Day One

Today is day one of  Chaplain's University in Branson, Missouri at the College of the Ozarks, sponsored by Christian Resort Ministries. College of the Ozarks is Hard Work U, where students do not pay tuition, work for their education, and graduate without debt! An absolutely gorgeous campus with every type of work concept that you can think of.

We checked in yesterday at the Mission House, directly across the parking lot from the training center, a homey, convenient place to stay for the week. We were greeted by our CRM chaplain friends,, many of whom we had not seen since last fall or even earlier. After a time of reuniting, visiting, and relaxing, we prepared ourselves for the first day of training.

Beginning day one, after a quick breakfast with other Mission House residents, was check-in. Barbara Reusch, watch-dog queen of check in, made sure everyone was checked in properly, had all information available, and was ready to start today's session.

Barbara,  making sure we are all properly checked in

Bob and Barbara Ostermaier, from Enid, OK checking in

As registration was going on, we were invited to sample the Java Offerings - morning nutritional food with thanks and praises to Sally Maloney. Again, we greeted those new ones we had not seen since last year, with inquiries as to  the what, where, and when in their lives since we last saw them.  As everyone related their experiences, I saw God at work in each and every one of them - how their relationship to God had matured and expanded in those few short months.

Just a small sampling of morning refreshments

Karen Gregory, a wounded warrior, eagerly awaiting the morning session

The session opened with co-founders of CRM, Dennis Maloney and Bob Ruesch welcoming us all, doing the general housekeeping duties, songs of praise, and an outline of the day's adventure!

Dennis Maloney

Bob Ruesch

Opening devotions were lead by Dr. Dan Griffin, an eloquent and articulate speaker, always with a simple but inspiring message from our Lord. I always look forward to hearing him present the message, with all of my expectations met.




Dr. Dan Griffin

 The first two day's sessions, which were presented by Luke Kuepfer were based on "Lead Like Jesus" by becoming a servant leader. Before we can do, we have to be. We learned a new definition of leadership: Anytime you seek to influence the thinking behavior or development of others, you are taking on the role of leader. We were taken through various break-out sessions, where we interacted with each other, picking our brains for thoughts, ideas, and Biblical reasoning. Almost too soon, lunch time arrived, and again we were presented with as wonderful meal and time for fellowship.




Luke Kuepfer, instructing us to lead like Jesus

A time to refuel

If the rest of the week follows today's teaching and learning, we are going to be well fed, both spiritually and physically. I just pray that I will be able to retain and put into action a portion of what I have learned. Hopefully, by referring to my notes, I can add to and apply all that is important to be well founded in leadership .

ending the day with song and worship