Pastor's Page

What’s in a Name?

One of the first things I like to do coming to a new appointment is to read the history of the church. I am especially fascinated by the name a congregation has chosen. Church names often provide insight into who the people are. On August 15, 2025 I came to Gethsemane UMC out of retirement, and I read their story. Their history clearly stated that the name, “Gethsemane”, was selected from other possibilities because it was “a place of prayer.”

The Hebrew meaning of “Gethsemane”, however, is “oil press” named that way because of the olive trees. It was just a short distance outside of Jerusalem where Jesus had prayed “as was his custom.” Matthew, Mark, and Luke’s accounts of that famous evening in Gethsemane all portray it as a place of preparation for Jesus’ crucifixion. I would also suggest that Gethsemane served as a challenge for the disciples. Would they stay awake with him? Would they remain loyal when he was arrested? How would they respond as they were “pressed” and transformed like olives harvested from the trees of Gethsemane?

I continue to learn more about this congregation and I think the name fits perfectly. Many churches at this moment in history, similar to Gethsemane UMC, are in a process of transformation for growth. It is an exciting time with challenges and opportunities. Like olives in a press, the non-essentials will be set aside. But, from the fruit which has been produced, something rich and new will come forth.  New vision, new approaches and new programs will flow from the faithful loving relationships which continue to grow here. As the prophet, Isaiah writes:

“Watch for the new thing I am going to do.

    It is happening already—you can see it now!

I will make a road through the wilderness

    and give you streams of water there.  ”
— (Isaiah 43:19)

Gethsemane UMC in Pewaukee is living up to its namesake as a garden with rich soil and good seed, sprouting and growing. It is, indeed, a place living up to its name.

Grace & Peace  

 

Pastor Ron Kral

pastor@gethsemaneumc.net

(cell) 262-894-3748