Opening Worship on the 4th of July

The opening worship of the 219 General Assembly, held in the Minneapolis Convention Center was an awesome, inspirational way to come together and prepare of the week of meetings ahead of us. The landscape and variety of cultural groups that make up Minnesota Presbyteries was richly reflected in this moving service. The worship was scheduled to be two hours in length. That seems like an unreasonably long time for most Presbyterians, even those of us who love to worship. However, as the postlude was playing, I glanced at my watch for the first time and was surprised to realize that more than two hours had passed. The opening processional was spectacular. It followed the call to worship with prayers and liturgical dance relating to the four directions from which all the people gathered had come. The prayers were offered by native American speakers. The procession followed with banners and masked participants, including the buffalo, eagle, sun, moon and stars and many others. The opening hymn was " All Creatures of Our God and King." Prayers and readings were offered by a variety of local Presbyterian leaders. The sermon was given by outgoing moderator, Bruce Reyes Chow. He is such a strong advocate for moving the church to make room for younger people. A baptism followed. Tears flowed as we welcomed a young child into the family of God. Her African American congregation gathered round her as the waters of baptism flowed over her head. Communion followed. Serving several thousand people in such a short time was nothing short of a miracle. The music throughout the service was varied in style and cultural perspective, but it all fit together into magnificent praise. We were sent out, with God's Spirit to do our work and meet together.

Committees began meeting on Sunday afternoon. Many of the commissioners are feeling quite overwhelmed by the daunting task ahead of them. Much of Sunday afternoon was spent in getting to know the other members of a particular committee and being oriented to the work that was ahead of them.

The evening was dedicated to enjoying the celebration of Independence Day. Those wishing to celebrate with the crowd waited in long lines at a couple of the hotels to board buses which took us to Nicholette Island, in the middle of the Mississippi River, which flows between Minneapolis and St. Paul. Dinner was being served in and beside the pavillion  as we arrived on the Island. We got in line in order to get in line for our dinner. Walleye, Minnesota Rice Salad, Corn on the Cob, and Watermelon slices were worth the wait. Entertainment and strolling the island were options for the following evening's activities. Familiar faces began to appear in the crowd and cheerful conversation abounded. Before we knew it dark had fallen. Chairs were carried on to the grass and the boom of fireworks exploded over our heads. Afterwards, buses were waiting to take weary revealers back to their hotels. Monday morning and committee meetings would be here sooner than we would be ready for it. 

Please pray for the health and well being of all the commissioners.