Some of you joined us for the Installation service for Reverend Dr. Julie Cedrone this past Sunday. It was quite a celebration! A large crowd packed into the First Congregational Church in Auburn to celebrate her arrival and to begin the eternal dance, as once speaker reminded us, that is the relationship between pastor and church.

I wish her and the congregation at Auburn every success! As a part of her service, I was asked to bring “The Charge to the Pastor.” This is a chance for someone who knows her to offer up some words of encouragement—and caution—in her ongoing ministry of Word and Sacrament. I made a list, and shared it with you during my own sermon.

The only question I got from anyone was about the last item (and yes, I cheated—it was really a three-in-one). I said, “And number ten, finally: Matthew 25. Psalm 121. James 3:1. Godspeed and amen.” If you knew the references that was fine. But not everyone did. So here they are!

Matthew 25

for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me.

-Matthew 25:35-36 (NRSV)

One of my favorite passages in the bible, Matthew 25 is an admonition to care for the downtrodden and the oppressed. Jesus reminds us that when we do this we are caring for him as well.

Psalm 121

I lift up my eyes to the hills—
   from where will my help come?
My help comes from the Lord,
   who made heaven and earth.

-Psalm 121:1-2 (NRSV)

This lovely poetic song is a reminder that no matter what we’re going through, we can always turn to God for help. It’s good for folks in ministry to hear it. Sometimes we think we have to do everything ourselves, and we forget not only our capable volunteers, but also that God is always ready to help!

James 3:1

Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers and sisters, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness.

-James 3:1

This passage of warning was supposed to be a tongue-in-cheek nod for anyone who knew the scripture and could get the joke—as if being judged would keep Julie out of ministry! I think she got it, and I heard a few chuckles from the congregation. On the other hand, it’s also a good reminder: someone is always watching, and when we’re in the public eye, we need to tame our speech and actions sometimes!

I’ve given you a fuller portion of the scripture so you can see this admonition in context if you follow the link.

Thanks to all our Pilgrims who attended!

I really appreciated your coming out on a Sunday afternoon, and I know Julie did as well. It was lovely to have your support and solidarity for this special service. If you missed the installation and you’d like to watch it, visit First Congregational Church in Auburn’s Facebook page, where the service recording is available.