Good morning everyone, and what a delight to continue my column, Coffee With Ken.
I have taken a sabbatical during the past year, however, the time is appropriate to share the interesting events with those who have so much to offer.
Therefore it is a pleasure to introduce our guest, Megan Jones, interim student pastor of St. John’s United Church, Creemore, a native of the beautiful Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia.
As a former Maritimer, it was a special privilege to exchange our various experiences as “down easters”.
Megan’s early schooling began with the Cornwallis Elementary School in Sydney, Nova Scotia, followed by the mainland in Chester.
Her dad, a carpenter, was required to address his talents by attending a variety of naval bases in selected areas.
Upon acquiring a degree from Dalhousie University, Megan enlisted in the military as an officer cadet, which led to the rank of second lieutenant with a military platoon.
After three years with the regular force, she was transferred to the reserves for a period of six years that included contacts with Halifax, Edmonton, Kingston and a brief training exchange with American units in Virginia. Finally, she returned to Base Borden where she met her husband Steve and now devotes as much time as will allow to their seven-year-old son, Jameson.
In 2008, Megan was deployed to Afghanistan as a military police officer, including a six-month commitment of duties by working with local citizens. Prior to the conclusion of these activities, she applied to become a chaplain and commenced her education at Emmanuel College for a period of three years.
Her dream is to fulfill the current role as a student minister at St. John’s for two years, prior to accepting her credentials and to be addressed as Pastor Megan Jones, her robe signifying she is now a deserved member of the cloth.
Admittedly, I have never been as challenged by writing one’s life story with respect and admiration for this lady’s zeal in the attempt to create a better world.
Enquiring as to sports activities, or hobbies, she was hesitant to admit that time had precluded thoughts of any additional curriculum, and I couldn’t refrain from accepting her rationale. However she did admit in having a desire to play the guitar, so don’t be surprised one day to see her striding down the aisle strumming a sparkling new guitar. In conclusion of this documentary, of which it was a privilege to record, I was impressed by the accomplishments achieved and the effort put forth. The dedicated assistance to her country and its people, comprised of several years and willingly applied, includes our utmost respect, the true mark of a humanitarian.
Thank you Megan, for the privilege of penning your interesting story, I suggest that anyone who reads this column, pay a visit to St. John’s United Church at 11 a.m. Sunday and offer a friendly welcome to our recent pastor, Megan Jones.
As one voice, Megan, we wish you every success, and may God bless.