Lay ministers reconnect with Nicene Creed for daily living By Jane Moynagh What a marvelous climax to the 2007-08 Partners in Ministry program — the annual retreat weekend at the Methodist camp site in Glen Rose, Texas. Inspiring and challenging all those present were the retreat presenters, Father Hector Medina, pastor of St. Matthew parish in Arlington, and Liz Lopez of Albuquerque, New Mexico — a “dynamic duo.” Liz manages an experiential education program at the Isleta Pueblo near Albuquerque, and she also is the artistic director of the New Mexico Women’s Chorus. Music was definitely an important part of the weekend experience — Liz has such a beautiful voice. They led us to rediscover the words of the Nicene Creed as prayer and direction for our daily lives. Father Hector’s poignant personal stories and Liz’s sharing of her work with HIV/AIDS patients brought the words of the Creed and of the Resurrection stories in scripture into our present day world. Joyful laughter, tears of shared understanding, and moments of reflection happened constantly through the hours of the retreat. Who knew that Father Hector was such a stand-up comedian? Midst the giant oaks, listening to the birds sing and the water running, we shared evening and morning prayers. Mass of Celebration in the intimate chapel on the grounds at Glen Rose concluded the retreat and sent each person back to their homes to continue their own faith journey.