shape, size, color, race! We come up with the same Holy God,” “Taking the diversity all around us and meshing it into one,” and “I see this church being an open door.”

But some wanted to get even more specific about our diversity: “Set an example of Affirming & Open,” “We should be officially and Open & Affirming community of faith,” “be handicap accessible,” and “Reach out to the poor, the homeless by just being there first, and let the know we love them as God does.”

There were several affirmations of our focus on youth, both within the congregation and in the community around us, as well as our current effort to secure a youth minister: “To try to get children and teens more involved,” “To get more youth in the church and get them more involved in church, We need to relate more to the youth of the neighborhood. I would love to see more people give their gifts to the program to reach the youth.” “Your vision for a Youth Pastor is so right on! A full time minister able to focus on the youth - go out in the neighborhood and pull these kids in is the key,” “The After School program needs more “umph,'” and then one response urged us to expand to the next age level: “Establish a base for young adults.”

Several folks encouraged us to be even more involved out in the neighborhood and in community issues: “To bring more people into our church to receive God's grace through more and better programs,” “To be a beacon of hope in this neighborhood, to reach out to those in the neighborhood who are lost, lonely, sad, depressed. We can best do this by having an outreach ministry that goes out into the neighborhood to reach these people,” “To serve and help people in the neighborhood,” and “Go out in the neighborhood and try to teach the way of God, teaching and helping all those who need help. Try to stop all of the violence.”

There were several affirmations of me, as pastor, and of particular programs and activities the church is already doing. There were also a few suggestions for specific new programs to start. But then there were a few challenges as to how we do things, “If you are going to 'talk the talk' then be prepared to 'walk the walk,'” “We need to serve the community less and teach the community to serve God,” “Why is our nation rebelling against God? He is the Ruler of Heaven and Earth, over water and all the animals walking His earth. Look around you. We have one God, one Holy Spirit,” and “I think we need to hold up all of our activities to a standard: Does each of our activities allow us to share and/or bring all of “us” to Christ?... and not simply “minister” to others. Prayers, hymns, invitations to Christ should always be a part of these activities.”

This kind of feedback is critical to help the Board and me know if our efforts are on track. If you haven't picked up a yellow index card at church and responded to the question, “What is God's Vision for Franklin Circle Christian Church?” then do so today. You can also go to our website www.FranklinCircleChurch.org and fill out a “card” there, as well as read all of the responses we have so far. May God's vision, your vision as the church, and my vision as your pastor, come together in new and every more powerful ways in 2008.

God's Grace Is Abundant!
Pastor Allen

"What Shall We Name Him?"

This year's Advent devotional book provided for us by the Worship Team, “What Shall We Name Him?,” will help us explore the different names we have to describe Jesus, from Messiah to Prince of Peace to Good Shepherd, as well as so many others. This should be a wonderful community learning process in which I pray each of you will faithfully participate. I will explore these names and titles further in my sermons each Sunday in Advent as well as on Christmas Eve.

Names are important, and our use of language for the divine is critical. As many of you are probably well aware, I seek to use the most inclusive language for God, Jesus, and God's people in what I say in public prayers and in worship. I do so while carefully honoring the use of different kinds of language other people use. It is my understanding that the One who created the universe, who forms constellations and cells alike, and breathes life into each and every moment is ultimately beyond the limitations of my perspective, not to mention my verbal communication.

It is a paradox that comes to light in our faith talk that in the incarnation, or “in-body-ment,” of God in Jesus that we are to comprehend the sacred not just in the vague and other-worldly but in the flesh-and-blood here and now. At the same time that we receive God in the crying and cooing infant Jesus, we are to be very wary about getting caught up in the specifics of the person. In other words, God is always transcendent AND immanent, always more than we can imagine and precisely what we can envision.

As we look at the biblical names for Jesus, I encourage you to dig a little deeper. What names mean something special to you? How are they helpful and how are they limited? What names don't “do much” for you? Don't discount them, but explore them more fully, for they have meant something to others throughout the ages. What names or titles are absent from our devotional booklet? What ones would you add, and why?

As we move closer and closer to the evening where we remember and reenact The Word Made Flesh, let us use our words prayerfully and wisely. May we find just the right words to express our “Hosanna's In The Highest” but never too many words to exclude the mystery that is always just beyond our imagination.

Please join us each Sunday at 9:30 a.m. for Adult Sunday School and 10:30 a.m. for worship. A very special invitation is extended to you, your family and your friends, to join us for our Christmas Eve Candlelight Service on Monday, December 24 at 7 p.m.

Grace & Peace,
Pastor Allen

** Don't forget to check out the archive of my sermons on our website. Go to www.FranklinCircleChurch.org and click on the “Sermons” button on the lower left side.

Seasons Of God's Love

I will give you your rains in their season, and the land shall yield its produce, and the trees of the field shall yield their fruit. ~ Leviticus 26:4

Happy are those whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and on God's law they meditate day and night. _They are like trees planted by streams of water, which yield their fruit in its season, and their leaves do not wither. In all that they do, they prosper. ~ Psalm 1:1-3

I've always been hesitant to use the imagery of “seasons” for God, and I'm not sure why. I think, in part, it is because seasons come and go, and sometimes it feels as if each year is exactly the same as the last, as well as all those years that came before the last. I refuse to think of God as “stagnant” or “the same ol' same ol'.” Similarly, somewhere in my educational history I think I connected the seasons with pantheistic religions that worship created things, such as the trees.

Perhaps it is as I mature that I become more and more in tune with the sacred cycles of the seasons. Certainly the movement of the seasons - winter to spring to summer to fall to winter, again - can remind us of the Christian truths of life, death, and new life. But they also remind us, as the years roll along, that we must be good stewards of all that we have. Those closer to the changes of earth, air, and water throughout the year, such as farmers and gardeners, know that how one treats the earth in one season may - no, WILL - affect us and/or our children in another.

