Traditions are wonderful, amazing parts of our lives. The Broadway song from Fiddler on the Roof reminds us that traditions keep us balanced and remind us who we are. We like them because they tell us what to do and when to do it. The community in which we live often holds traditions, enacting them at just the right time. And in a world that changes rapidly, traditions bring us comfort and familiarity.
I like to look back and see how traditions were started, especially in my community or my family. Often, they are practices started out of necessity. Why did Grandma always cut the end off the roast before she cooked it? Does that really make it taste better or cook up more tender? No! When we asked around, it was because her pan was too small, so she cut the roast just to make it fit. But we believed all kinds of other reasons belonged to this tradition, and we kept doing it without knowing why!
Our family tried starting new traditions, like a special celebration for half birthdays when our kids were little. Traditions can come out of necessity, fun, or simply because we like it enough the first time, we do it to repeat it! Even in the song from the Fiddler on the Roof, the papa talks about “Tradition!” at the beginning of the song. He admits he doesn’t know the reason for each tradition, but if it’s a tradition, we do it!! No questions asked!
Each year, in the month of June, we embrace a time of TRANSITION. We could say it’s a tradition that we transition! It’s not simply a tradition to enter into this season, but a key part of who we are as United Methodists! Our pastors commit to what is called “itineracy” when they become pastors in the UMC. This means that they serve in their roles as leaders in the Conference with a willingness to move to where they are needed as assessed by the Bishop and Cabinet (the bishop, assistant to the bishop, DSs, and executive staff) each year. Pastors are appointed each year by the Cabinet, either remaining at a local church or moving to another local church, extension ministry, or perhaps taking a renewal leave or sabbatical year. All pastors make themselves available to move as needed, and each pastor and S/PPRC has an opportunity to either request that the pastor remain or transition to a new appointment. The Cabinet seeks to honor these requests while fulfilling the pastoral needs at each and every local church throughout the year.
If your congregation is receiving a new pastor July 1, please know you are surrounded in prayer! Key leaders and the new pastor have just attended the Transition Seminar on May 18. And preparations are underway to welcome your new faith leader! If you will continue with your current pastor, please show your appreciation to the pastor and continue setting goals and envisioning your time forward together. Seek out the new pastors in surrounding communities to welcome them and support your neighbors with their transition journey. What might that look like? So glad you asked. . .
Moving day officially is June 24. You might stop by to help move in boxes, drop off cold water or snacks, and say “hello!” Throughout the week, you might offer a text of encouragement to those you know are moving. As pastors move into their new appointments, make sure they find out about local clergy gatherings, the best places to meet folks for coffee, or where folks naturally gather in the community on summer weekends! And, of course, it’s always fun to bring a meal as we welcome new pastors and their families. Be sure to think about food allergies or reach out to the church office or family before deciding what you will share.
Thank you for the welcoming spirit and hospitality you will show new colleagues throughout the district! In 1 Peter 4:8-10 tells us: “Above all, maintain constant love for one another, for love covers a multitude of sins. Be hospitable to one another without complaining. Like good stewards of the manifold grace of God, serve one another with whatever gift each of you has received.” May our love for our new neighbors be evident in our actions of love!
Photo Credit: Tara Lain –
Trinity UMC parsonage in Marshallberg, where a new pastor will be moving in soon!