GreggTownsley.com

At Least My Dog Loves Me

One of our church’s sextons has the unique talent of knowing how and when to say “wah” to me. Putting the experience into print can’t possibly describe the annoying whining sound he makes when he says the word, but I guess I sometimes deserve it given my occasional habit of complaining how really, really bad my life is.

Before I bellyache further, you need to know that my head understands that my life couldn’t be better. I’m married to a wonderful woman. I have kids who love me, grandchildren who think that I’m funny, a business that occasionally pays me money, a congregation that I enjoy being a part of and ministering in, and a dog who thinks that I walk next to Jesus.

Continue Reading…

My First Month at FGUCC

I’m so pleased to at the Forest Grove United Church of Christ. It’s quite a break from my usual day in business. I’ve spent the last few years, since leaving the Presbyterian Church in 2001, developing martial arts studios in Hillsboro and Sherwood. And while I’ve enjoyed the teaching—at one point, we had children’s karate programs in six Hillsboro elementary schools as well as a full-time studio—it’s great to be back in the church doing what I was first felt called to do.

Continue Reading…

Bad Habits Die Hard

I know the number of my family or friends who like or use guns are few, but I came across the following article online the other day. I thought it would be interesting and instructive for those who do. And frankly, given the amount of gun handling I’m doing nowadays–no, not because I’m working in the church, shame on you, but because I’m working on my cowboy fast draw and spinning skills–it seemed not only helpful but important that I personally get up to speed. As quickly as possible, if you know what I mean.

Continue Reading…

Back in the Saddle (Again)

Getting older and wiser, right?

I’ll be starting at the Forest Grove United Church of Christ in June as Interim Pastoral Staff. Pastor Dick Kroll is retiring at the end of June–Nancy and I are sure going to miss him–and there’s some hope that I’ll be able to help “fill the void” while the church continues its search for a Minister of Worship and Administration.

I’m looking forward to the time there. In no small way because I’ll get to know our new Minister of Youth and Families, the Rev. Angela Horton-Gapay, who started just a couple of months ago. And also because it will offer me an opportunity to apply my skills in a much smaller setting than I’m used to. Folks are estimating that the position may last as long as six months; I’m thinking the search will take less time.

Continue Reading…