I am leaving early tomorrow morning to go camping in the south of France. I am so excited about it! I am going to get to see some of my friends that I have not seen since I left France almost ten months ago. These are friends that I had great times with while I lived in France. They are also all French. I am going to have a French weekend in more than on sense of the word. I will probably spend most of the weekend speaking in French with French people while being in France. That is definitely a "French" weekend.
Today was another of our Ecumenical Learning Sessions. It was interesting. The guest speaker was the director of Faith and Order. When is not directing Faith and Order he is a professor in Canada of Church History. Today's lesson was on, surprisingly enough, Church History. We learned about Church Unity and Church Disunity. For me, one of the most important things I took away from this lesson was that not everyone sees the history of the Church in the same way. The way we view the "history" flavors how we interact with people from other denominations today. Being raised in the Episcopal Church I speak the "Episcopal" (or Anglican) language. I see things in the way of an Episcopalian. I can't help it. It's not good or bad; it's just the way it is. I hadn't thought about the way my personal Church history affects the way I interact with my fellow interns here and the people that I meet that go to different Churches, or don't go to Church at all. Learning that I see them through a certain lens is helpful. It's also helpful to learn that they see me through their lens. That some things I may not have anything to do with and I may not even know about, but I am being perceived in relationship to certain events in history.
I apologize in advance for the long absence. I will not post anything until I return to work on Monday, May 4th.
Showing posts with label Maryann Philbrook. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Maryann Philbrook. Show all posts
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Reflecting on my blog
The last entry I wrote was about my work here. I see this blog as part of my work. I see this blog as a way for me to reflect on what I am doing while I am doing it. Sometimes it is hard to do that. When you are in the forest you cannot accurately say how big it is. Yet you can see the tree that is standing just in front of you in a way that you could not if you were in a helicopter looking down on the green expanse below. I believe that both viewpoints are necessary, although they cannot be actively experienced at the same time. Hopefully I can take what I learn in the forest with me into the helicopter or vice verse.
That is neither here nor there. My work here in the office has been taken over by work on the Red Book and Federation News. When I first arrived I felt like I had very little idea about what exactly I was supposed to do. Now I know what I am expected to do, but it seems almost overwhelming. Almost I say, because I can see the light at the end of the tunnel. We are going to have both these documents done in the next two weeks! I am working on making sure that they are done well. Incredible. My work here will contribute to the success of the Federation. It is a great feeling.
As for my life outside of work I am also having a good time. I met up with an old friend last night. It was so nice to see someone that I hadn't see in a year. It was also nice to have a night where I just hung out and spoke in French. I really miss just living in French. I live in English here. I speak French occasionally, I even might get complimented on it, but my life (my work, my friends my meaningful relationships etc.) is in English. I suppose that is what I expected moving here. France is such an interesting place. My friend is currently looking for a job. In France, if you are looking for a job you get money from the State. They understand that you need to live. He pointed out, though, that since the you get so much money from the State the employer pays a hefty tax to the government on every employee. Therefore it is harder to get a job because the Employer doesn't want to hire someone who will not be worth the money they have to pay both to the employee and the government. I think it's worth it - but then again I am working for very little. I guess you could even say that I am paying to work here. Fundraising. It's a constant thought in the back of my head. Constant. At least that means I
am praying about it a lot.
I have to get back to my many documents for the Red Book and Federation News! I will put up some pictures of my Wine Tasting from last Saturday, assuming I get some from my friends, and of my brilliant soccer game on Sunday. I am still sore from that game. (I also learned the word for sore last night!)
That is neither here nor there. My work here in the office has been taken over by work on the Red Book and Federation News. When I first arrived I felt like I had very little idea about what exactly I was supposed to do. Now I know what I am expected to do, but it seems almost overwhelming. Almost I say, because I can see the light at the end of the tunnel. We are going to have both these documents done in the next two weeks! I am working on making sure that they are done well. Incredible. My work here will contribute to the success of the Federation. It is a great feeling.