And this imagery, of the seasons of stewardship, has strong biblical roots. The Apostle Paul wrote:
What then is Apollos? What is Paul? Servants through whom you came to believe, as the Lord assigned to each. I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth. ~ 1 Corinthians 3:5-7

It also reminds me of a beautiful quote attributed to Archbishop Oscar Romero:
We plant the seeds that one day will grow. We water seeds already planted, knowing they hold future promise. We lay foundations that will need further development. We provide yeast that produces effects far beyond our capabilities. We cannot do everything, and there is a sense of liberation in realizing that. This enables us to do something, and do it very well. It may be incomplete, a step along the way, an opportunity for the Lord's grace to enter and do the rest.

As the seasons change from fall to winter, you are being asked to plant seeds of support for the future of this church by pledging to sustain the mission and ministry of this congregation in 2008. Through the regular and substantial support our annual budget receives from investments our Trustees oversee, we rely upon the “seeds” that faithful church members planted many years ago. Many devoted church leaders have nurtured these “seedlings” over the years. We see fruit every day in the lives touched and changed through the ministries of Franklin Circle Christian Church.

But these gifts can't, and shouldn't, be the sum total of our congregation's financial support. We need to plan new “seeds” today, to ensure fresh “fruit” for tomorrow. We may never actually see this fruit ripen and nourish the world, but we trust in God that every gift given, in faithfulness and hope, will serve God's people someday.

Many of you have increased your pledge this last year in order to help bring on staff an Associate Pastor for Youth. Talk about trusting God in all seasons! Your additional support over the next few years as we get this new pastor established and fully functioning will be seeds well sown!

When you receive your Stewardship Commitment letter and pledge card for the 2008 Operating Budget, I ask you to look out your window and see evidence of the seasons of nature changing, and give thanks. Then think about where you have seen God at work at our church, especially in our children and youth, and see evidence of the Seasons of God's Love changing and growing. Prayerfully fill out your pledge card, and either bring it or mail it to the church, and we will dedicate them in worship in November.

Thank you, so very much, for believing in the work of God in this church throughout all the seasons of life.

Grace & Peace,
Pastor Allen

Remembering In Prayer

“I do not cease to give thanks for you as I remember you in my prayers.” - Ephesians 1:16

As many of you may know since my experience at the City Of God conference in Washington, DC this past June I have renewed my commitment to daily prayer, and have begun each day since then in prayer. At the Board Leadership Retreat on August 25 I also shared that starting September 1st I would pray each day for a different leader in our congregation. When I have prayed for every Deacon, Deaconess, Trustee, Elder, Team Chair, and Fellowship President, I will turn to the congregation in general.

I hesitate to tell you this, taking seriously Jesus' words in Matthew 6:6 about praying in secret. But I do so keenly aware that leadership is sometimes a lonely and difficult calling. Perhaps knowing that your pastor is praying for you specifically might help you in your ministry. I also see it as one more extension of “being present” with you, a goal I shared with you in my August 25 sermon.* A large part of being present with and for someone is to hold them in your heart in prayer.

Now, being a person dedicated to action, I also immediately get concerned that so much prayer might lead to an overly self-absorbed mindset. Not at all! In fact, prayer is a necessary prerequisite to action as people of faith. To act prior to prayer is to risk acting on our own behalf, or otherwise foolishly. Prayer which is honest, open, and heart-felt grounds us in a reality other than our own, and leads us towards a divine perspective. And that is the best foundation for action!

My invitation to you, this amazing vibrant, diverse, urban congregation, is to commit yourselves again to prayer. Not just an occasional prayer, but prayer that is disciplined (meaning regular), unhurried, and outwardly focused. You might even want to get the list of Board Members and pray for the leaders of our congregation. What a mighty energy such a communal commitment to prayer would harness for the good of this church, The Church, and the world! May it be so.

Grace & Peace,
Pastor Allen

*I would delight for you to my read this sermon, “Our Job: Here & Now” Isaiah 58:9b-14. You can do so either on the internet at www.franklincirclechurch.org/Sermon%20070826.htm or by calling the church office and asking for a printed copy to be mailed to you.

“Presente!”

In Central and South America there has come a sad but powerful tradition of recognizing the absence of persons who were victims of violence, principally during the 1970's and 1980's. Those gathered to remember, especially the women who were mothers and wives of the missing, would respond as each name was read aloud, “Presente!” or “Present!” It is a reminder of how the spirit of the deceased remains with us, in silent witness to the injustices perpetrated.

Catholic Archbishop Oscar Romero [see photo to the left], who was murdered while officiating at mass in March of 1984 in El Salvador, is often remembered in such rituals. He was well known for being a people's pastor, one who walked with his parishioners through their harshest trials and tribulations. Both Pastor Romero and the compelling rite memorializing him are a tribute to the power of being present with others. Woody Allen once said, “Eighty percent of success is showing up.” While I'm not one to typically champion his philosophy, I do think Allen's got something here. Being present is a large part of the success of life.

Someone I would rather quote is Gordon Cosby [see photo to the right], founder of Church of the Savior in Washington, DC, who I met this past June. He talked to us “City Of God” seminar folks about a deeper level of existence, deeper than knowing or doing. This is the level of being. Being with people means you are more likely to discover their essence, that which makes them - and us - who we are. He challenged the church to start with simply being with the people we serve, and not spend so much time doing, doing, doing or even thinking about what we should do. After all, we believe that simply being with Jesus is what forms the essence of our being as Christians!

To be present with people is to honor God's Holy Spirit at work in them. To make this clear in my own mind, I began thinking about where our church is “doing” ministry and where we are “thinking about” ministry. I realized that some of the most “hands on” ministries Franklin Circle Christian Church does are also some of the most isolated and disembodied programs! Our Thursday Meal Program, our After School Program, and our Youth Group are critical places where Jesus calls us to minister to those in need, and yet they involve the fewest number of people in the congregation. I also realized that one of the most vital places where ministry should be happening - with young adults - was the very place we had absolutely no presence at all.

It was then that I promised myself that I would challenge you, the congregation, and me, as the pastor, to be more present with these people and programs. No, I'm not calling us to “do” more or even to “think about” them more right now. The studying and the action can and probably will come later. What is more important is to be with those in need, and see their essence, and show them Jesus' essence.

