During the month of November I will have the privilege of taking part in two exciting Continuing Education events. The first is provided by our own New England Conference and will take place November 6th – 8th in Bloomfield, CT. The theme of the School of Congregational this year is WOW: Walk on Water. Through worship, plenary, and workshops we will explore what it means to step out in faith. This is an event for both laity and clergy and all are welcome to attend!

The second is a little farther from home! The third week of November I will be flying west to attend the Lombard Mennonite Peace Center’s Mediation Skills Training. This is a week long institute designed for church leaders. The focus of the institute is conflict management and leadership skills.

I tell you about these for two reasons. First, I want to thank you for your support. It is difficult for a pastor to take advantage of these educational opportunities without the support and encouragement of his or her congregation! Second, I want to affirm the importance of continuing Christian education! United Methodist clergy are encouraged (some might say required) by our Book of Discipline to participate in at least two education programs every year. This follows the model of education that John Wesley, the founder of the Methodist movement, put forth. Wesley had a rigorous education program for his preachers. He also required the early Methodist followers to be part of class meetings and societies for education and spiritual formation. Wesley knew that Christian education isn’t just for children. It’s for life!

At South Church we do take education seriously. What a blessings it is that we currently have five adult Sunday School classes, along with our regular Friday morning Bible Study. If you haven’t taken advantage of one of these classes, please do so. As I tell our Confirmands every year, Christian education doesn’t end at Confirmation. In fact, it is just the beginning!

Soon I will be back from my weekend at “WOW” and my week of mediation skills training. I’m sure I will have a lot to share with you. May God bless us all as we learn and grow in Christ!