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As I looked at my calendar this morning, I couldn’t help but reflect on how fitting it is in light of our summer sermon series, Journeying with Jesus. Next week, I’ll be journeying to Florida to serve as one of the mentors for a special scholarship program within the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry (GBHEM) of the United Methodist Church. The program, Journey Toward Ordained Ministry (JTOM), supports seminary students not only with scholarships, but also with intentional preparation for the ordination process.

This opportunity holds special meaning for me because I was once a recipient of the JTOM scholarship during my own seminary years. Now, I return not as a student, but as a mentor and am grateful for the chance to walk alongside the next generation of ministry leaders. Another interesting fact is that this program is led by Rev. Trip Lowery, who grew up right here at Surfside UMC.

Soon after I return from Florida—while some of you will be heading to the Festival of Wisdom and Grace with Rev. Mary and Rev. Jeff at Lake Junaluska—I’ll be traveling to Greensboro, NC to participate in the Reynolds Program in Church Leadership. There, I will continue being mentored by seasoned leaders who will help shape me into a more effective and faithful servant in ministry.

As I reflect on this season of life and ministry, I’m filled with gratitude for the journey God has brought me through—from receiving the JTOM scholarship to now serving as a mentor, I see how far I have come in my journey. And as I continue to be trained through the Reynolds Program, I see the journey that is still ahead of me.

My prayer for those attending the Festival of Wisdom and Grace—and for each of us walking our own journey with Jesus this summer—is that we open ourselves fully to the transformative work of the Holy Spirit. May we be molded, shaped, and inspired as the Holy Spirit continues to reveal new things to us. Let us keep journeying with Jesus—with open hearts, willing spirits, and trust in the One who leads us forward.

Pastor Tae Park