Sometimes I wonder if the United Methodist church is just too old to make a turn-around. I talked with a younger woman today who thinks she might leave the church when our new female associate pastor comes. She was upset that we were going to move the pre-school classrooms and paint the nursery. She doesn't like the contemporary service because it has become dull to her.

I want so badly for United Methodists to see the transforming power I have found in the church. I found a church that teaches Jesus as the destination of life's journey. I found a church that teaches the universal love of Christ. I'm so proud to be a Methodist.

I'm proud to belong to a church that is willing to buck tradition. I'm glad we have female pastors. I'm glad that my church is getting one. I'm praying that people will come to our church because of her, and not the other scenario. I'm praying that Susan will love her and be overjoyed with her as a pastor.

I still see so much hope in the United Methodist Church. There are just a few cobwebs to brush away. Let's get working on that.