Thus, I am visiting the Thursday Meal Program over at St. Patrick's Church as often as I can, and will be even more present when it moves back to our facilities. Will you join me in being present with our neighbors? I will be working with the After School Program and getting to know our teens and their families. Won't you join me in being present with our neighborhood children and youth? I believe our goal of hiring a new full-time and theologically-trained minister is an investment in being present with our youth, both in the church and beyond our walls. But the new minister can't do it alone. He or she will need you to be present, also. Will you commit to being present with our church youth?

Finally, you will notice on the calendar something new on Tuesday evenings. From 5 to 6:30 p.m. I am going to be present at Gypsy Bean Coffee Shop, on the corner of 65th Street and Detroit Ave. for “Café Conversations.” I will invite anyone and everyone, but especially the young adults who've visited our church - and those who haven't - to visit with me over a cup of coffee or tea. We'll talk about what's on their minds, what's important to them, what's in the news, and maybe we'll even talk a little spirituality and theology! I've worked with the owner, Nikki Gillota, and she's agreed to let me hang out at a table for a while… or, if we get big enough, use their back meeting room!

“Presente!” I think every time we seek to be fully present with one another, and especially those in need, those wandering on their way, those who feel adrift, we are bringing the essence of Jesus back to life. I hope you will join me, because, of course, it cannot be just the pastor. Let the church be “Present!” and Christ's Body will be, also.

God's Grace Is Abundant!
Pastor Allen

From The Pastor

In Romans 12 the Apostle Paul offers an appeal that is often used in our worship services as a litany for leaders as they are installed. In it, Paul urges us to not be “conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds.” What a beautiful and awesome concept: to resist shaping ourselves to the will of the world, but seek a divine renewal that will lead inevitably to transformation (which is a fancy word for “change”).

How do we do this? How do we let go of the temptations and forces of “the way things are” to allow us to become what God dreams for us to be? Well, Paul gives us a very specific and realistic means of fulfilling this reality: accept that not every one has to do and be the same kind of leader, or the same kind of Christian, for that matter. He says it exquisitely: “We have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us” If we are going to be healthy Christians, and if this endeavor called “church” is to every really succeed, we can't expect everyone to do the same things, fulfill the same roles, or even enjoy the same aspects of church.

By now I hope you have heard of the drive to get financial commitments, over and above our regular pledges, from members and friends of the congregation to help support the new Associate Minister/Youth Director position we are hoping to fill this fall. The cost of filling this position will be about $30,000 annually, and the congregation is being asked to commit to raise its level of giving to cover about a third of the costs, about $10,000. This is roughly equal to the amount our congregation's tithes and offerings support the annual operating budget. The Trustees have committed to using funds from our invested monies to cover the rest.

Central to this new venture is the realization that our congregation needs someone whose gifts differ from the grace given the rest of us: one who is called to be a full-time minister to our youth. We are also committed to finding someone who can fulfill all the spiritual duties of a pastor as well in order to provide this congregation with ample spiritual support when I am ill or away. I humbly recognize that neither my gifts or calling for ministry, nor those of our very able youth sponsors, Patty Groetsch and Jean Borrelli, are adequate to the needs of our vibrant, growing, youth-full church.

If we honestly acknowledge our own unique gifts and callings, and we honor what we can do and what we cannot do, then it will mean seeking out those who have the gifts that are needed so that Franklin Circle Christian Church can realize the mission to which God is calling us in this day and this place. Will we be changed? I hope so!

If you have not already, please contact Carole Sauer, our Financial Secretary, in the church office to let her know how much you can raise your pledge to help cover the cost of our new Associate Pastor/Youth Director. Every gift, no matter how large or small, is deeply appreciated.

God's Grace Is Abundant!
Pastor Allen

July 2007
Deepening Our Roots To Extend Our Branches

It is an ancient metaphor, and its truth speaks to us afresh today. In order for our reach, our grasp to be extended out into the world, we must grow deeper and more sustaining roots. I think we know this truth instinctively, but the busy-ness of our lives often masks its power and necessity. I am no different. Even your pastor needs to be reminded occasionally of how important nurturing roots is to sustaining growth.

I experienced something profoundly disturbing and yet amazingly refreshing at the seminar which I attended this past week, “The City Of God For American Cities: Reinventing The Urban Church” led by Douglas and Carolyn Bailey. Through pilgrimages to sites around Washington, D.C. and visits with world-renown theologians, such as James Forbes, Barbara Brown Taylor, and Gordon Crosby, the 27 pastors and lay leaders gathered were reminded in pointed and prayerful ways: don't forget to nurture the roots! Amazing, audacious, incredible things can happen - if one's roots are deep and if a community's roots are healthy.

This can be brought about in many ways according to the needs and the grace of the individual or community. We were reminded of the critical importance of honoring and actually observing Sabbath rest, of open and honest prayer, of sharing deeply and candidly with beloved family, friends, and colleagues, and of sticking close to the “essence” of God.

As our congregation continues to reach out to others in new and renewed ways, let us be reminded that nothing can be done without God's abiding presence in our lives. As we share good news with the youth and young adults of our neighborhood, let them see well-grounded and prayerful people of faith inviting them to discipleship. As we advocate for the poor and those on the margins of life, let us do so from a position of confidence, centered on the call of God and Jesus' own example.

And let us hear the apostle Paul's prayer for the church at Ephesus as if it were for us, also: “I pray that, according to the riches of God's glory… you may be strengthened in your inner being with power through God's spirit, that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith, as you are being rooted and grounded in love.” (Eph. 3:17) May it be so!

God's Grace Is Abundant!
Pastor Allen

June 2007

Important Decisions

Dear FCCC Members & Friends,

I write to inform you that at the congregational meeting on Sunday, May 6 the new slate of candidates for Elders, Diaconate, and Trustees were elected. They will begin their terms of service on July 1, 2007. I hope you will join me in welcoming our newly called and elected leadership.

Also, the congregation voted overwhelmingly to create the position of Associate Pastor/Youth Director. This person will be fully trained and ordained as a pastor in order to better guide our youth and build our youth program in powerful and faithful new ways. The entire church will reap the benefits from such a pastor. This pastor will also be capable of filling in on those occasions when I am on vacation, on sabbatical, or ill.

