Much has changed over these last few years. I have semi-retired, stepping down as pastor of the First Evangelical Free Church of Sacramento after 21 1/2 years. I helped with the transition to the new pastor - Curt Parton - a fine man who will do a wonderful job. I'm keeping my hand in things by accepting the position as Coordinator of Credentialing for the Western District, EFCA. I will be helping people as they pursue licensing and ordination through the Free Church. I've also had the privilege of preaching in several churches, filling-in for their pastor for the week.
Another big change is accepting a position as a substitute teacher for the Robla Elementary School District. My wife, who is the nurse for the school district, encouraged me to try. I was skeptical at first because my background in education is very sparse. Nevertheless, I went through the process and encountered a delightful question when I interviewed. "Would you be willing to be a substitute at the preschool?"
Back in my days in seminary, I had a job working for Trinity Lutheran Church Preschool in Norwalk, CA. I was originally hired to fill the need of "a janitor with a music background". They wanted someone to develop a music program for the afternoon and then clean the preschool. That became almost three years of tremendous fun!
Fast forward to 2015 and I am working in grades preschool through 6th and having a blast. I think the most encouraging thing about this position is the blend of two ideas. First, I get to encourage and help kids, which is always a favorite of mine. But, second, it's short-term. I work for a day or maybe a week in a classroom. I get to do all the fun aspects of teaching. (Let me tell you that I am in awe of today's teachers! They have to do so much more than read a story or figure out math problems. They are on the front-lines of nurturing and developing the next generation).
Soccer is still a big part of my life ... although I find this year it's becoming a drag. I am now coaching two teams. The first - the Citrus Heights Dolphins - is in their seventh year with me. We started as 6-7 year olds and girls are now 13-14. Each year, I have sent 2-4 players up to play at a more competitive level, but this means adding new players each year. This year we had a 50% changeover from another team and we've had a tough time integrating the two teams. We're getting there, but it takes constant attention.
My other team is the Citrus Heights Mighty Pandas - a team of 4-5 year-old boys ad girls, all who have never played soccer on a regular team. We've spent most of our year learning which way to go, not playing the ball with our hands, and learning the boundaries of the field. One of my more consistent players has three goals ... all in the opponent's goal!
This means that soccer refereeing has taken a hit. With the changes made by U.S. Youth Soccer, there is not a need for referees before the level of U10. The changes in field size and team size still allows me to work with the younger kids, but now it's just a matter of time.
