Well, day one is coming to a close. It is interesting to see that dysfunction runs the gamut when it comes to educational institutions. Spent the entire day in meetings about procedure. I learned a great deal but found my brain not quite ready for the onslaught of info all at once. In reality, the day was great!!! I met many new friends who are in the same boat...right along with me. Many of us are "different" but all proclaim our desire and calling to be in this very special place.

The day was not without its perils, however. It seems when things are going so well, that the devil (hope you believe in his powers because he is real) pokes his little pitch fork into your gut to bring you to a reality that you thought you had left behind. Let's just say that the reality of who and what I am is not quite as rosy in some eyes even to this day. All the more reason for me to lean on God's promises to me..."I will never leave you... forsake you," "He who began a good work in you will complete it," "Never call 'unclean' what I have made clean." Thank you God for these promises.

I met a fellow former Southern Baptist today. She is more relieved to be here, where I feel more elation. (except for the incident later this afternoon) Her father cried when she left because "women have no place in church leadership." Thank God we are past that...but many still earnestly grapple with my "place at the table." I know I am loved and cherished by so many.

Right now, I go back to my earlier post and remember that although the clouds might roll in over the Berkeley Hills during the night...The mountain is still there. God is still here, with me, loving me, affirming me and lets me know that I am OK! So from the chilly hills of Berkeley...Nite Nite.

One more thing for this morning! As I look out my window towards the Berkeley Hills, the clouds are covering the top. Hmmm....the hills were there yesterday.

So much like the journey that I am embarking on. This morning, there are many unknowns. But I know the top of the hill exists. The clouds will burn away to reveal the beauty of the top of the hills. I know, it is a bit "out there" but hey, that is how my mind is working. At least it is working.

The First Day...orientation

So...did not sleep particularly well, as I had a new alarm clock that wanted to go off every few hours or so. One thing that I should have learned already is to read the directions before trying to use a new appliance.

This is my first official day at Pacific School of Religion, in Berkeley, California. Many would ask, what is this Southern Baptist raised, Lutheran by choice, man with the dream job in Las Vegas, would go back to school at age 47. I actually ask myself the same question every day? Actually, several times a day to be honest.

The answer is both simple and complex. The simple part is there is that yearning deep inside to truly be the man of God that He wants me to be, and to have the skills to lead his people in wonderful new directions. The complex part is that for the first time, I am in an environment where I do not have to prove my right or calling to be here.

For those of you who do not know me, I am a gay man in a VERY committed relationship, called to the pastoral ministry. God led me to this beautiful place, affectionately known by many as HOLY HILL. PSR is a very special place in that its multi-denominational set-up, allows for diversity of thought and heart, while seeing the wonderful things we have in common. And yes...for all of my conservative, fundamentalist friends...they welcome, and affirm who I am as a gay man who is "called."

So that is about it for day one...I am headed off to learn the ins and outs of this special place, and probably write a few checks. God's peace be with you all this beautiful gift of a morning.

Greg