The Church in my generation is having an identity crisis.  We aren’t sure who we are yet, and our wavering identity is causing us to lose people on the fringe and frustrate our elders.  Unfortunately, clarity may not come for months, years, or even another generation!  This lack of clarity is daunting, and for many, may be overwhelming enough to throw in the towel, but I am begging you don’t stop now!  Lack of clarity can be biblical and even holy.  It gives us opportunity to rely on God, to forge our relationships, and experience the labor pains necessary for new life.  Just ask the Israelites in the dessert, Joseph and Mary on the road to Bethlehem, the disciples before Pentecost, or the early church in ancient Rome. [Read more →]

As you can see by our nearly month long hiatus Ashley and I have been insanely busy.  We had annual conference, found a job for Ashley, officiated a wedding in California, had family vacation in Colorado, said goodbye to all our friends in Illinois, moved to Kansas, and unpacked the huge amount of stuff we own.  It was a crazy month.  But this is a crazy month for a a lot of United Methodist.  Because this is the month that pastors take new appointments.  Within the United States the entire denomination has pastors taking new churches, moving into new homes, uprooting their families and taking on the task of building a life in a new place. [Read more →]

As you can see we have a new look at barlowthompson.net. Same content with sweet new pictures. There are 6 total that come up at random. This is our post-seminary style.  Ashley and I are now finished with seminary! (come celebrate May 14th if you’re in the area) As we wrap up the last celebrations and the last of our responsibilities in Illinois we are looking forward to taking on a new life in ministry outside of school. Here are some of my thoughts about this new world…. [Read more →]

Change is hard… in fact, even though I am not supposed to use this word at youth group, change SUCKS.

In June next year, I am transitioning into a new role, new state and new life. When Adam and I graduate, we will move to Kansas and begin full-time ministry in the United Methodist Church. While I am excited to fully live into my calling to education, hospitality and social justice, I am extremely sad to be leaving the congregation and communities that I have been serving for what will be four years when I end my time in Illinois… [Read more →]