This afternoon three of the seven Young Adult Interns in a year-long program in the Presbyterian Center were thanked by national staff during a reception in their honor. Rhashell Hunter, Director of Racial Ethnic and Women's Ministries/ Presbyterian Women gave each of them a copy of Dr. Seuss' famous book, "O The Place's You Will Go." I have to agree, these three young women will go places... but I will add that they will have a significant and positive impact wherever they travel.
Bridgett Cannon served as an intern with the National Network of Presbyterian College Women and Racial Ethnic Young Women Together. A native of Charlotte, NC and graduate of UNC-Greensboro, Bridgett brought energy and imagination to these ministries that will, it is said, change them forever and for the better. She asks for our prayers as she discerns where God is leading her next. Bridgett's personality is famous in the Presbyterian Center and among those with whom she has been in ministry. In fact, I am relatively certain she took this picture of herself in Southern California last week... she's that cool!
Irene Pak worked with the PC(USA) Office of Racial Justice and Advocacy. One staff member, also a pastor said of Irene, "I would like for her to be my pastor." By God's good grace, Irene will be serving as a pastor soon in California. A 2007 graduate of McCormick Theological Seminary, Irene has brought the gift of leadership and music as a frequent cellist in the Presbyterian Center Chapel!
Tiffany Gonzales had an impact on the Office of Women's Advocacy in more ways than people could name. Her presence brought a groove to the room and a conscience for and call to this essential ministry. With a Master's degree in Social Work, Tiffany knows how to care for and advocate for groups of people. However, her competent care for people as individuals makes her a friend to many. Tiffany hopes to see Tracy Chapman live in concert one day. I hope so too... together they could be "Talkin' 'Bout a Revolution" we may all want to join.
Programs like these are varied and unique. Some congregations host interns. Non-profits do this as well... even our government officials. When it is done well, mentoring relationships are born and people become colleagues for a lifetime. In previous centuries apprentices were common... now we have the opportunity to be even more intentional about formation of future leaders... and how they form us.
These three women along with some of their colleagues can often be found having lunch together on the Mezzanine level of the Presbyterian Center. I call them the "Women's Council" and have been honored to be invited and join them for time to time. It reminds me of when the risen Christ was revealed to disciples in the breaking of the bread. They break bread, often a simple meal with nalgene bottles filled with water in tow. They have made a difference as I have passed them... heard them laugh, and imagine where God in Christ is calling us next as the Presbyterian Church.
Maybe you or someone you might be interested in this program. Young adults 20-35 years of age are eligible to apply. I understand a few of the Internships are still open for next year! Or maybe your congregation or ministry is ready to start an internship program of it's own or wants to promote such a program with others. I would love to hear about it. Mentoring Communities are what Sharon Daloz Parks calls them in her landmark book, Big Questions, Worthy Dreams. I call it living out our baptismal vows to nurture our call in one another.
I pray my children may have mentors like Irene, Bridgett, and Tiffany... and all of God's children, wherever they are! And may a few of them end up, I pray, in seminary as leaders continuing to be formed for church service.
From Louisville, on the first day of third-grade for my son.
Lee
Wow, thanks Lee for the shout out! :) It's good to know there are people like you serving alongside me in the church. :)
Posted by: Irene Pak | August 12, 2008 at 05:30 PM