A big project

Charles tackled a big project today, volunteering to remove a large pile of branches at the Itasca Rock Garden (part of the History Center of Freeborn County). Five hours and six pickup loads later and the job was done!

A Fair Day

Charles accompanied some of the residents from Thorne Crest to the Freeborn County Fair today and had a nice time escorting one of the men around the fairgrounds.

 

A treat from Glenville

 

This morning during worship, the congregation celebrated the first month of our being together. One of the members, Roy, presented us with a handmade cross with our names on it!

A Friday task

Charles spent a few hours this morning, volunteering to paint some of the curbs that had not been painted in a good many years.

Another civic activity

Charles attended his first meeting of American Legion Post 56 tonight after being signed up by a member of the Glenville UMC.

Sunday triple header

Shelley is Glenville's reader today.

First service at Thorne Crest

Last service of the day

Our Sundays are full with three worship services! We begin at Glenville UMC, have a bit of rest, and then conclude the day with two services at Thorne Crest.
 

Art & Garden Tour 2025

Charles had a volunteer stint this afternoon with the Albert Lea Art Center's Art & Garden Tour. It was a wonderful experience at a beautiful home and meeting some very nice people!

Busy in Glenville

Before the edging

After the edging

Before the paint

After the paint

Charles spent some time at the Glenville church this morning, tending to two projects. He completed edging of the sidewalk around the church and touching up the paint on the church sign.

A visitor from Blue Earth

Our friend, Judy Clark, was in town today and spent an enjoyable time with Belinda at the Green Mill!

Sign of the time

The Glenville congregation has already claimed Charles as their pastor!

Sunday afternoon in Council Bluffs

Shortly after leaving Omaha this morning, the car developed a problem with the alternator which led to a call to AAA for a tow. Eventually, he got to a car repair place in Council Bluffs, Iowa and then by Uber to a hotel at the Ameristar Casino!

Sunday morning in Omaha

With Dr. Shropshire (middle)

 

At the Urban Abbey

Rev. Jim Wallasky shares the message  

Buttons from Urban Abbey

Charles' last morning in Omaha began with another early breakfast with other chaplains. At Charles' table, was Dr. James Shropshire, one of his professors from Wesley Theological Seminary!

Saturday in Omaha

Charles day got off to another early start with the prayer breakfast for chaplains and other specialized ministries. Attendance at two workshops and a rally for Palestinian justice gave a lot to think about!

He also ventured to the historic Haymarket area for lunch and enjoyed a treat at Voodoo Tacos (think Voodoo Donuts but with tacos!). Lots to see in the area!!

July 4 in Omaha

An early start to the day

At the Fat Putter

At the Luminarium

Charles' day got off to an early start with the gathering of the Association of Welcoming and Affirming Baptists Biennial Breakfast. It was nice to be in the midst of such an enthusiastic gathering.

A late-morning break in the schedule gave him an excuse to visit the Fat Putter, a place that is without question the most unique putt-putt venue he's ever seen!

Following another conference gathering, this one with MMBB, Charles ventured out to take in the nearby Kiewit Luminarium, an amazing combination of science, entertainment, and social gathering place. He ran into friends from his time in the Nebraska Conference, Rev. Susan & David Davies while there!

Back to Omaha

Quick stop at Cracker Barrel

All signed in!

Attendees getting orientation

Buttons!

A fellow ABHM chaplain

Charles is in Omaha for a few days, attending an American Baptist Church Mission Summit. Thorne Crest is part of that denomination's programming.
 

A new beginning

 

We had our first worship service at Glenville UMC today with Charles preaching as a "guest preacher." On July 13, he'll begin a stint as the supply preacher (think interim) for this small congregation. We are so excited to be on this journey with them.