October is Pastor Appreciation Month. It’s a blessing to be remembered as a thankful presence in someone’s life. Monona UMC still feels new to me, and I have much to learn. Building deeper relationships takes time, but I’m grateful for meaningful conversations and gradually deepening connections at this church. Someone shared with me that Northern and Southern cultures differ. Northerners tend to respond slower and reserve emotional expressions. I’m still learning and adapting to Northern culture. Though our pace may vary, I believe that when hearts connect, we can grow together in love and mutual respect. I lead two small group Bible studies weekly, listening to their life stories, and understanding their perspectives on God, faith, and the world. Sharing God’s Word and getting to know new people is a noble and glorious experience to me.
On the first Sunday of October, Monona UMC and El Libertador UMC (a Hispanic congregation using our church building) joined forces to celebrate World Communion Sunday in a joyous and spirit-filled worship service. Our Sanctuary was transformed into a vibrant tapestry of diversity, adorned with multiethnic fabrics and multinational flags. The sounds of Scottish bagpipes filled the air as Amazing Grace was played, followed by powerful performances from our Intergenerational Choir and El Libertador UMC's worship team. Six different breads, symbolizing unity from diverse cultures, were carried to the altar, accompanied by liturgy readings. The sermon, ‘Fear of the Other,’ reminded us that our shared faith transcends boundaries. We sang ‘How Great is Our God’ in three languages – English, Spanish, and Korean – proclaiming our oneness in Christ. This service embodied the beauty of diversity and the truth that we are all brothers and sisters in Christ, regardless of our backgrounds. Just as a butterfly’s wings can create a ripple effect, our united worship flapped wings of love, acceptance, and compassion, sending a powerful message to the world. Monona UMC and El Libertador UMC declared that, in Christ, we are one – a testament to the transformative power of unity and the boundless love of God.
In October, I took two domestic and one international flight. I officiated a wedding in Alabama, a promise I made two years ago. It felt like visiting my hometown after a long time – joyful and heartwarming. Being invited to bless a young couple's marriage was an honor. As a pastor, the most fulfilling moments are when I can make a positive impact on people's lives. Three days after returning, I attended a conference in Winnipeg, Canada, focused on refugees. This trip reminded me that the Church can transform the world with Christ’s love. I was inspired by numerous non-governmental organizations and faithful Christians working to sponsor, welcome, and support refugees across the US and Canada. Meeting Christians who are committed to these issues with Christ’s love ignited a burning passion within me. If the Church fulfills its mission, the world can become a better place. I heard a testimony about a Christian family sponsoring and supporting a Muslim refugee family from Afghanistan settled in Arizona. They provided financial aid, English lessons, school support, medical care, and shared meals. The Muslim woman asked the Christian woman, “Is this the love Jesus taught you?” The Christian replied, “Yes, Jesus taught us to love our neighbors.” The Muslim woman said, “I saw Jesus through you.” I pray that our church will one day sponsor and support refugees unconditionally. Furthermore, through our ministries and missions, I hope to hear people in our community say, “We see Jesus through your church.” October was busy and fulfilling. Now, November arrives with new expectations and prayers. How should we live? How should our church grow? Let us seek God’s guidance.
