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Greg Smith

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Giving Thanks – 10 Experiences in 2023 (#2089)

2023/11/16 By Greg

I am thankful for all of the life experiences I’ve had since last Thanksgiving. Today, I highlight 10 that are particularly memorable and provide links to additional writing related to those experiences:

Family at Greg’s Ordination Service
  1. Being ordained to ministry in the United Church of Christ (My Ordination & Installation)
  2. Celebrating my 25th wedding anniversary with a trip to New Orleans, Louisiana and Navarre, Florida
  3. Starting my 3rd year at White Rock Center of Hope (Starting Year 3 at White Rock Center of Hope) and shifting from Executive Director to Chief Executive Officer
  4. Initiating new traditions, including Friendsgiving (Friendsgiving) and Easter (A New Easter Tradition)
  5. Enjoying time with my family of origin and of choice, including multiple visits by Heather
  6. Returning to the pulpit to preach 7 times in 5 congregations after taking a break for a few years (Sermons)
  7. Returning to writing curriculum after taking a break for a few years (Freeing Jesus – Small Group Opportunities & Resources)
  8. Serving as a volunteer Life Group (formerly known as Small Group) Leader and as a Life Group Team Leader at Cathedral of Hope
  9. Serving as Chair on the Board of Directors of the Texas Association of Charitable Clinics
  10. Serving as a contributor to Lectionary for Life Series for the Center for Congregational Ethics (Abiding Contentment and Holy Ground Ahead)
Navarre Beach (photo by Greg Smith)

So What?

Thanksgiving is a season not a single day. I invite you to reflect on your experiences over the last year through the lens of giving thanks. And, set aside some time to share words of thankfulness with some of the people connected to those memories.

For further reading check out posts from prior years

  • Giving Thanks – 10 Experiences in 2022
  • Giving Thanks – 10 Experiences in 2021

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Greg Smith

Greg is a follower of the Way of Jesus who strives to make the world a better place for all people. Currently, he serves as Chief Executive Officer of White Rock Center of Hope and as Interim Senior Pastor of Advent Lutheran Church. He has served ten congregations, taught religion to undergraduates for eight years, and helped three organizations provide quality healthcare to underserved populations. (Read More)

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