This may be a surprise to you: General Assembly is a good time. Sometimes we get so busy thinking about the business of the General Assembly that we forget one of the best parts of the experience — being together.
It is easy to be overwhelmed by trying to read everything, to understand the process, and anticipating what might happen. All of that is part of what it means to go to a General Assembly. It is not everything. As I read back through my notes about the business, there is almost a tenor of dread that seems to lurking. Business involves choices that will please some and displease others. Anticipating what might happen can generate quite a bit of anxiety.
Yet the truth is that I look forward to going to General Assembly. It is appropriate to anticipate having a good time at General Assembly. For first-timers, it is a sight and spectacle to behold. The all-church worship time on Sunday morning is incredible. There is a sense of awe at being in the midst of thousands of Presbyterians from all over the country, joining together to praise the Lord. The Exhibit Hall is like the denomination’s version of the State Fair. Though they may not be able to serve chocolate covered bacon (something I did not have the courage or anticoagulants to try), you will find things there that are unavailable anywhere else. There are booths from all around the country and items from all around the world. To apply a cliche, it is a festival of sight and sound.
For veterans and old-timers, it is a reunion of friends. There is a bonding that takes place transcending distance and time. Some of my best friendships have developed out of General Assembly. We laugh together, cry together, throw up our hands in frustration together, and remember together. There’s more time in between Assemblies now; but that does not change how quickly we get back into a groove once we are all in one place.
Take time to meet other people. Take time to sit with other people. Take pictures. Share stories. Commiserate about the struggles you are having in your congregation and while also sharing things that bring you joy. Come prepared with stories because the testimonies we hear about God’s transformative hand at work in the lives of people through the ministries and missions of Presbyterians around the world are always encouraging.
My point? It is ok to have a good time at General Assembly. That is what I am going to do.