Blog Post: Breaking Free from the Victim Mentality While Embracing Vulnerability

by Rev. NicoleCoaching, Community, LeadershipPosted on No Comments

Life is full of challenges, and how we respond to those challenges can shape our sense of self, our relationships, and even our spiritual growth. Two key concepts often misunderstood and mistakenly linked are the victim mentality and vulnerability. While they might appear similar, they are profoundly different, and understanding this distinction is critical for …

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Lessons from the School of Hard Knocks Part 1

by Rev. NicoleCoaching, Community, Leadership, RoutinesPosted on No Comments

Lessons from the School of Hard Knocks: 5 Insights for Ministry As we approach the end of the year, I find myself reflecting on the lessons I’ve learned throughout my 30+ years in ministry. This week, as I coached 11 pastors and church leaders, I was reminded of some truths I’ve picked up along the …

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Living a Liveable Rhythm

by Rev. NicoleLeadership, Lifeshapes, Valencia UMC!Posted on No Comments

This week I shared Jesus’ teaching from John 15 – “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinegrower. 2 He removes every branch in me that bears no fruit. Every branch that bears fruit he prunes to make it bear more fruit. 3 You have already been cleansed by the word that I have spoken to …

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Does it Ever Get Easier?

by Rev. NicoleAbout Me, Coaching, Faith, Leadership, Routines, Spiritual GrowthPosted on No Comments

I keep waiting for it to get easier.  Certainly, some of these things should be easier by now, right? None of what was “hard” was out of the ordinary. For example, I got back to exercising this week.  Certainly, it wouldn’t be hard to get back to this?  It’s an hour or so, of walking …

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Meditation for All

by Rev. NicoleCommunity, Faith, LeadershipPosted on No Comments

I was introduced to meditation in my 7th grade Confirmation Class. And, while it took me till much later to develop a daily practice, meditation is a cornerstone of my spiritual life. Why? It helps me slow down. It helps me reflect. It enables me to put things in perspective. And most importantly, it helps …

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by Rev. NicoleFaith, Leadership, Valencia UMC!Posted on No Comments

Thoughts on General Conference Dear Valencia UMC Friends – We are part of the United Methodist Church – a worldwide denomination that meets regularly to discuss issues that matter to its members and to the mission of Christ.   The issue of human sexuality continues to be a place for thoughtful conversation and on February …

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