Getting to Thrive in Ministry
Am I merely surviving in ministry, waiting for the next move or early retirement? Do I need to be revived by the breath of God, or at least a little breeze that might bring relief to daily pressures and struggles? Is it really possible at my age to thrive, and be part of a thriving church? If you have read this far then you might fit the description of countless pastors who still hope to be part of the transformation and renewal of the church . . . in our lifetime!
During this week we intend to model what a “church” experience might look like on its better days. We will share our stories and seek wisdom from the Biblical stories (which seem all too familiar to our own stories!), look at various models of ministry, affirm pushback as a positive sign that we are doing our job, and then find relief and empowerment through learning the art of self-differentiation.
Worship will be simple; rest, sustenance and support will be abundant; and spiritual direction throughout the week will be offered. Hopefully, by the end of the week we will glimpse again the wonder, mystery, and awe of God, the same God who called us once and is renewing us now.
Instructor(s)
Jan Gough has extensive experience as a Certified Spiritual Director, Supervisor and Retreat Leader. She currently serves as Spiritual Director for Ghost Ranch and as a faculty member for Stillpoint’s Spiritual Direction and Formation Training Program. In Boston, she founded the Interfaith Chaplaincy at Shriners Burns Hospital for Children and was a member of the Interfaith Chaplaincy at Massachusetts General Hospital, where she met Joan Drescher through the MOON BALLOON project. As a self-identified “Non-Artistic Word Person”, she deeply appreciated Joan’s welcoming approach and has subsequently introduced the practice of creating art into her various ministries. To her amazement, painting has now become one of her own most fruitful contemplative practices.Pre-seminary, Jan raised a family while working as a bank efficiency analyst; an actor; a voice coach; and a writer for network television. Her broad background helps her discern with others how they might benefit from using images to communicate better in various aspects of their lives.
Rev. Dr. Harry Eberts III is a graduate of College of Wooster in Ohio (BA), Yale Divinity School in Connecticut (MDiv) and McCormick Seminary in Illinois (DMin). He served a congregation in Cleveland, Ohio, for 16 years before accepting a call in Santa Fe. Harry and his wife Jenny arrived in Santa Fe in December 2011 with therapy dog Atticus. Harry is a church futurist, justice seeker, cancer survivor, student of scripture, avid reader, lover of travel and spiritual director.Andrew Black, currently serves as staff to US Senator Martin Heinrich, and parish associate at First Presbyterian Church, Santa Fe, and former Director of Constitutional Services for the Presbyterian Church (USA).
Three ways to register:
- Download printable registration form and mail to: Ghost Ranch Registrar, HC77 Box 11, Abiquiu, NM 87510. OR scan and email your completed form to: [email protected]
- Register by telephone at 877-804-4678, extension 4152 or 4155 — available Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. – 4:45 p.m. MST.