The job description that has been approved by the Board and Congregation is available from the church office and is posted on our website at http://www.franklincirclechurch.org/Our%20Staff.htm#Staff%20News .

I am very pleased that our congregation has chosen to staff our church in such a way as to support our youth as well as with a view for the future growth we are faithfully expecting, (and are already beginning to experience). Certainly my own pastoral experience has proven that an investment in the youth of our community and our congregation is a wise and fruitful decision for the entire congregation.

Wisely, the Board, with the encouragement of the Trustees, has agreed that the hiring of an Associate Pastor/Youth Director will depend upon receiving commitments from the congregation, and our friends and family near and far, to support this new position at least by the same percentage the congregation supports the annual operating budget, which is approximately 30%. Over the summer the youth of our church have graciously agreed to lead us in a campaign to raise our pledges to cover the $10,000 (30% of a $30,000 salary + benefits). We will begin interviewing only after the congregation's commitment is assured.

I would invite you to read my sermon from Sunday, April 29 which explores the importance of a healthy balance of lay leadership and clergy leadership in our congregation. You can read it at: http://www.franklincirclechurch.org/sermon%20070429.htm and copies are available at the church.

I understand that many exciting things are happening at FCCC, and some of it may be confusing. Please, if you have any concerns, questions or simply need help to get your mind wrapped around all that is going on, please do not hesitate to call me at 216-781-8232 or e-mail me at PastorAllen@FranklinCircleChurch.org. I will gladly set up a time to visit with you about the progress our congregation is making to "Widen The Circle For All God's Children." You are also invited to the Board meeting on Sunday, June 10 where we will work through more of the details of our process.

God's Grace Is Abundant!
Pastor Allen

May 2007

The Big Picture

It’s one of the hardest things for church folks to do, both laity and clergy alike. It is difficult to step back and see the “big picture” of how things work for the whole church, how this or that idea or program fits into the context of the past, the present, and the hoped for future, and who might benefit from decisions within a congregation and beyond it in the community.

Most leaders, and certainly much of the rest of the congregation, have limited time, energy, and ability to keep in mind all the various aspects of the church on an ongoing basis. We want to use our gifts and graces wisely, with the time and energy we have, and so we focus on one or two facets of the church to support, participate in, and keep up with. This is understandable and responsible.

But as your pastor, I am charged with keeping the “big picture” constantly before the leadership. My “5 Point Plan” offered almost a year ago was my humble attempt to get us to step back and make some careful and faithful choices to improve the “big picture” of Franklin Circle Christian Church. Since that time we have added a sixth critical focus, that of Youth Ministry.

Well, the time has come for us to decide. Over the next several months proposals will be offered to the Board regarding these priorities. At the April 29 Board Meeting a proposal to hire a new pastor, with primary responsibilities in Youth Ministry, will be set forth. This is a huge step, and a lot of the congregation is invested in the decision.

The challenge will be for each and every leader of the congregation to look at these decisions from several perspectives. Each one of us will bring our particular beliefs, experiences, passions, and needs to these proposals, and this is beautiful and helpful. But if we are to be true to God, who is calling us to be good stewards of the whole church, we must also challenge ourselves to step back and see our decisions as part of “the big picture.” We must ask, “Even if this or that proposal doesn’t meet my particular hopes or interests, is it in the best interest of the entire congregation and the community around us?”

I ask the whole community, near and far, of Franklin Circle Christian Church to be in prayer over the next six months as significant proposals are offered which are projected to retool and rejuvenate this congregation for ministry in this dynamic neighborhood for the future. Healthy, constant, and faithful communication will be critical over the next few months. And, if we are all able to see the church as a whole, with all its wonderful possibilities as well as all its familiar shortcomings, offering everything we do prayerfully to God, I trust we will make the right decisions.

Faithfully Your Pastor,
Allen

Strings Too Short

In her book Calmly Plotting The Resurrection, Donna Schaper tells of Donald E. Hall, the poet laureate of New Hampshire, who happened upon a box in his grandfather’s attic one day. The box was marked “strings too short to save.” He was caught completely off-guard by this seemingly eccentric contradiction, useless bits and pieces but valued anyway, and was able to write a beautiful poem out of its humor.

I have my own connection with this phrase, as the wife of the Senior Pastor with whom I served in New York City was delightfully notorious for saving all manner of things to be used later, for crafts, science projects, displays at church, or who knows what. Whenever I would watch Jensene Payne gather up things to be carefully sorted and saved, things which I would have automatically thrown into the garbage, and she would see me looking, we would both laugh together and say, “This’ll go right next to the box of strings too short to save!”

But reading Schaper’s meditation, I realized what a profound Easter message this humorous little quip is. Isn’t the story of the cross and the empty tomb all about God’s gathering up all of us, too-short and too-tall, misfits and plain-Jane’s and royalty alike, and saving us. Isn’t the Easter story all about folks who, by most estimates, should be tossed out on the garbage bin of history being carefully cared for by God, who sees value and worth more deeply than we humans ever will?

I pray our motto, “Widening The Circle For All God’s Children” isn’t just a cute catchphrase that is great for stationary but forgotten otherwise. For me, it perfectly captures the Resurrection’s most profound meaning and the poet’s deepest delight. We are gathered here on this historic circle not by our own merit or will, but through God’s grace and desire to draw together “the least of these,” the strings “too short to save,” and to save us all in the name of love. Our job is simple: having thus been received, to keep a place open in this remarkable circle of love so that the next misfit can fit right in.

Your Pastor,
Allen

From The Pastor…

Lent is a good time for “taking stock” of things, and so I thought I would use this opportunity to update you on several projects in our congregation’s life:

1. Youth Ministry Position – At the last several Board Meetings we have been discussing the wonderful growth in our youth program and the need for a staff person to oversee this vital part of our congregation’s ministry. A small group has been formed and is preparing a job description to go to the next Board Meeting in April. A search committee will be formed following that and hopefully we will have someone on board by the end of the summer.

2. New Worship Opportunities Team – This team continues to meet and to visit other churches with special worship services and to study what “transforming worship” means. We hope to “play” with a couple of different types of our own alternative services in the coming months. This team probably will not have a proposal ready until the fall.

