My friend, Daryl Smith, connected me to you. I am grateful for the new-wineskin you provide. I agree with Brian McLaren that "everything must change." You probably already know about his book. I am seeking the same within the context of clergy wellness/formation on my "Shepherd's Care" Substack site. Your thoughts about a new ordering of ministry are much needed. Thank you.
Thank you so much—and I’m grateful to Daryl for the connection. I wholeheartedly resonate with your focus on leader wellness and formation. Before we can shepherd others, we have to let ourselves be shepherded. As leaders, we really do have to “put the oxygen mask on first.” If the inner life collapses, the mission dries up. But when we lead from the overflow of communion, everything flows differently—more rooted, more joyful, more sustainable.
I love that you're naming the need for a new ordering of ministry. That’s exactly the kind of “new wineskin” Jesus was pointing toward—not a flashier container, but a wholly re-formed vessel shaped by intimacy with the Father, filled with the Spirit, and flexible enough to carry the fermenting power of the Kingdom.
Your work is so very important, brother. A renewed Church requires renewed leaders. Keep going, my friend—and thank you for your faithful labor in this holy and hard calling.
Thanks for your prompt and encouraging reply. In this time of new awakening, I think the Spirit is constructing a multi-faceted renewal. We have niche roles to play, but it is encouraging to sense we are all fitting into a larger vision, as the "Hymn of Promise" puts it, "Something God alone can see."
Quick question, may I excerpt your affirmation (beginning with "I wholeheartedly resonate....) to add to an endorsement list I am compiling? If so, I could keep it anonymous (i.e. Kansas City pastor) or I can credit you personally. And of course, I will not use your words at all wothout your permission.
My friend, Daryl Smith, connected me to you. I am grateful for the new-wineskin you provide. I agree with Brian McLaren that "everything must change." You probably already know about his book. I am seeking the same within the context of clergy wellness/formation on my "Shepherd's Care" Substack site. Your thoughts about a new ordering of ministry are much needed. Thank you.
Thank you so much—and I’m grateful to Daryl for the connection. I wholeheartedly resonate with your focus on leader wellness and formation. Before we can shepherd others, we have to let ourselves be shepherded. As leaders, we really do have to “put the oxygen mask on first.” If the inner life collapses, the mission dries up. But when we lead from the overflow of communion, everything flows differently—more rooted, more joyful, more sustainable.
I love that you're naming the need for a new ordering of ministry. That’s exactly the kind of “new wineskin” Jesus was pointing toward—not a flashier container, but a wholly re-formed vessel shaped by intimacy with the Father, filled with the Spirit, and flexible enough to carry the fermenting power of the Kingdom.
Your work is so very important, brother. A renewed Church requires renewed leaders. Keep going, my friend—and thank you for your faithful labor in this holy and hard calling.
Thanks for your prompt and encouraging reply. In this time of new awakening, I think the Spirit is constructing a multi-faceted renewal. We have niche roles to play, but it is encouraging to sense we are all fitting into a larger vision, as the "Hymn of Promise" puts it, "Something God alone can see."
Quick question, may I excerpt your affirmation (beginning with "I wholeheartedly resonate....) to add to an endorsement list I am compiling? If so, I could keep it anonymous (i.e. Kansas City pastor) or I can credit you personally. And of course, I will not use your words at all wothout your permission.