ramblings of a seminary student (who emailed her last paper in to the seminary)

I have always loved flying. I have actually appreciated it more since 9/11. I always seem to spend time in contemplation (which is, I guess good for me since I will be on a bazillion flights this summer), thinking not only about the blessings but remembering how fragile life can be. And I am always struck by the beauty of God’s creation from so far above it. The sun started to set over the water as we made our descent into Miami. I wish I had been by the window but I am sure others are glad I was not because I would have snapped a picture or two.
As I flew into I was also struck by the steadfastness of God. I complain regularly that the sun does not shine in Pittsburgh. But it always does. Just because the clouds cover it does not mean the sun is not shining. God is always steadfast as well, always present, and if I cannot see it, then maybe it is my perspective that needs adjusting.

Enough with the deep thoughts...I am safely in the Dominican Republic. My flight was an hour and half late! By the time I collected my suitcase and went through customs my host had waited 2 hours for me. What a lesson in patience and hospitality that I need to learn from her! Ruth will be my host, translator, and sister for the next week + (she is also blonde so that is the immediate assumption, although spiritual sister works too)

I worshipped today in a Dominican Church. Shockingly enough, they do not believe in forcing God into a 1 hour block. Church started only a little late but ran over at least a half hour. The reason I know this is because there is a second service at 11 and we worshipped until 11:30!! Everything was great- I think we (meaning I) have a lot to learn from their worship. Worship is experiential. It is anything but passive. There is singing, clapping, and even dancing in the isles. And the sermon did not only include response but required it. There was no sitting passively and listening to the preacher. Which is why I know the whole message because it was not at all obtrusive for my new friend Ruth to translate everything!
signing off...blessings,
beth