Life Together Community (June 4, 2023)

 

It has been such a blessed seven years. 

Seven years ago we welcomed Rev. Dr. Jackie Brannen to be our District Superintendent (DS). Today we celebrated her retirement from a full-time ministry.  

Without any doubt, Jackie has been a wonderful DS. When there was a conflict, she came up and served as a gracious mediator with a non-anxious presence. When there was a concern, she offered herself and led a listening session with empathy and compassion.  

More than that, I would want to say that Jackie has been a good pastor, a good "shepherd" to me personally. As I looked back over the past seven years with Jackie, a couple of moments stood out to me from many other memories. 

First, during the COVID-19 Pandemic, my family and I were anxious. We were anxious not just about the virus, but also about the rise of anti-Asian hate. We heard some disturbing news from our Asian colleagues as well as on TV. As the tension was still high, we received a parcel from Amazon - An assorted Asian snack gift box. It was sent by Jackie. My family and I felt deeply comforted, knowing that someone is standing with us. 

The second memory is about winter. Northern Maine's winter is long and cold. Though my children love winter sports, sometimes it's just too cold to play outside. Around Christmas time, my children received a surprise gift. It was an indoor snowball fight toy set. Again my family and I were deeply moved by Jackie's creative and caring thoughts. 

"Jackie, your caring presence will always be missed and remembered." 

It is no surprise that so many people shared their cherished memories and encouraging words with Jackie today. Also, today I saw the beauty of Christ's "Community" - the Church. There were tears and laughter, gratitude, encouragement, comfort, peace, and love. It was heaven.   

How beautiful and glorious it is when sisters and brothers in Christ get along and worship in unity! Please join us for our Sunday worship service. Hodgdon UMC and Mars Hill UMC are gathered at 9 am, and Houlton UMC at 11 am. If you are not able to come in person, you can worship with us online at the following links: 

• Hodgdon UMC: Facebook Live (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100070411631446)
• Houltoun UMC: Youtube Live (https://youtube.com/live/mf7zSfcbpos?feature=share) or Facebook Live (https://www.facebook.com/houltonumc)
• Mars Hill UMC: Facebook Live (https://www.facebook.com/MarsHillUnitedMethodist)

Thank you for being among us. See you in the morning!

In Christ,
Pastor Victor