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The Rev. Cynthia Nickerson, “Pastor Cindy”, is a graduate of the University of Maine and taught school for many years. She received a Master’s of Divinity Degree from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary.
As an ordained elder in the New England Conference United Methodist Church, she has served a church in Massachusetts and New Hampshire prior to her appointment to Corinth UMC in July 2004.
Pastor Cindy has a passion for God’s people and God’s word. Her life scripture is Jeremiah 29:11-13 (NIV), “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me with all your heart.”
Married for 36 years, Ron and Pastor Cindy have two adult children.
June/July/August, 2008
Dear Friends,
My trip to Nicaragua was very rewarding and all went well. Approximately 75 women attended the Women's Conference and the teaching time I had with them seemed to be well received. The unexpected there seems to bring the greatest blessing. There was a preemie baby girl and her young mother staying at the mission. It was a joy to share in Ada Nelly's care and to encourage her mother Xiamara. With much prayer, loving care, and nourishment, it was hoped they could return to their village in the northern part of Nicaragua in early June. I have not heard recently how they are doing.
With all the news reports of such tragedy throughout the world, the care of one baby and mother seems so minor, yet God calls us to do what we can, when we can, and let him take care of the harvest. He gives us so many opportunities and only asks that we be responsible to the call and passion of our hearts that He has laid upon us.
As I was watering one of my gardens earlier this week, I was lamenting of the one plant that was very wilted and looked to be without reviving. Many plants around it were quite healthy looking, and I thought, "Why is that one not okay too!? " I was impatient and perturbed because it did not look like the others. Sometimes, I admit I feel that same way about my life, our church life, and beyond. Why can't everything be okay? We just get one piece healed, conflict free, fixed up, heading in the right direction, and then there is something else to tend to. There always seems to be, and is, a wilted flower in my garden of life. How about yours?
Praise God for His provision of restoration and renewal. The Psalmist says, "...he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul." (Psalm 23:2-3) Jesus said..."If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me,...streams of living water will flow from within him." (John 7:37-38)
Life has its troubles just like my garden always has a wilted plant (or two!), but we must not forget and can be encouraged by the blessings that bloom amidst the troubles. Oftentimes, the "wilting" times, situations and circumstances are the opportunities God allows in our lives so we will continue to seek and receive his "living water" in his son Jesus Christ and his Holy Spirit.
God fulfills his promises and restores and refreshes those who trust in Him just as the wilted plant after receiving a good soaking looked healthy and strong.
My prayer for you and me is that we be especially attentive to the times in our lives when God is leading us beside quiet waters. I believe with all my heart that he is the restorer of our souls and the strength of our lives because He loves us with an everlasting love. (Jeremiah 31:3) As you enjoy and toil in your gardens this summer, fish in the stream, enjoy the pool, or visit by the water, think on these things.
Enjoy your summer vacations. Stay connected with the Lord through His Word and Worship wherever you may be, home or away.
Love in Jesus
Pastor Cindy
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