um, let me rephrase that

So I really don't think that church people suck. Church institutions? Sometimes. And church systems? Yes. But church people? No. Church people are people. They can be mean and self-serving and inconsiderate. But for the most part, church people, like all people, are kind, compassionate, caring, honest, and sincere. This week, my church folk friends have loved on me, encouraged me, told me that I am not a failure, and shared in happiness over my future.

I was dreading coming to General Assembly this year, and this dread was a new feeling since I usually love this time of reconnecting with colleagues and friends. But this year, aside from the fact that I am overwhelmed and stressed beyond measure abut the upcoming move (15 days!), I was feeling like a quitter, like I have failed the church by leaving Wind of Peace Church and following my love away from Chicago. I was expecting judgment, perhaps the same judgment I was placing upon myself, from my friends. But it never came. Instead, I have been greeted by big congratulatory hugs and squeals of delight as friends celebrate my upcoming union, and I have also been bombarded with eager questions about what my future with Craig holds for us.

And last night, as the the new church planters and pastors walked onto the assembly stage, my eyes welled with tears as I was not among these colleagues. I feel such grief in releasing the ministry of Wind of Peace. But what comfort I took in the arms and words of of the friend, who embraced me and whispered, "For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future" (Jeremiah 29:11).

No, church people don't suck. Church people are people. And I feel blessed to have so many good and kind people in my life.