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| Palmer sees signs of hope for the church - 9/25/2008 |
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New episcopal leader optimistic about church’s ability to minister in the midst of stresses in life and society.
Some might call Bishop Gregory V. Palmer an eternal optimist.
The new episcopal leader of the Illinois Area of The United Methodist Church acknowledges in the same breath the stresses of life caused by the high volatility of the financial markets, the difficulties of modern society and the church trying to find its place in the midst of it all.
“I am aware of the stresses, but I have never been more hopeful for the church and for our witness,” he said. “The stresses are bringing us back to our knees and helping us rethink in the best sense what it means to be the church. And we are discovering that we are called to be a church that fully embodies the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ – every moment of every day.”
Palmer, who assumed duties as resident bishop Sept. 1 after an eight-year ministry as bishop in the Iowa Area, has also experienced the stresses of transition. On a day normally set aside for Sabbath, Palmer juggles two media interviews, a video taping and handles calls related to being president of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church.
“That’s the nature of leadership transitions,” Palmer said. “You are sizing up things and people are sizing you up. The three weeks I have been here have been full of wide-eyed wonder. In the midst of getting the office set up and getting around the conference and meeting folks, there is in the background that task of unpacking boxes.”
Congregations of the Illinois Great Rivers Conference will gather on Sunday, Sept. 28, at Springfield First UMC for a worship celebration of Palmer’s assignment to the Illinois Area. The service will begin at 4 p.m. with a reception to follow. Special music and presentations will be a part of the service. The public is invited to attend.
Read more of Bishop Palmer's early observations, his call to ministry and the Council of Bishops.
By Paul Black |
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