As for my life outside of work I am also having a good time. I met up with an old friend last night. It was so nice to see someone that I hadn't see in a year. It was also nice to have a night where I just hung out and spoke in French. I really miss just living in French. I live in English here. I speak French occasionally, I even might get complimented on it, but my life (my work, my friends my meaningful relationships etc.) is in English. I suppose that is what I expected moving here. France is such an interesting place. My friend is currently looking for a job. In France, if you are looking for a job you get money from the State. They understand that you need to live. He pointed out, though, that since the you get so much money from the State the employer pays a hefty tax to the government on every employee. Therefore it is harder to get a job because the Employer doesn't want to hire someone who will not be worth the money they have to pay both to the employee and the government. I think it's worth it - but then again I am working for very little. I guess you could even say that I am paying to work here. Fundraising. It's a constant thought in the back of my head. Constant. At least that means I
am praying about it a lot.
I have to get back to my many documents for the Red Book and Federation News! I will put up some pictures of my Wine Tasting from last Saturday, assuming I get some from my friends, and of my brilliant soccer game on Sunday. I am still sore from that game. (I also learned the word for sore last night!)
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Bending History
I just started reading this book that my Dad gave me, Bending History. It is a compilation of talks by the Rev. Joe Matthews. I just read the first chapter, but already I like it. It is strange reading something that has been such a part of your life - but you've never had before in it's original form. Joe died before I was ever born. My parents left the organization that he founded shortly after I was born. I do not have clear memories of this organization, but still The Order: Ecumenical has been such a part of my life. (Here is a link to the what the organization has become.) It is like the distant relative, Uncle Joe, that we all talk about, but I have never met. I feel that by reading this book I am being introduced to this "Uncle Joe."
It is a strange introduction, because it is not like meeting someone for the first time. Have you ever met someone who you had heard talked about so much that you felt like you already knew them? Reading the theology of this great man, is like that. I already KNOW all these things that he is saying. I was taught them. I was never taught them in a school or in a lecture. I absorbed them through my parents' life and through our discussions and through our family choices. I learned about the theology of this man through the life of my Aunts and Uncles. I learned about their faith through their decision to send me and my cousins to India when I was 14. Reading this book is like having what you've always already known explained to you.
It is a strange introduction, because it is not like meeting someone for the first time. Have you ever met someone who you had heard talked about so much that you felt like you already knew them? Reading the theology of this great man, is like that. I already KNOW all these things that he is saying. I was taught them. I was never taught them in a school or in a lecture. I absorbed them through my parents' life and through our discussions and through our family choices. I learned about the theology of this man through the life of my Aunts and Uncles. I learned about their faith through their decision to send me and my cousins to India when I was 14. Reading this book is like having what you've always already known explained to you.
Friday, April 17, 2009
Fundraising Letter
April 14, 2009
Dear Loved Ones,
During Holy Week we remember Christ’s death and resurrection- resurrection that makes possible our new life in Christ. Easter is a chance for new beginnings. I am also beginning a new part of my life. I began a year as the Communications Intern with the World Student Christian Federation (WSCF) in mid March. WSCF is also beginning a new phase of truly global integration making sure that this generation of students’ voices from all parts of the world are heard. I am excited to be a part of WSCF as it brings together Christian students from around the world to work towards peace in their own countries as well as globally. I have included a pamphlet for you that can tell you more about WSCF. I have begun a blog to share all of my joys and challenges and adventures and hopes and ideas with the world. www.maryanningeneva.blogspot.com. Please check that as I try to update it almost every day.
My work is a cornucopia of different jobs: editing journals, advocacy and networking within the WSCF as well as with other ecumenical organizations. This wide variety of work is both rewarding and challenging. The rewarding part is being an integral part of the office here. I see how my work is helping to pull together the work that everyone in the office doing . We are working together so that our vision and hope for God’s Kingdom here on Earth is brought closer to fruition. I am inspired by the work that I see being done and that I am helping to accomplish here. I am challenged because I have to take the initiative to make sure that I am using my time and talents resourcefully. I am helping to bring out my own potential as well as those with whom I work. I must work harder and in a more creative manner than I ever have before.
I see my year here as a preparation for my life back in the United States. I know that working with the WSCF will help me to discern the next steps in my vocational calling. Although I only lived in Austin a few months before moving here, I really began to feel at home there. When I return to Austin I am looking forward to again being active at St. James’ Episcopal Church. During this year I will gain experience that will help me discern my calling with clarity.
