Elizabeth Dilley

Hi all,

As the math nerds among us probably know, next Thursday is Pi Day. Pi is the ratio represented by the circumference of a circle divided by its diameter, or 3.14.1592653(it goes on forever). Here's a brief article about Pi: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/what-is-pi-and-how-did-it-originate/.

This day is popularly celebrated with PIE! So I plan to bring in some pies next Thursday, and I want to invite folk to join me if you're so inclined. Bring a pie to share - sweet or savory. And let others know what pies you're planning to bring in the comments! 

Okay, but does everyone know that "the good ice" is over in the kitchenette near Finance? Because that's where I go! 

Near West Theatre is a part of Cleveland's outstanding theatre scene - it's a community theatre that specializes in musicals and shows with lots of kids, and it has a huge heart for the Detroit-Shoreway neighborhood. This year, they are once again partnering with the West Clinton Block Club to produce "Historic Haunts," an interactive neighborhood show that tells spooky stories from Cleveland's history. And, well, my kiddo and I are in the show together. It's going to be a hoot and half, and if you're able to come, I'd love to see you! More information is here: https://www.nearwesttheatre.org/shows-events/2022-23/historic-haunts. 

Do you like to eat honey? Of course you do. 

Do you like supporting local farmers? You bet your sweet bippy you do! 

Here's a chance to do BOTH! Support a local farmer by buying delicious, delicious honey, made locally in Cleveland. Mariah Hayden, spouse of @Malcolm Himschoot, has a bountiful harvest of honey. I can personally attest to how delicious and wonderful it is. She has a lot to sell before they move next month, so if you are interested, email her at upcyclefarm AT gmail.com. This massive jar of honey is a bargain at $20 - but you have to act fast because they are moving soon. I'll be helping coordinate the delivery of the honey, but you'll want to act between now and November 10. 

HONEY!!! 

Dear colleagues,

It is with extremely mixed emotions that I share the news that Rev. Malcolm Himschoot, Minister for Ministerial Calls and Transitions, has accepted a new call in Orono, Maine, and thus will be leaving the national setting. His last day is November 30, but due to vacation and other considerations, his final day in the office will be November 13. 

During his time on the national staff, Malcolm has been responsible for project management related a number of significant projects, including: online ministry opportunities page, a digital version of the Ministerial Profile, a Snapshot database for conference staff who are resourcing search and call, updating the Local Church Profile, the Stretching Beyond... video series on overcoming bias, a Search and Call kit for churches, and many other things. His thought leadership led to one of MESA's most popular events at Synod - the Search and Call Fair - and to many other cross-team, ecumenical, and cohort-related projects and connections. This short list doesn't even begin to cover half of what Malcolm has done. Malcolm is a wise, visionary thinker, generous of heart and passionate about ministerial excellence. He has built and strengthened relationships across the denomination and beyond our denominational borders, and we'll be sad to see him go. 

At the same time, his joy at returning to local church ministry is palpable, and so we also celebrate the new beginning to which he heads so enthusiastically! 

Please join me in sharing your appreciation for Malcolm's ministry below. 

In peace,

Elizabeth Dilley

MESA Team Leader

Thank you so much for sharing this information with us. These regular updates are quite helpful as we move forward together as one unified staff!