Congregation of the Trails and Sidewalks

A United Methodist ordained Elder is required to make a report on how Ordination Vows are being fulfilled. Ordination is a life long commitment. Here is my 2010 report to the congregation where my credentials are recorded. Comments are welcomed. 

2010 Annual Report – Appointed Leader Report

Hillcrest United Methodist Church, Bloomington, MN   December, 2010

                 Report of Elder in the Retired Relationship

Report by:   Delton Krueger

Ordination vows include these words: “Remember that you are called to serve rather than be served, to proclaim the faith of the Church and no other, to look after the concerns of Christ above all.”  This report will focus on the Congregation of the Trails and Sidewalks where my ordination vows are primarily fulfilled these days.

The random mix of people met while walking is made up of all ages. Most are adults both younger and older, some are children, and a few are infants. Psalm 148 tells us that nature, including animals, praises the name of Lord in many ways. Dogs bring their people out doors.

It is a fact that some trail conversations are kept brief and to the point by insistent dogs.

As we come to know each other, friendships develop. Conversations are about health, family, work, and the challenges that are faced in daily life. Mutual support grows out of these random meetings. Sometimes the trail is almost blocked by a gathering of familiar people and dogs. It is to be reported that dog fights are utterly rare on the trail.

Some conversations are truly confessionals and some are times of Christian witness. Some are just good visits between friendly people. Grief is worked out by many while walking on a trail, sidewalk, or Mall concourse. In such conversations it is the glance of the eye that speaks way beyond words. My task is to listen and encourage a life of faith and grace.

Christian love happens on the trails and sidewalks. The realization comes, after some conversations, that a really important exchange has just happened. Thanksgiving is the only adequate response. Those moments linger in the mind for a long time.  

The natural world provides a non threatening place for conversations that can address personal issues and matters of the spirit. Random meetings of people are occasions for spontaneous sharing of words and laughter. These moments are grace filled.

The sounds of birds, wind, a stream, and rain communicate in their own way. The sights of winter and summer draw the whole body and mind into communication with the wider world.  In this context many people are quite open to health and healing of mind and body.

The Congregation of the Trails and Sidewalks is one way that my ordination vows are being fulfilled in 2010. 

Signature

Delton Krueger