Thank you for the many ways that you have and continue to support me. I am very grateful because your donations and prayers have gotten me this far. In order for me to continue my work for an entire year I will need $23,500. Through monetary donations and pledges I have raised just over $6,500! I also received support in the form of an airline ticket as well as a computer and clothing! However, I am still very far from raising enough money to support me for an entire year. I am challenged to pray harder and work harder so that I can make sure I raise the remaining $17,000. The WSCF has promised that I will be able to stay through June. At that time we will re-evaluate our financial situation, if I do not have the majority of my money raised or pledged than I will look at going back to the United States before March.
Please send donations to the WSCF Trustees in New York. Their address is :
Trustees of the WSCF
c/o Rev. Jorge Domingues,
475 Riverside Drive, Room 1340,
New York, NY 10115
Please mark all checks with “Communications Intern.” They will be tax deductible. Please let me know if you think of anyone, or any organization, that would be interested in supporting this work.
I am excited to be a part of the WSCF. Even though I have only been here a few weeks, I know that the work that I am doing here is important in my life and in my vocational discernment. I am humbled to think that my work will also bless the lives of students around the world. I wish you all a Happy Easter!
In Christ’s Peace and Grace,
Maryann Philbrook
Dear Loved Ones,
During Holy Week we remember Christ’s death and resurrection- resurrection that makes possible our new life in Christ. Easter is a chance for new beginnings. I am also beginning a new part of my life. I began a year as the Communications Intern with the World Student Christian Federation (WSCF) in mid March. WSCF is also beginning a new phase of truly global integration making sure that this generation of students’ voices from all parts of the world are heard. I am excited to be a part of WSCF as it brings together Christian students from around the world to work towards peace in their own countries as well as globally. I have included a pamphlet for you that can tell you more about WSCF. I have begun a blog to share all of my joys and challenges and adventures and hopes and ideas with the world. www.maryanningeneva.blogspot.com. Please check that as I try to update it almost every day.
My work is a cornucopia of different jobs: editing journals, advocacy and networking within the WSCF as well as with other ecumenical organizations. This wide variety of work is both rewarding and challenging. The rewarding part is being an integral part of the office here. I see how my work is helping to pull together the work that everyone in the office doing . We are working together so that our vision and hope for God’s Kingdom here on Earth is brought closer to fruition. I am inspired by the work that I see being done and that I am helping to accomplish here. I am challenged because I have to take the initiative to make sure that I am using my time and talents resourcefully. I am helping to bring out my own potential as well as those with whom I work. I must work harder and in a more creative manner than I ever have before.
I see my year here as a preparation for my life back in the United States. I know that working with the WSCF will help me to discern the next steps in my vocational calling. Although I only lived in Austin a few months before moving here, I really began to feel at home there. When I return to Austin I am looking forward to again being active at St. James’ Episcopal Church. During this year I will gain experience that will help me discern my calling with clarity.
Thank you for the many ways that you have and continue to support me. I am very grateful because your donations and prayers have gotten me this far. In order for me to continue my work for an entire year I will need $23,500. Through monetary donations and pledges I have raised just over $6,500! I also received support in the form of an airline ticket as well as a computer and clothing! However, I am still very far from raising enough money to support me for an entire year. I am challenged to pray harder and work harder so that I can make sure I raise the remaining $17,000. The WSCF has promised that I will be able to stay through June. At that time we will re-evaluate our financial situation, if I do not have the majority of my money raised or pledged than I will look at going back to the United States before March.
Please send donations to the WSCF Trustees in New York. Their address is :
Trustees of the WSCF
c/o Rev. Jorge Domingues,
475 Riverside Drive, Room 1340,
New York, NY 10115
Please mark all checks with “Communications Intern.” They will be tax deductible. Please let me know if you think of anyone, or any organization, that would be interested in supporting this work.
I am excited to be a part of the WSCF. Even though I have only been here a few weeks, I know that the work that I am doing here is important in my life and in my vocational discernment. I am humbled to think that my work will also bless the lives of students around the world. I wish you all a Happy Easter!
In Christ’s Peace and Grace,
Maryann Philbrook
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