Summer
Days…
My summer
is coming to a close and in true CPE fashion, I can’t help but reflect on this
time in my life. I have heard many priests
say that CPE is the hardest part of seminary.
I am not sure I completely agree, but it was not easy. But, in the midst of the pain, suffering, and
flat out fear, Jesus always shows up. It
is a lesson that I have to relearn often and constantly be reminded of. I am different because of this
experience. I am braver, I have
reflected on many of my own personal struggles, and I am working on them. Most of all, I am thankful for the challenges
and joys of the summer and I know that I was exactly where I was suppose to be.
Having the
honor and privilege of attending General Convention is one that I will never
forget. The Episcopal Church is working
hard to come to the table together. That
was made abundantly clear to me at General Convention. No, we don’t always agree, yes, there are
people who are extremely hurt on both sides of many issues, but we as a Church
are willing to listen and most importantly extend grace to each other. Isn’t that exactly what we are called to
do? I am thankful to be a part of a denomination
that wants to recognize that we need all voices to make up the Body of Christ.
On Sunday,
I preached at Christ Church, Fairfield, Alabama. Christ Church is an inner city Church in
Birmingham, Alabama. The energy in that
holy space was something I have never felt before. It is a safe space and I was welcomed with
open arms. I received some Amen’s during
my sermon, which made me happy. But more
importantly, I was asked to pray with parishioners after the service, right
smack in the middle of the parking lot.
It was a moment that I will not forget - God using me as his instrument. I am so thankful for that opportunity.
I have
said this before many, many times, but I have the most incredible parents. They have made this summer possible for
me. Walks with my Mom, chatting Church
talk with my Dad, their never-ending love for me, and their constant and true
love for God that they show to everyone they encounter. I can’t thank them enough for all that they
do for me, but I really can’t thank them enough for the pure and constant love
that they show me. Thanks be to God for
Polk and Mary Jo Van Zandt!
It is
bittersweet to leave Tennessee. I will
miss my family terribly, but I am excited to get back to Austin. It is time to embrace my wonderful SSW
community again and to dig deep into the school year and all that it will offer
me. If I don’t leave, I’ll never get to
come back….
Blessings as
the ride continues… Mary Balfour
