6-month check in
It's been a busy few months and, as I approach the 6-month mark of my appointment at NoHo First UMC, I thought it was important to sit down and reflect. This is a note I wrote to the people of NoHo First UMC:
I have just returned from a busy week of Annual Conference and amid all the legislation and meetings, it was great to catch up with friends and colleagues. One of the often-asked questions directed my way as I ran into old friends and colleagues, was this: “How’s your new appointment at NoHo First?” I would mentioned a few of my observations after 6 months of ministry with you and then I would conclude: “It’s a good fit.” This phrase is shorthand in Methodist circles for the compatibility between a congregation and their pastor. In describing the work of the Cabinet in appointment-making, there is an attempt to match the needs of a community with the gifts and passion of a pastor. But matching over 350 churches in Southern California, Hawaii, Guam and Saipan with a complimentary pastor seems like an extraordinarily complex project and, I imagine, is only accomplished with a lot of luck, fortunate timing and God’s direct intervention. So when I say “It’s a good match,” it is really the recognition of a miracle.
One of the aspects of ministry that connects us is our passion for mission. My mission-centered work has applied generally to international ministry and particularly to children in rural India, and yours has been focused on your local community. But both are rooted in our understanding of Jesus’ commandment in Matthew 22: 37-40, when asked about the Greatest Commandment:
“Jesus replied, ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
Your “love of neighbor” was demonstrated almost immediately as I began ministry with you, when the January wildfires destroyed communities and churches in Pacific Palisades and Altadena. A relationship was forged between our “Love Thy Neighbor” mission team and the LA Gateway Ranger District Office Little Tujunga Station, and for many weeks, we provided snacks, eye drops, energy drinks, wet wipes and other essentials for those courageously battling the fires. Our children made “thank you” cards for the firefighters and we participated in the North District Prayer Service and the “Still Here, Still Strong” event to bring hope and resources to our brothers and sisters of the Altadena United Methodist Church.
You love to celebrate. You love a party (especially with food) to honor diverse cultures, important people, accomplishments like graduations and birthdays and holidays! In such a troubled world, your ability to celebrate, to find joy and to love one another is amazing and it gives me HOPE.
There are problems and challenges, of course, as there are in any church community. But this is a good match and I thank God for bringing us together. May our next year bring continuous growth toward God’s loving and compassionate Kingdom.
Blessings,
Pastor Krista