I left on a long-planned vacation to London after our anniversary party, so I didn’t get the chance to say “thank you” for the wonderful anniversary party. 10 years we’ve been together! Thank you to the Ministerial Search Team that brought me here 10 years ago, and organized this year’s party, thank you to the Board for arranging such generous gifts (I can’t wait to wear my new stole this Sunday!), the memory book and banner, and thank you to everyone who cooked, baked, decorated, and cleaned up. It truly is such an honor to serve this congregation.

London was a wonderful experience. We walked or took the Tube into all the different parts of the city, really getting to know the town. The big thing we went for was a special exhibit of the art of Vincent Van Gogh at the National Gallery. We loved it, and also enjoyed being around so many other people who clearly loved Van Gogh. (I made a short tiktok about our connection with Van Gogh here where you can see photos of the art pieces.)

It was absolutely a vacation, but Live Oak was still with me in spirit. I returned home with my phone filled with notes and photos that will be turning up in sermons, including a picture of an object that will be perfect for the Sunday after the election. (Spoilers!) And I was glad to get home and back to work, because we have so many things on the horizon, including the Fall Festival this Sunday. (Have you signed up to help? It’s still needed!

It has been said that the best trips are those that change us, and I do feel changed by the experience. I would love to know what trips you’ve taken that have changed you – drop me a note! minister@liveoakuu.org