…and the dancing of my feet…
|
|
This line came into my head this past
Sunday. I'm not in church on Sundays that often, but this was an exception.
We drove to University Christian Church in Seattle for a special to-do in
celebration of ministries and several ministers, including me. It was pouring
down rain.
|
There were 16 of us, many present members
of that church, or some like me who started out there. It was our home church,
the Cathedral church of my denomination in the west at that time. Both Jean
and I were baptized there in our early youth before we knew each other.
We finally met when she asked me to a “last chance leap-year dance.” I didn't
dance and still don't. So I turned her down, but that was the last time.
|
We were active in that church through
youth and student days at the University of Washington. In fact, I was Minister
of Youth for one year. We were married there and all our children were dedicated
there. After seminary I was ordained there. 50 years ago last June. So it
was a coming home moment.
|
The 16 of us are an interesting group.
Only three ended their careers as pastors of congregations. The rest of
us had been in other activities, many only semi-church related. There is
a therapist, an attorney, a teacher of medical ethics, a university administrator,
a seminary administrator and teacher, a YMCA executive, two state ecumenical
executives, a business man, and me. I'm not quite sure what you call me.
The church, however, recognized us for our varied ministries. We were all
presented certificates. Some of us were presented with an “Honored Ministers
Pin” which our Pension Fund awards.
|
I wasn't expecting an Honored Ministers
Pin. Another thing I didn't expect was a standing ovation. Someone stood
and started applauding and pretty soon the whole congregation joined in.
That was a most unusual experience. At least for me. I have never received
a standing ovation either as an individual or part of a group. It was nice,
but a bit embarrassing. Looking along the line however, and knowing the accomplishments
of some of my colleagues, I could agree they were worthy of applause.
|
One of our number, Jim Stockdale, also
a 50 year veteran and long time former pastor of that church, gave a great
sermon. And the choir did a couple of jazzed up little numbers (musicians
would probably have a better name for it) that added a good spirit to the
occasion.
|
I had a moment at the conclusion of
the service to speak the benediction. I don't do that kind of thing very
often anymore. I wore the special Moment Ministries stole that was presented
to me in a special ceremony on our deck at the cabin by Marlene Lorenzen
who made it. I stood at the Lectern microphone to pronounce the closing
words.
|
I explained that my benediction for
the day would be familiar to those present 50 years ago during the ministry
of John Paul Pack. Only a few would know who he was but some said they remembered
that benediction. It was the same benediction I used at the conclusion of
my ordination. The benediction is not remarkable in any way except for a
memorable line that John Paul included. I don't know whether he invented or
borrowed it. I've underlined that line below.
|
The benediction goes like this: (I had
the congregation repeat it after me)
May the words of my mouth, and the
meditations of my heart
and
the deep and abiding desires of my life
be acceptable
in Thy sight, O God my strength and my redeemer. Amen
|
The organ postlude began with spirit
and vigor as we clergy exited into the hall. When, after a few minutes,
no one followed, I went back into the sanctuary. Many were gathered around
the organ enjoying the great music. In an open space in front of the pulpit
a girl was dancing. She had a bright smile on her face as her feet danced
some well-rehearsed steps to the beat of the organ. It is a church that
embraces special people and it embraced her to the degree that she felt
free to express her spirit in ways that most of us are too inhibited to
do. The people obviously took joy in her joy and applauded her at the conclusion
of the music.
|
Her free-spirited conclusion following
my benediction caused me to add another line to my old mentor's words:
May the words of my mouth, and the
meditations of my heart
and the
deep and abiding desires of my life
and
the dancing of my feet
be acceptable
in Thy sight, O God my strength and my redeemer. Amen
─ Art Morgan, November 22, 2006
|