Back from Congress...

I am back from Myrtle Beach and the Congress on Evangelism!!! 'Twas an interesting time, to be sure. I think I stood on Wesley's grave long enough to do me for a while. Experiences that I most fondly remember:

--Being welcomed by Paul Ervin the first night, and meeting Mrs. Ervin the last night.

--Having lots more people in the workshops than I thought I would...and realizing that quite a group of the folks were interested in what I was saying, though others, as I was told, didn't understand it at all (postmodernity and emerging church definitions in 25 minutes just didn't cut it...but I wanted to stand on Mr. Wesley's grave as long as I could!)

--Most of all, getting to spend some brief time with the bloggers (three are in the picture, at the blogger supper I refer to later...Jonathan, John, and Theresa, all listening in awed attention to Gavin and Jay as they lead us in getting to know each other). All the bloggers are younger than I am, I believe, and totally refreshing, bright and a breath of fresh air. I had a blast going out to dinner with them on Wednesday night (and wearing the white bow ties we all had in honor of Jonathan...I can tell you more if you like), and enjoyed being at the blogger supper sponsored by, who else, the Foundation for Evangelism. And to be honest, I enjoyed being with folks who shared my same feelings about "The Big House...", a worship experience that reminded me of Pee Wee's Playhouse, cheer leading tryouts, and over-the-top adrenalin show all rolled in to one. We spent some time (the bloggers and I) thinking whether this might be authentic to the folks that are entertained by it each week. Over the top, way over the top. Best time I had all week was with those bloggers...

I was so worn out from teaching and being passionate about what I was saying (four workshops, 1 1/2 hour each) that I vegged out on most of the other sessions. What I heard of Bishop Jones' Denman lectures was really very good. Adam Hamilton was great, as always, on the first night, though I had heard most of it an an earlier conference.

As always, it is such a delight to be asked to share my bliss and get the expenses paid! Also was SO good to meet and chat with Amy Forbus, whom, I have a feeling, be someone with whom I have a developing friendship, and to see David and Marsha Kerr (busy, busy) and Sherry Habben.

Now, to rest for a bit. Before I go to ministers' school and cabinet next week....Tomorrow two of my student pastors are getting married (to each other!!!) Amanda and Greg. And I get to be there, and even pray at the reception!!!