Good morning,  

How are you being present this week? It is not as easy as it sounds!

I want to share something with you from the Pastoral Imagination book: As ministers, I do not think we bring the holy or that we are the primary representatives of the holy. Rather, I think the holy is already present in all situations.

Yet, I believe it is our calling as ministers to notice, to name and to point out the sacred in the situation. And that work is a purpose shared by many of us who are called to ministry. As you will hear in this episode, it is a purpose which often must be learned. Watch this 3-minute video to hear how Pastor Grace learned the significance of being there...

This week's question comes from Chapter 5 of Pastoral Imagination: Bringing the Practice of Ministry to Life. 

Which important people helped you figure out the subtle aspects of the art of practicing ministry, like being there? How could you pause and thank those important people? 

Being there means being mindful of people and places. This week and in the coming weeks, returning to school and being in classrooms is top of mind for many of us. Back to school season is here from preschool to grad school. Have a look at some of the back to school wisdom we have found. 

Are you connected to someone who is beginning a seminary journey? We would love for you to share this Blessing for Seminary. 

It's a new month!

And there is time to join us for 

August at the Writing Table 

Join us for the next writing retreat? 

August 16

See you in person in October? Registration open for the Writing Table Retreat

I am so excited about the in-person retreat at Kirkridge in October. 

It's not too early to make your plans for Fall. 

I would love to see you and work with. you there!

Enjoy the beauty of Kirkridge in the autumn and ample structured and unstructured time to inspire a rhythm of writing and rest. We invite you to bring a writing project with you or dream up a new one at this retreat. Registration is open now! 
 

Finding Our Way Study

Fall is a great time think about how we are finding our way and dealing with multiple changes to the world, to our lives, and to the church. Erin Robinson Hall wrote this study guide to help you lead important conversations as you navigate a new era of ministry. Could your group use a new study for Fall?

We need to acknowledge the changes, ask good questions, listen, make space for grief, and start to tell new future stories. The “Finding Our Way” Study Guide can help you do all this and more.

Find us on Pinterest!

📌 You can now follow us on Pinterest! Head over and look for Three Minute Ministry Mentor, and share or pin some of our favorite quotes and blessings. Find inspiration for your practice of ministry!

We know that being there matters to you. Your practice of ministry matters, . May you find peace, inspiration, and renewed imagination this week!