From Jaimie: “And then I decided to go to grad school...”

I think of this meme every time I feel the strain everything happening in the world and my decision to attend San Francisco Theological Seminary this fall.—Jaimie

Last week, I finished my final exams for courses in Hebrew, Church History and the Hebrew Bible at San Francisco Theological Seminary. In many ways, it feels surreal to attending seminary/graduate school (online). Seminary has always been something on the horizon. To find this opportunity in the midst of so much happening in the world (global pandemic, social unrest, etc.) feels even more significant. Many years ago when I began to feel called to ministry, I could never have expected that I would do the work that I do today in the context of what sometimes feels apocalyptic. However, the work of repair, accompaniment and restoration is so deeply needed in this moment in history.

This semester, I worked a full time schedule and attended seminary full time. My wife experienced significant health struggles (not COVID related, thankfully) and an increased workload at Albion College. (As is the case with every educational system in this country, Albion College is feeling the strain of seismic cultural shifts, pandemic fatigue and student struggles. This is your reminder to be extra kind and generous to the educators in your life.) Each week of this semester was a juggling act between my work life, home life and academic life. By November, it was clear that a change would be needed to make room for graduate school in my life.

With the help of Church Council’s Executive Committee, my wife and the staff at FCC, I have discerned that a part-time work schedule at FCC would be possible starting in January. This will allow me more time for studying and writing each week. One factor that has made this possible is the addition of Chris Fulbright to our staff. He is an energy forward, relational staff member who has been handling much of the front line communication with those who host events (or otherwise use our space) since October. His unique skill set is filling many of the gaps that I have previously filled.

My part time work also includes plans to preach more frequently to free Rev. Nate up to focus on worship and community-building. I will continue the work of supporting staff as head of staff and managing the administration of both the church and the building. However, most of the day-to-day, hands-on work will be handled by our very capable building and administrative staff and volunteers. I will remain in communication and accountability with staff, the Church Council and the Parish Relations Team to make adjustments as needed to ensure the church and building run smoothly as I transition to part time work.

The ministry of the Church is rarely boring. There is always another challenge, another transition and another opportunity just around the corner. I come to work each day not truly knowing what my work day will be like. (It is one of the reasons I am drawn to ministry.) These challenges and the world we find ourselves in today confirms something deep inside of my heart: I know, that I know, that I know that God is with us as we rise up to meet this moment. I am moving into the new year with confidence and trust in God’s ability to meet needs through our staff and volunteers.

“The Lord will guide you continually, and satisfy your needs in parched places, and make your bones strong; and you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters never fail. Your ancient ruins shall be rebuilt; you shall raise up the foundations of many generations; you shall be called the repairer of the breach, the restorer of streets to live in.” (Isaiah 58:11-12 NRSV)