Thinking of Transitions 2

Well - I'll try to continue somewhat where I left off .

I have been a member of 3 different congregations (at different times) when I lived in Alaska. I have now been identified with 4 different congregations here in the Portland area since I first came here in 1987 for college. I have had different reasons for changing but they all have been associated with my involvement and things that I felt were important to my own growth and desire to serve.

I have made each of the Portland area transitions with the company, discussion and prayer of my then girlfriend and now wife. It was not as easy to transition with someone else but the decision to make the change was made together.

Now we find ourselves making the change with a family that included 2 young boys. Was it just time to do something else or was there something that gave us reason or concern? I will try to discuss this in this blog but not for right now. This brings me to my current situation at the church I now attend. I am working with assumptions that I cannot assume here and am learning how to use new tools and be effective as a worship leader.

This brings me to where I left off in the first entry...

While I appreciate serving in a leadership role I also appreciate worshiping with a skilled and confident leader. It has often felt like I have been dragged through a worship service rather than guided and invited. Some who lead are demanding leaders. I am probably one of those right now as I learn how this congregation works and worships. I have a desire to follow the music and this congregation seems to be using more of an oral tradition philosophy. While that is not bad it does make my assumptions more difficult. I am trying to use music and thoughts that connect with this group and I feel that I am missing it. Time seems to be my biggest enemy. I have things that I want to do or try but my own confidence is not up to the task. I have a new set of tools and processes that I am learning to use but that means I feel like I am experimenting where I should be worshiping. I have had nothing but positive comments returned to me but I know that my level of leadership needs to grow to become truly effective. I appreciate others confidence in me and don't mind being one of the "go to" people but... OK...if I waited to learn it by observing it wouldn't be any better. I am one of those people who need to get my hands on it to learn and remember. I am grateful for the desire of others that I participate and lead. I hope I feel my skills in this new venue improve and my own confidence grows.

So... for now... It's trying to freeze again here in the Portland area.

I wish all a safe winter experience.

Be safe....