Where in the world was Pastor Myers?

It has been a busy month. Not to mention the year end paperwork that needs to be done for the Church, the preparation for the Board on Ordained ministry interviews, the setting of the vision for this upcoming year at Rockport. All of that alone would have tired me out. But just a little over a week ago Kathryn and I traveled to Taiwan.

We went to honor my father-in-law who was a missionary to Taiwan for over 40 years. They invited us to attend a memorial service. That was our official reason. But what I really wanted to accomplish was to see how that church is "Making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world in Taiwan?"

What we found were five churches that were founded by my father-in-law that are active in reaching their community. We attended a worship service on Sunday while there and they invited the children from the community to attend what they called a "Fun Hour." Not Sunday School, but a "Fun Hour." They were actively reaching out and making disciples of neighbors and friends.

I was also overwhelmed by the work of the Blind School. It was started on a shoestring budget and now boast of just completing a $6 million dollar building project that includes a six story building to accommodate the special needs for the blind children and young adults of Taiwan. I have never seen a program so well run as the program run by Ruth Chen (77)and Joseph (50). This is one program Kathryn and I personally plan to support above and beyond my tithe to the church.

What a blessing to hear that one of the graduates of the Blind School is currently serving as an Ordained pastor in a Local church.

What Kathryn and I found was a church that was serious about Making disciples and were willing to be inconvenienced, to be put out, to support the mission with their own funds if necessary and guess what ... they are making a difference and they are making disciples. The church in Taiwan is a church that is respected because they are involved with those in need and are making a difference in their own community. May we do the same!

All I can say is "shea shea" which means "thank you" to the people of Taiwan who are sacrificing to make a difference in their world. May we do the same!

That's where I was last week. where were you? Church I hope!

peace,

Rev. Dr. Gordon Myers

Transformation

There seems to be disconnect in the world we live in. This is not new, but it has been highlighted by the weakness found in our economy.

There is a catch-phrase, "The New Frugality," that has illuminated a wonderful contradiction in the character of most American families. In a recent poll is was reported that 57% of those surveyed believed that in this new economic environment , the American Dream will be harder to achieve. In the same poll 56% believe that Americas best days are still ahead. These two ideals which seem to be at odds with each other, namely realism and idealism, hardheadedness and optimism, offer the church a unique opportunity to minister.

What is being addressed in the survey is that there is some anxiousness about the future. But what is also addressed in the survey is thatif the right course is set we will be better than we could have ever imagined.

So how does the church minister during such times as these. How does the church help individuals navigate through the uncertainty and see the bright future that can be? How can we help people see the possibilties of a bright future and be willing to do the hard work of retooling our ministry with a forward focus?

You would have to agree that this are interesting times in the life of the church, and you would also have to agree that there is much work to engage in to be prepared to "Make Disciples of Jesus Christ for the Transformation of the World" through the ministries of Rockport United Methodist Church.

Will you be a part of helping that transformation take place?

Peace,

Rev. Dr. Gordon Myers