I had promised to get back with you a few days after my last post but things rapidly got real busy. So two weeks later, here is the rest of my trip from the Synod of the Sun -
When I wrote to you I was in San Antonio about to catch a plane to Dallas for a visit with Grace Presbytery. I traveled with Rafaat Zaki, the new synod clerk and associate executive. Upon arrival, I was taken to dinner with leaders of the Presbytery and Synod Staff at a restaurant named Saltgrass. I had a blast with Connie Tubb, the stated clerk of the presbytery and her husband; Interim Presbytery Exec Marvin Groote and his wife; Presbytery Moderator Stuart Baskin and his wife, the former presbytery stated clerk and his wife and Karl Travis, pastor of First Church, Fort Worth. I was also presented with gifts including a cowboy hat and a Texas tie. They were really fun!
The next day I was given a mission tour of First Presbyterian Church of Dallas where Rev. Dr. Joe Clifford is the pastor. I was warmly greeted by Associate Pastor, Rev. Cynthia Weeks Logan who was my chaperone as we toured the church campus and what they are doing in partnership with the downtown community. I also met with Miatta Wilson, Director of Children's Ministry and Camilla Ballard, Director of Youth Ministries who told me about some exciting programs that are happening. Afterward we visited the Stewpot, which is a comprehensive outreach center for the homeless and at-risk which is across the street from the church. They do a lot for this community and I was glad to witness this! Later on that evening I was the guest of honor at two receptions The first at the Presbyterian Mission Center, which is the home office for the Presbytery, Synod, Texas Presbyterian Foundation and Faith Presbyterian Hospice. The second reception was by the South Dallas Church cluster at Oak Cliff Presbyterian Church where Rev. Clay Allard is the pastor. I had a good time at both and reconnected with many people as well as meeting new ones. The next day I traveled to Waco, TX for the stated meeting of Grace Presbytery where I gave greetings and participated in praying for three churches who received new pastors.
From Waco, Rafaat and I traveled to Tulsa, OK to attend the Tri-Presbytery meeting. This is a meeting of the three Presbyteries in Oklahoma (Cimarron, Eastern Oklahoma and Indian Nations) which happens every other year. This year it was at the University of Tulsa. I preached the opening worship service and gave two plenary presentations on the missional church. I was very well received and the Sharp Chapel where we met was beautiful! My trip ended on the first Sunday of June with a Breakfast Q and A and preaching at First Presbyterian Church of Sand Springs with Rev. Dan Milford as the pastor. During the service the Children performed a musical that was wonderful.
In all the trip was great! Lots of moving around but met some wonderful people who are committed to the church and being Presbyterian. Thanks to all who helped me, especially Rev. Greg Coulter, Presbytery Exec of Eastern Oklahoma Presbytery. Please keep the Synod of the Sun and its presbyteries in your prayers.
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