Today was a day of trying to gain a new perspective.  As a church community several dozen of us gathered to discuss a long-range plan for our parish. This was the beginning of a year-long process. Three hours of deep conversation will hopefully lead us to a stronger future. We have been struggling for some time, and changes have impacted our numbers and our finances. Most importantly, souls have suffered. People have been lost along the way and with prayer some may find their way back to a fold.

I greeted many of those gathered; I only did not know a handful. Many were long-time parishioners who I consider pillars of the church. My own journey has been over 25 years now and I have left many fingerprints over the parish and its work. Despite this, I felt small listening to the big problems and the fears.

I came home to my mouse problem and realize that there are quite a few so it is officially a mice problem. I have discovered their hole though so with any luck my landlord will fix that. My frustration is high. I am officially creeped out by them. I hear them pattering around the house and know that they are creating a health problem for me. I do not like to be in my kitchen right now and so I have consented that they must go in whatever way they can.  I do not like killing but I know that they are smart and cocky. They know how to hide and how to create havoc.

I think about both these events and feel in some ways our church has had a mouse problem for some years now. The foundation is being nibbled at, and there is a spiritual health problem now. I pray that God will intervene and sweep clean this House, restoring it to a clean and upright spirit where people can come to the table and be fed well.

Peace,

Suzanne