3. Evangelism & Publicity Team – You may have already seen some of the results of this team’s work. We are being listed in the Plain Dealer’s Saturday worship listing, and there was a display ad for the Anniversary Celebration in the February 3 Plain Dealer. Watch for new t-shirts in the spring!

4. Pastor’s Class – for the first time in my ministry here we have enough youth to have a full-fledged Pastor’s Class! Eight young people over the weekend of February 23-24 will explore what discipleship and church membership mean, looking especially at the beliefs and structure of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Holy Communion, Baptism, and the Good Confession. Those who choose to proceed will be baptized on Palm Sunday, April 1.

5. Church Pictorial Directory – We hit a snag with some technological problems in creating our own directory, but we are working this out. Expect another round of photographs soon and a directory following.

I invite you to pray for these, and other exciting developments in the life of our church as illustrated in this newsletter. Likewise, take some time in the coming days to look at your own life, taking stock of what is working well and what isn’t, and use this reflective season to recommit yourself to that which brings you joy, grace, peace, and love and clear away those things that distract and defeat you. May God be with us all in these ventures.

God’s Grace Is Abundant,
Pastor Allen

The Next Six Years!

Some members of the congregation were very observant! They noticed that as part of the 2007 budget explanation, offered by our Treasurer, Randy Buckingham, the guest preaching honorarium was larger than usual because of the possibility of your pastor going on sabbatical leave this year. Unfortunately, the concept of a sabbatical is unfamiliar enough to confuse some folks, who thought it meant that I was leaving Franklin Circle Christian Church. Nothing could be further from the truth. As a matter of fact, knowing that I am discussing a sabbatical with the Board of Elders should reassure you that I intend to continue serving as your pastor!

Well, let me offer a few brief words about this discussion to help all of us understand what will be happening over the next couple of years. It is typical for churches to offer their pastor, after anywhere from five to seven years of service, a time of sabbatical, or renewal leave. I am approaching my sixth anniversary with the congregation in April and therefore began the conversation with the Elders, who will oversee my sabbatical. At our last meeting it became clear that 2007 will be dedicated to planning this time away for both me and for the congregation, but that I will not actually be on sabbatical until 2008.

The time away is usually three months and includes study, spiritual retreat, and rest. It is not vacation time, but intentional time for both the pastor (me) and the congregation (you) to review the direction in which we are currently headed, listen to God as to the direction we should be heading, hone skills we already have and gain new ones needed for the journey ahead, pray for each other, and perhaps even learn new and healthier ways of relating to one another.

I also see it as a time to focus on an aspect of my ministry that intersects with the mission God has for Franklin Circle Christian Church, to delve into that facet more deeply and gain wisdom about the best practices available from some of the premier congregations and leaders in that particular area. This gives me great energy and excitement, imagining a new chapter in my ministry here at Franklin Circle Christian Church.

If you would like to know more about clergy sabbaticals, please go on the web to: http://www.homelandministries.org/Ministers/MinistryGuidelines/sabbatical.htm . If you would instead like to have this resource in print format, please call the church office and we will mail you a copy.

I am pleased to be your pastor, and am looking forward to growing with you into God’s marvelous future!
God’s Grace Is Abundant!
Pastor Allen

I think I shall begin 2007 on a very simple note by sharing with you a stanza from one of my very favorite poems by one of my very favorite poets. This poem, part of a much longer and intricate series of poems, speaks of the interconnectedness of life, especially of the movement of the seasons of year. I offer it to you as a prayer that as our congregation journeys on, and though what we experience may seem all-too familiar, we can enjoy life in new and ever more profound ways if we but humbly rely upon one another and carefully look for the beauty along the way.
Have a blessed New Year!

We shall not cease from exploration
And the end of all our exploring
Will be to arrive where we started
And know the place for the first time.
Through the unknown, unremembered gate
When the last of earth left to discover
Is that which was the beginning;
At the source of the longest river
The voice of the hidden waterfall
And the children in the apple-tree
Not known, because not looked for
But heard, half-heard, in the stillness
Between two waves of the sea.
Quick now, here, now, always—
A condition of complete simplicity
(Costing not less than everything)
And all shall be well and
All manner of thing shall be well
When the tongues of flame are in-folded
Into the crowned knot of fire
And the fire and the rose are one.

LITTLE GIDDING
(No. 4 of 'Four Quartets')
T.S. Eliot

The Thanksgiving/Advent/Christmas/New Years holiday season is filled with such mixed emotions for many of us. We are so grateful to God for the gifts we have received this past year, but cannot forget those who struggle to make ends meet. We look forward to the world around us dressing in “holiday style,” but the pressure to get our own list of things done begins pressing in. We recognize the powerful moment in creation’s history when the babe of Bethlehem was born, but we can’t help remembering those near and dear to us who have died. We make our resolutions for a healthy, happy, and holy New Year trying to ignore the unfinished list we began last year with such enthusiasm.

But this paradox is exactly why we should be celebrating the holiday! We are all human, and our days on this earth will always be numbered, yet the holiday arrives anew, fresh and exciting. Our prayers of thanksgiving will include commitments to share with those in need and change the systems of injustice. Perhaps the smile that comes from seeing twinkling lights along the street or evergreens with bright bows in doorways might just provide a new lilt for our step as we get our tasks done. The Christ Child came so that those who have died might know resurrection’s joy and those of us who are still alive might have hope. And resolutions remind us that every day – even January 1st – is a new chance for resurrection!

Grace & Peace,
Pastor Allen

Signs Of The Spirit In November

Well, so much has been happening around Franklin Circle Christian Church that it is hard to know where to begin and what to say. Let me begin by saying I believe the Holy Spirit is at work in our congregation in new and exciting ways. What causes me to believe this? Here are a few hints:

> Our youth program has grown tremendously in the past few months. Under the guidance of Patty Groetsch and Jean Borrelli, and the leadership of Joe Bobak and Ronda Wenzel, the youth are creating a vibrant program. Many ideas are in the works, and we are doing a great deal of research in order to bring to the Trustees and the Board some proposals to insure that our youth program will continue to thrive.

