Mike Collison's Sabbatical 2008

Out of Narnia - Thanks - Soli Deo Gloria

This week concluded my sabbatical time.  In some ways it felt like visiting Narnia.  I stepped out of my regular work life and rhythms into an adventure and just as suddenly stepped back out with seemingly no time gone by.

 Seven weeks was wonderful.  Long enough to slow down and reflect, but short enough to not lose my enthusiasm.

 Like a great salad bar, I was able to taste and enjoy a variety of foods.  I read, I did some teaching and work at home, I visited friends, I made new friends, I sat in unfamiliar churches, I missed my church family.

 I wrote, I had my writing critiqued, I exercised, I played, I drove, I reflected, I wrote down my reflections, I prayed, I journaled, I enjoyed the moment, I pondered the future. 

I sensed the presence, direction, and blessing of God in many different ways. Soli Deo Gloria - Glory to God Alone!

I am grateful to my church for the opportunity.  I return to you a little fresher, a little healthier, a little wiser, a little more aware, and a lot more thankful to be living with and serving you.

Thanks to all who brightened and colored my sabbatical.

 All my love and prayers - Mike May 31, 2008

Visited the Gathering at Wooddale

Visited Substance Church

On the recommendation of Tony Dunham, I checked out the church he attends when he is at Bethel.  I was able to worship first service then sit for an hour with Carolyn, and associate pastor and the senior pastor, Peter’s wife.  She shared their story and core values that drive Substance Church.

Anti-spectator and are committed to creating a culture of connection - they tell everyone you must have 4-7 friends and ministry to serving in.

They have broad subgroups - open small groups, passion-based, limited length, in the spirit of Fly Fishing and Dog Training.

Then they develop intimate Christian relationships/groups - they call S.H.A.P.E

S - same sex

P - prayer

A- accountable

C - confession

E - equal passions