In-Between Times

 Rev. Gail Benson, Interim Minister

The longest day of the year has just past as I write this article for the July News. Funny how the turning of the Earth and the change in the length of the days can go unnoticed for many of us. We live so engrossed in our private lives and thoughts that we miss the very real hum of the universe in its steady and predicable movements.   It is only in those moments when the routine and predictable shift, perhaps an earthquake or a heavy storm, that our attention is grabbed and our lack of awareness is startled into a new perception. We become attentive in a new way, with new energy.

The same is true of our relationship with the church. When a pastor leaves, it is very obvious that someone new is in the pulpit and we notice differences very easily. When we have worshipped with the same worship style and the same hymns, it is apparent when things are different. Becoming attentive in a new way, with new energy is an important part of a transition journey. This is not to say it will be easy or comfortable. It is not to say that this is a good thing or a bad thing. It is to say that new observations are opportunities to question the status quo and reflect on one’s responses.

Your Transition Team is reading Temporary Shepherds, a book written to support churches in times of transitions. They will begin to plan and lead opportunities to study and reflect on the faith journey of Seaside Community Church. Please participate. As we journey in faith together, let us be attentive to our reflections, memory and history which can offer insight and wisdom with which to move through this interim time, discerning God’s call in this time and in this place and visioning the future for SCC.  

May it be so. Pastor Gail