Looking toward Pittsburgh

I’m excited for the Mennonite Convention in Pittsburgh this year. It’s just one month away and here are a few of my random, scattered thoughts on it:

Two years ago in Columbus I went as a young adult and I loved the freedom that gave me. I went to some youth sessions and some adult sessions. I floated around and loved it immensely!
This year I’m going as a youth sponsor and I’ll have more responsibility to stick with the youth. I’m sure it’ll still be great, but I wish I could be more involved with the adults.

Last convention I was disappointed that the debate on homosexuality didn’t really seem to reach a conclusion. It was a huge conversation that was given very little resolution. It left me looking forward to Pittsburgh where it could be addressed further and hopefully a stance could be taken.
This year I’m excited for the dialogue on homosexuality, but I’ll be extremely disappointed if it’s given too much attention. The purpose of the church isn’t to judge right and wrong and focusing on that too much would be a waste of our time. The purpose of the church is to participate in God’s work on earth. Those conversations should be the priority in Pittsburgh.

Last convention, a week in Columbus was a nice vacation from my pastoral internship in Iowa. I was grateful for the chance to see so many family and friends that I hadn’t seen all summer.
This year, Pittsburgh will be a break from my year in Baltimore and a chance to see family and friends again. It seems like conventions are perfect times for reunions!

Does anyone else have thought looking toward Pittsburgh?