Church

So this past Sunday I officially became a member of Shane's church... which is now OUR church. Before I did, I had to set up a "get aquainted" meeting with one of the 2 pastors because they just like to get to know all the new members. Which is really nice. One of the pastors... Pastor Stumpf, I had already talked to a lot just from attending the church so I chose to meet with the other pastor, Pastor Stock. And I am so glad I did. I found him very intimidating and kind of distant for the entire year I had been attending the church with Shane.

But I will never think that way again! I'm so happy I met with him and was able to discover just how awesome he is. Often times when I've tried talking religion with anyone or about the bible with anyone, in return I was made fun of. (except with Shane and Christina). But I felt comfortable enough to say how I felt with Pastor Stock and we instantly hit it off and shared a lot of the same opinions. He was also really nice when it came to me not having a job. In my file, he wrote down all the things I enjoy doing... (writing, photography, oil painting) and said he would do what he can to find me a paying job at the church.

At the new members brunch on Sunday he came over and told me he thinks he found something I would enjoy and may be hearing from someone soon. It doesn't pay but he said it may lead to something that does. I don't know exactly what it is yet, but I'm very excited!

Also at the brunch, Don (my former teacher in the new members class) and his wife Alice introduced me to a member that has a lot of connections in Indiana with different dental offices and she took my name and number and said she will do what she can for me!

So needless to say, I've barely been a member for a week and I could not feel more welcome. It's like an instant family. Not to mention it feels just generally good for my soul to be with people who believe what I do. I took so much from that new members class and I don't want it to stop. I'm thinking of attending the bible classes on Sunday mornings that the pastors teach themselves.

I just really love it there and I want to be more involved. As Pastor Stock told me... going from visitor to member is like buying a house. You find the one you want, and it's all great on the outside but when you're actually handed the keys, it's a whole new world.

I have the keys and I can't wait to get settled!