Dancing ahead
In worship this summer, we’ve been slowly learning the “Your Way’s Better” dance, which (apparently) took off on TikTok earlier this year. I’ve been getting some requests for videos that we can use to practice on our own at home. Unfortunately, I haven’t had time to make my own video recording of our modified (chair version) dance, but here are a few others:
Tutorial with varied speeds (Carrie Mitchell)
Dance with the musical artist (Forrest Frank)
Compilation of several variations (check out the gentlemen at 1:02 for a low-impact version)
Thanks so much for your willingness to try a new thing. Perhaps we’ll make our own video on August 10! Perhaps. :)
I also wanted to share a bit more information on my upcoming renewal leave, which will be from August 15 - September 14. This pause is intended to give me some time to be more present to my family, as well as to reflect on and prepare for the future of our shared ministry.
While I’m gone, Pastor Gary O’Gorman and Rev. Marjorie MacNeill (both UCC ministers) will be leading Sunday worship (2 Sundays and 3 Sundays respectively). Each has served churches in various short-term capacities and will bring their unique gifts and graces to our worship. I know you’ll welcome them with warm hearts and open arms.
It is important to note that worship leading will be the guest preacher’s sole responsibility. They will not attend committee meetings, advise on decisionmaking, or provide pastoral care. This is different from when I was away on maternity leave for a longer period, and the worship leader (a very short-term interim minister) also engaged in these aspects of congregational life.
Instead, church committees will continue their work (with the regular monthly coordination at Church Council), and emergency pastoral care will be provided by on-call clergy of neighboring churches. More about this in a future note.
If you’d like to connect with me about something before my August 15 “departure,” now is a great time to get something on the calendar. Also, please see below for my adjusted summer office hours. I’m happy to make further adjustments to find time to meet with you.
In other words, there’s plenty of room on the dance card. Let me know if you’d like to take a spin!
Pastor Jen