> We had a large turnout for the first meeting of the New Worship Initiatives Team where we “brainstormed” ideas for a possible new worship service. Clearly there is energy around the idea of providing other worship opportunities, especially for those in our neighborhood who do not find our wonderful traditional service the best way for them to experience God’s presence and offer God praise. The next meeting of the Team (and new folks are always invited) will be Sunday, November 12 following the Community Hour. Each month we will also be visiting other churches with second services – and taking notes!

> The Mission Council has new energy and a vision for how programming in our congregation can continue to be revitalized and can renew the entire congregation. A proposal will be coming to the Board, and then the congregation, to extend the temporary By Law changes we made a year ago for at least 6 more months. The officers will suggest this in order to more fully evaluate the changes and make proposals to the Board that have been carefully and prayerfully considered.

> Finally, I feel that our Elders, Diaconate, and Trustees are understanding more fully the central role they play in the transformation of this congregation from a 20th Century Congregation to a 21st Century Mission Station. With deep faithfulness, and renewed purpose, they are seeking to follow God’s leading.

That’s a snapshot of where the energy is coming from at this moment in our history. I hope you agree, great things are happening at FCCC!

Gratefully Your Pastor,
Allen

October 2006

What is important and what isn't important? Such questions arise for leaders of any organization, and the church is no different. It has been coming up a lot lately, in part as people look to my leadership to see the direction the church is headed and (more preferably) as members of the church look to one another to discover passions, gifts, interests, needs, and energies to set the direction of Franklin Circle Christian Church.
What should be our priorities? Oh how I wish I could take the words of the writer of the letter to the Colossians literally:

It sounds both appealing and saintly, but exactly what does it mean to "set your mind on things above?" As I first read these words, it seemed a bit out-of-touch and spiritually naive to say, "set your mind on things above." As a leader in this church, I want to ask the gritty, hands-on questions about priorities and directions, such as "What priorities will put this church in the right position to thrive into the 21st century?" and "How much of our accumulated resources are we willing to spend to undergird our mission-word with our mission-deeds?

But upon reflection, I wonder if the writer of Colossians isn't helping us to see that we need to begin with prayer and with an "out-of-body" perspective, if you will. What I mean by that is that as followers of Christ we shouldn't begin with the practical questions of who and how much and when and where because these tend to make us focused only on our needs, our perspectives, and be confined by our prejudices, our fears, and our limitations.

Perhaps to think on "things above" is to invite us to first be spiritual beings, seeking a larger perspective and a broader wisdom when setting priorities and directions. When we begin with deep and profound prayer, we are inevitably led to the prayer of Christ in the Garden, "not my will, but thine." This may (most certainly will) cause us to decide upon terribly unpopular directions or even priorities that are not our own, but, rather, are the needs of the community as a whole.

The biblical writer was addressing, in part, the complicated volumes of religious rules and regulations that made being a faithful person in 1st century Palestine a burden. Much like the founders of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) struggled with the convoluted rules of the church of the early 1800's, they knew instinctively that too much earthly stuff is bound to get in the way of the God-stuff. It is a bit risky, walking by faith and not by the sight of the obvious, the tried-and-true, the measurable ... but it's definitely more rewarding. Having the "mind of Christ" helps us to set our course as followers of Christ, and not simply follow the hungers of our earthly bodies and minds.

I'm not sure exactly where we are headed as a congregation right now, but I do trust that we are a faithful group of prayerful folks who will look up from our own agendas in order to watch for the guiding star which will lead us on the Way. May Franklin Circle Christian Church find Christ is our life and be then, and only then, "revealed with him in glory!"

God's Grace Is Abundant!
Pastor Allen

Throughout the month of September our congregation will be taken on a little ride, with the youth of our church in the driver’s seat. This will be good for us. Hopefully sitting in the passenger seat will help us understand the needs and wants of our young people better so that we can hear how God is calling us to serve them more fully.

Each Sunday youth will be serving in leadership capacities in worship. On Sunday, September 10, which is Rally Day, the youth will have a more extensive leadership role. On the last Sunday of the month they have invited the entire church to join them for a light lunch after worship. This will nourish us as we head to a board meeting at which the youth will be presenting several proposals for our consideration.

It is important for us to really hear the call of the young people… those who have found their way into our church as well as those in the neighborhood that are longing for guidance, safe space, and a place to explore God’s love for them.

What can you do as a church member to help our youth? There are several things. First, you can get to know them and learn their names. Nothing shows you care more than really knowing who someone is, and rejoicing each time you see them. Second, ask them what they want and need from the church. Don’t assume you know – ask. Pray for all youth, those adults leading them, and for our After School Program, Youth Sunday School Class, and new programs as they arise that put a face on God to youth.

And third, be prepared for our congregation to take some faithful risks to truly reach out to our youth. We no longer live in the day when they will simply come to the church because that’s the “thing to do.” We’ve got to actively seek to reach them, listen to them, respond to them. Their salvation – and ours – depends upon it.

God’s Grace Is Abundant,
Pastor Allen

"Leadership" as a concept is batted about a lot these days by authors and experts. Many of these leadership gurus are making a good deal of money and many of them are sharing significant ideas that are improving the effectiveness of businesses and non-profit organizations alike. The jury is still out on whether or not the ones making the big bucks and the ones promoting good ideas are the same.

I've been watching the lectionary over the summer and have noticed the Epistle selections have been from the writings of Paul, many of which are all about leadership in the early church. Paul doesn't sugarcoat the situation. He knows firsthand that leadership isn't for the weak of heart, even in the church which extols such seemingly easy-going character traits as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Even Paul, who stands as the premier model for all disciples in witnessing to the world about the message and meaning of Jesus Christ, had his obstacles.

What I keep reminding myself is that leadership isn't about any one person or one group in the church. Yes, there are leaders that are necessary for our church to fulfill its calling, from Al Betts, our new Board Chair, to Joe Bobak who leads our Acolytes. But if we spend all our time focusing on the particular qualities of persons who are leaders, we may very well miss the "prize of the high calling to which we are called." It's a "catch 22," and Paul knew it. We need to call people who are qualified and spirit-led, and we need to call our leaders to their very best selves in their service, but ultimately we must stay focused on the mission and ministry of Jesus Christ.

