Harvest Festival March 4th

It's been awhile since I've had a chance to "speak" in this medium - the power outages and the computer server problems last weekend made internet access a nightmare. Yet those issues were secondary to the growing amount of work that lays before me. I'll try to catch up a bit with last week's surprises.

The first was the Harvest Cantata at South District, the little church of the Bethel Circuit and the one that I am assigned to. The Cantata started @ 4 pm and the place was packed! I had an unusual role from others' perspectives, but one that was not that unusual for me in my past - I sang in the choir! It was one of the
first real decisions I made in my searching to become integrated into this little faith community as quickly as possible. I call it the Ministry of Presence and I enjoyed it immensely.

What I didn't anticipate was the perspective that I would have this evening of the whole celebration. Sitting up front and not in a role of direct responsibility for facilitation allowed me to watch everyone in attendance. It was very good to note the smiles and relaxation on peoples' faces. I'm glad I'm not the only one who smiles from ear to ear when young children and teens share of themselves.

I also noted how very tired the clergy (called presbyters) were. As I begin to sense the rhythm of this system of being church and watch to see what these leaders are being asked to do, I am left with many, many questions and even a few insights that will be valuable I think for when I return to my own system in The United Church of Canada.

Then the real surprise happened! During the offering, there was a scurry of activity as a number of cymbals (we would call them tambourines) came out for the song of praise. I was just floored! The way that the people played them - the way that the whole room exploded with energy - the way that the tiring faces became alive - the way that the children focused and moved their bodies - the obvious to me thorough enjoyment of the moments - what an amazing gift that way of praising was! Even as I write, one week later, I can feel the amazement and energy in my being.

After the service I remarked to many people in that congregation that those cymbals may be their greatest gift to the community of faith and the people who live outside of these walls. I think that to a small extent the people were taken aback by my "gushing" of affirmation, although I've come to understand that South District is a church known throughout the area for this particular gift. I hope I never lose that sensation inside of me from this experience!

The evening went well and as I settled on the porch at Basil and Mary's, I began to reflect on what it was I felt at South District that was distinctly different than any of the other Harvest Festivals. I have much to still contemplate, but I'm wondering if there is a simplicity to this gathered community that I find very appealing.

Blessings till next time!