Since 2008, as the world has fallen into an economic crisis unlike any since the Great Depression, incredibly, the judicatories of the PCUSA have fiddled. Their lack of attention to the problems of the world is a form of institutional narcissism.

The pulpit shelves hold several burned-out candle lighters, because they could possibly be refilled or fixed. The library has CE curriculum from 1973, still good because it was never used. Somewhere in the balcony there's a stack of "Christmas Joy" envelopes so yellow you suspect they were printed the year Jesus turned two.

The old model of multicultural ministry was for the "big church" to share church space with an ethnic church that would meet on Sunday afternoon. In effect, the relationship was landlord to tenant and everything went smoothly so long as the lease was not violated. Typically, no attempt was made to integrate ministries or share services.

One thing I have learned about a life in relationship with God is that it is never dull or predictable. Placing myself in the service of the Living God means I must be ever vigilant in listening for God's voice and God's desire for me-which means life changes . . . and calls change.