SLLC Friends,

I wanted to communicate with you following Glen's announcement of being selected to serve in the role of the Minister of the Spiritual Life and Learning Center. I am very excited about the opportunity to build on the strong legacy of the SLLC.

I'd like to take a moment to introduce myself to those who may not know me. The early years of my life were spent growing up in the church. I attended the Methodist Theological School in Ohio with the intention of going into parish ministry. Mid-way through the program I switched to a counseling program that was offered at the seminary. I spent the following 10 years as a psychotherapist. Beginning in my 40’s I took a sabbatical from the church. That sabbatical lasted for about 20 years. During that time, I explored a myriad of faith traditions and spiritual practices. The study of Buddhism proved particularly helpful and continues to be so. I completed certifications in areas such as meditation, mindfulness, breathwork, hypnosis, and neuro-linguistic programming. During this period of wandering/exploring I longed for a way back to the church but only if that return could occur with integrity, integration, and richness.

This is why First Community and the SLLC feel like home to me. I feel a very strong connection to the SLLC as a kindred spirit in the infinite quest.

As I consider the opportunity to lead the SLLC, I see a very exciting confluence of those core elements of my being as mentioned above and the skills and competencies that I have developed throughout my career. Some of these relevant competencies include:

  1. The ability to create an exciting and compelling vision of the SLLC ministry and its programs.
  2. Strong program development and program management skills.
  3. The ability to engage others collaboratively.
  4. The ability to market and message in ways that create engagement.
  5. An understanding of how the church operates financially.

I am developing some clarity related to some programming ideas that I look forward to sharing with you. These ideas include additional programs supporting spiritual formation and development, an annual schedule of inter-faith experiences, and a program of support and discernment related to the election this year to name a few. I am excited to work with all of you as we re-energize and continue to grow the work and mission of the SLLC.

I wanted to let you know that I will be leading the Bible study at the next Gathering on January 10th at 6:00. I will be sharing some thoughts on spiritual practice. A light supper will be served at 5:30. Also at 6:00 on Wednesday, January 10th Abbey Jo Griffith, David Quelette, and Jen Bratka will be leading an event, Poetry Pop, at FC North. This will be a fun event that will include some gourmet popcorn and the reading of poems that are meaningful to the participants. The poetry of our upcoming Spiritual Searcher, Rev. Dr. Karen Georgia Thompson, will be featured as well.

Should you be at FC North on Wednesday, January 10th, please make a point of grabbing me and saying hello.

Feel free to send me an email (SStearns@FCchurch.com), or I can be reached at 614-787-7624 should you have any questions or if you would simply like to say Hi.


Blessings to you,