How did Paul do it? He recognized that no matter how difficult the road, how painful the criticisms, how far away the goal seemed, ultimately it was not about him, but about the grace and love of God for the world. In 2 Corinthians 12 he reminded us poignantly of this fact when he wrote, "[God reminds me,] 'My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness.' So, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. Therefore I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities for the sake of Christ; for whenever I am weak, then I am strong." He knew that God called him to offer his very best to the church, Christ's body on earth, but that the Mission was there before Paul ever came along and the Mission would continue long after Paul had died.

On Saturday, August 26 at 9 a.m. all leaders in our congregation are invited to attend our annual "Leadership Workshop" where we will seek to equip our Diaconate, Elders, Trustees, and other leaders for the task of ministry in the coming year at Franklin Circle Christian Church. We won't be able to do in one morning everything that is needed to prepare ourselves, but we will do a few significant things to get us facing in the right direction. My hope is that if we do anything, we will help one another recognize that true leadership is not about us, but about God, and that we will that morning offer ourselves again to God, with both our weaknesses and strengths, to the glory of God.

May it be so.
Your Pastor, Allen

In the last week I have come to recognize, and you probably have also, that with the death of Bob Mock our congregation has lost, for the first time since I was called to be your pastor, a true and undeniable pillar of the church. Bob's beloved wife, Eleanor, had died almost two years before I became pastor, and while the ripples from that loss were still being felt throughout the community, I had not had the privilege of knowing her nor the great sadness in experiencing the loss directly.

But now, as if with a wisp of the wind, Bob is gone. A gentle, fun-loving, and strong man is no longer with us. So many people knew Bob, whether by name or not, as the ever present smiling face that welcomed them, along with Ted Brogan, to worship each Sunday morning. Passing out bulletins, taking attendance, and managing unforeseen circumstances, Bob and Ted acted as ever-dutiful" stage managers" for the weekly drama of worship that we would offer to our God in thanksgiving and joy. At the funeral Ted reminded us that he, Bob, and Ralph Eyring had been chosen and trained by the best of the ushers, Col. Walter Mills, and Bob faithfully executed that responsibility for almost 60 years.

As I write this, I am also preparing for the dedication of Kelly Jo Brown, the beautiful newborn of Allan and Michelle Brown. I was privileged to visit Kelly Jo just minutes after her birth on May 26. She is happy, healthy, and in addition to having devoted, loving parents and family members, is already an integral part of the Franklin Circle Christian Church family.

Is it too simplistic, too syrupy to point out what my heart seems to know instinctively, that the great mystery of life as God has created it involves in some way, shape, or form a marvelous cycle of birth, life, death, and birth again? I pray it does not dishonor Bob nor burden Kelly Jo to make the connections that seem so natural, that somehow there is great meaning to one life passing and another just beginning. What I mean to say is that I find great comfort in the face of the pain of losing one so dear as Bob by welcoming one so dear as Kelly Jo.

I cannot take away the sadness that is running deep through this congregation since word went out of the unexpected death of Bob Mock. I suppose I wouldn't remove it if I could, because the tears shall serve to emblazon Bob's memory once-and-for-all on our hearts. But what I will do is allow it to settle quickly, because Kelly Jo needs us to be her church for her now, not just later. May the time, energy, and love we offer her, and all the children and youth of our church, in the same way impress upon our memories Robert Lee Mock for all time.

May each of us find the Holy Spirit mightily and lovingly at work in the cycles of our lives and loves.
Your Pastor,
Allen

Note: There will be no Widening The Circle Forums in July and August in order to plan and publicize the topics for the fall, beginning with the Thursday, September 28, 7 p.m. Forum featuring the PBS documentary "Flag Wars" and discussing gentrification and neighborhood economic diversity.

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June, 2006

Transformation Is God’s Work

On Pentecost Sunday, June 4, we are going to celebrate both the birth of the church and its renewal at the same time. Pentecost, the holiday in which Christians celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit to the followers of Christ as recorded in scripture in Acts 2, marks the beginnings of the church as we know it. Five years ago, on Pentecost Sunday, June 3, 2001, we came together to mark the inauguration of Franklin Circle Christian Church’s “Redevelopment Congregation” program. This Anniversary Celebration will incorporate both.

It’s always important to celebrate birthdays, and as those of you who know me know that I love to celebrate Pentecost. And while the three-year Redevelopment Program is officially over, the transformation of our congregation must be an on-going process just as it is for any community of faith that wishes to remain vibrant, relevant, and faithful. So the first Sunday in June, 2006, will be a time for us to remind ourselves of the mission God gave the church as the winds of the Spirit blew across people gathered from near and far AS WELL AS the mission God gives our congregation here in this place and in this day.

There are several areas that I see will take priority for the next few years if we are going to thrive and flourish as a mission center for God on the Near West Side of Cleveland. In no particular order, they are:
1.) We need to evaluate and settle on a format for our programmatic work now being done by the Mission Council, as well as the other temporary changes made last fall. This should be part of an overall, and long-overdue, look at our Constitution and By-Laws.

2.) We need to be more intentional about nurturing our leadership, spiritually and with specific training, as well as consistently developing new leaders for the future.

3.) We need a comprehensive long-term mission plan that helps us decide how to wisely and faithfully invest our time, energy, and money in ways that are unique to our congregation and specific to our setting and time.

4.) We need to create and invest in a coordinated and creative plan for evangelism, telling the Good News of what God is doing in, with, and through our congregation.

5.) We need to consider additional opportunities for worship that allows others who may not find our traditional service the most fulfilling way to praise God.

Ultimately, however, we must remind ourselves again and again, that this work, as critical as it is and as much as it calls us to prayer and action, is God’s work. Nothing will succeed if we think that any one of us is either indispensable or disposable. We may plant the seed, water it, nourish it, protect it, reap its fruit… but God, and God alone, gives the growth.

Gratefully Your Pastor,
Allen

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April 2006

I believe this with all my heart, soul, and strength. I am finding that I am reminding myself of this truth more frequently than ever before these days as the wars in which our country is engaged continue longer than any of us had ever imagined, and as the divide between neighbors of means and neighbors in poverty grows deeper and wider with each new government policy decision and community battle.

