Good morning, !

Last week I was away at Ring Lake Ranch, hiking, horseback riding, writing each day, and getting to know new friends. It was a really beautiful week. I'll be sharing more about it soon!

While I was traveling, I asked our 3MMM Team to write about their teaching and parenting in the upcoming school year. Adam is first up this week. He answers questions for you about "Teaching Religious Studies." and a book list that you will want to check out!

As you are taking in the Olympics in the next couple of weeks, I hope you will watch those athletes and think about how much they worked to learn and excel in their practice.

The practice of ministry is not so different. It takes time, experience, repetition, knowledge, skill, mentors, feedback, learning from failures, supporting peers, and much more to embody a complex practice. Although sports like gymnastics, diving, sprinting, tennis, fencing, and this year's new breaking (break dancing), are highly physical, and we are watching the top competitors in the world, still they once were novices and beginners.  

Back to school is right around the corner for many of us. Have a look at some of the back to school wisdom we hav found. What would you add to this list? With August and the return to school, I wish you rest, reflection, and a little time to dream in these summer days.

Blessings and peace,
Eileen

Next Mini Writing Retreat -

August 15

Some possible ways you might make the most out of the virtual Writing Retreat?

• to plan for fall teaching, preaching, or programming
• to work on your book, article, or blog
• to edit, revise, or polish a project
• to get ahead on your writing so you can vacation in peace

What do you get when you sign up for a retreat? 

• Time to write
• Planning ideas & document 
• Accountability
• Better writing habits 
• Focus on process 
• Breathing and intention setting
• Camaraderie 
• Encouraging and supportive coaching

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! 
 

Book Giveaway
We have one more copy of From Weary to Wholehearted 

to give away in July. Tell your friends - you can enter the giveaway by signing up for our newsletter. If you are receiving this newsletter, 

you are already in the drawing!

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 think that your practice of ministry matters, . May you find peace, inspiration, and renewed imagination this week!