Busy Busy

Wow, I can't believe how fast this semester is flying by! It feels like our Christmas break ended just a few days ago...

School is going well, the classes are great and we're learning a lot. I love them all, but especially Greek and New Testament, which are the two where we actually learn about and discuss Jesus, of all things!

In addition to school, I have also applied to work part time at a small church about 50 miles from Sewanee. If it all pans out, I'll be leading their worship services on non-Communion Sundays, helping out with pastoral care and doing some projects focused on church growth. The church has been around since the 1870's and they have a beautiful facility in the heart of a little town. The congregation is warm and friendly and I could tell the Holy Spirit was moving in awesome ways the moment I stepped into their sanctuary. I'm so excited about this, it would be a good position for someone just graduating from seminary, but for a student it is a dream.

Marti and the kids are doing great. We just got back from a short spring break trip to Nantahala National Forest in NC. We had 4 days and 3 nights with some of our fellow seminarians and their kids. We went on a few hikes, did some fishing, and played lots of board games (it was cold and rainy). Mostly we just relaxed and had some much needed fun! BTW, Joshua can walk with no assistance! (Oh Lord, he is into everything...)

I will be in Sewanee for Easter, but Marti and the boys are flying to Jacksonville. They can't wait to see everyone at St. Andrew's. The boys still miss home a lot and the transition remains a constant topic of discussion. For better or worse, every thing and every person gets compared to their counterpart back in Florida. I think it shows that real growth always comes with some pain and that real love does too. It is an odd thing to see your child hurt and know that it is not only ok, but actually the best thing for them. Growing up is rough, but necessary; although we do try to blunt the sharp edges as best we can.

The reason I can't go to Jacksonville is that Sewanee's Holy Week is mandatory. This is ok, because according to veteran Episcopalians from all over the country, it is absolutely amazingly well done; grand and reverent. All of us new students are very excited, but the middlers and seniors are just as thrilled. It is a huge affair involving the University chapel's two chaplains, half a dozen priests from the seminary faculty, both choirs, bunches of acolytes, readers, organists, etc. All this is for one purpose: celebrating the Resurrection of our Savior!

My final comment is a thanks to Harry Crosby and Gary Walker. They spent a few evenings last week replacing the failed water heater in our house in Jacksonville. It would have cost a mint to have had a plumber install that thing, you guys are the best! Thanks!

My love and affection to all of you, have a blessed Lent and a Holy Easter!

Jon