It is the profound and paradoxical truth of our faith, where Good Friday is inextricably bound to Easter Sunday, that no matter how long sorrow and fear may last, hope comes. Life always trumps death. Resurrection is God's ever new “final word.”

During this time of social and political trauma, where government secrecy and intrusion abound, political ethics are called into question by our highest elected officials, and civil communal dialogue is at an all-time premium, we need to reflect seriously on the way of Jesus and take to heart, live, and proclaim his methods as guides for our time.

Jesus, who “did not regard equality with God a thing to be exploited,” refused to assume power over others was a goal to be obtained. Jesus, who “emptied himself,” refused to believe that the purpose of life was to get and take and consume everything a person could, but to give and let go and find a clearing for true spiritual riches. Jesus, who “taking the form of a slave… humbled himself,” recognized that the ultimate personal realization meant being a seeker, becoming vulnerable, and serving others. Jesus, who “became obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross,” bore witness to the truth that life is not some static element to be held onto at all cost, but that death can be a beautiful gift, if given in humility, honesty, and love.

I encourage each of us to not let the situations of our world drain our lifeblood and cause us to retreat into an isolated shell. I confess the temptation to do so is enormous for me. Instead, let us turn again to Jesus, always crucified and always resurrected, to lead us into new life. Let us do what needs to be done to take care of ourselves, but let us not tarry there too long. The exciting, transforming, renewing work of bringing new life to our world… and ourselves… needs to be done. Yes, the Holy Week/Easter story is as counterculture as it can be, but that should only energize us for our tasks, for it is also ultimate truth. Believe the Good News: Every day is a new possibility for resurrection!

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February 2006

Originating in the fourth century of the church, the season of Lent spans 40 weekdays beginning on Ash Wednesday and climaxing during Holy Week with Holy Thursday (Maundy Thursday), Good Friday, and concluding Saturday before Easter. Originally, Lent was the time of preparation for those who were to be baptized, a time of concentrated study and prayer before their baptism at the Easter Vigil.
Today, Lent is marked by a time of prayer and preparation to celebrate Easter. Since Sundays celebrate the resurrection of Jesus, the six Sundays that occur during Lent are not counted as part of the 40 days of Lent. The number 40 is connected with many biblical events, but especially with the forty days Jesus spent in the wilderness preparing for his ministry.

Lent has traditionally been marked by penitential prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Some churches today still observe a rigid schedule of fasting on certain days during Lent, especially the giving up of meat, alcohol, sweets, and other types of food. Other traditions do not place as great an emphasis on fasting, but focus on charitable deeds, especially helping those in physical need with food and clothing, or simply the giving of money to charities. Most Christian churches that observe Lent at all focus on it as a time of prayer, especially penance, repenting for failures and sin as a way to focus on the need for God’s grace. It is really a preparation to celebrate God’s marvelous redemption at Easter, and the resurrected life that we live, and hope for, as Christians.
Ash Wednesday, the seventh Wednesday before Easter Sunday, is the first day of the Season of Lent. This year it falls on March 1. Its name comes from the ancient practice of placing ashes on worshippers’ foreheads as a sign of humility before God, a symbol of mourning and sorrow at the death that sin brings into the world. It not only prefigures the mourning at the death of Jesus.

(I am indebted to Dennis Bratcher of the Christian Resource Institute for information for this article.)

Finding Words To Talk About Race

Maria Luisa Tucker, whose mother is an Ecuadorian immigrant and whose father is from a Southern white ranching family has written a marvelous article entitled "Finding Words To Talk About Race." In a clear, simple, and unapologetic way she observes, "In a post-civil rights world, my generation grew up obeying a polite colorblindness, a denial of difference. For decades, we quietly ignored race, which meant we ignored discrimination, and we shrank from talking about racial or ethnic tensions. Today, primarily because of Hurricane Katrina, Americans have finally acknowledged that, actually, we do have to talk about race. We're just having trouble finding the right words."

She speaks of a deep and profound truth when she suggests that, "What's needed are a million personal conversations between ordinary Americans. The complexities and nuances of color and culture, the disparities of wealth and education are best understood by learning the stories of each others' lives. Ordinary people are the true experts in cross-racial, cross-ethnic dialogue, if only we would start talking."

Providing a place for at least a few of these conversations is exactly what I am hoping for as I facilitate the monthly "Widening The Circle Forums." The first forum in January has not happened by the time I needed to write this article for the Messenger, but I do want the congregation to know the intense importance I am placing on the conversations. The next one will take place on Thursday, February 23 at 7:00 p.m. All are invited, and leaders of the congregation are especially urged to attend.

Part of the difficulty in discussing such heart-felt and oftentimes volatile topics as race, gender, class, and sexuality is that we simply have to use labels to do so. Like most people, labels grate against my
nerves for they never do justice to who a human being is. Labels quickly lead to stereotypes, which is the fundamental element of prejudice. I've told many of you that I believe in a perfect world there would be absolutely no need for labels. However, we do not live in a perfect world. So, I do acknowledge the necessary usefulness of labels, but only as long as we all understand labels never tell the whole story about any single individual nor group of people. Neither should we get the label mixed up with person. When this happens, we begin the terrible downward spiral talking about "those people" or, more simply, "them."

So, we must use labels cautiously and sparingly, for to avoid doing so completely leaves us with no language to talk about very real problems that exist in our very real world. If you don't think there's a
problem, then you aren't reading the newspaper, watching television, listening to the radio, or aren't in honest conversation with someone who is quite different from you. Maria Luisa's stories, both from her
childhood and from as recently as a couple of years ago, remind us all that "The world is full of people who unthinkingly buy into racism and prejudice. " But as people of good faith, we cannot let such
perspectives rule the day. Even though it is difficult, and certainly uncomfortable to talk about "our prejudices, our color, our deeply felt experiences," because to do so "means exposing ourselves and our families." Maria Luisa, and I, conclude regarding the conversation about racism, "Given the choice, we'd rather not talk about it. But given the state of things, we should try."

Let's talk. Come on February 26.

Your Pastor,
Allen

P.S. I have copies of the entire article, or you can read it online
at: http://www.alternet.org/story/30755/