Author: Em Seinemeier

Em is a seasoned mentor, supervisor, trainer and facilitator with a heart to see people develop and thrive in their sense of identity and vocation. She is an accredited minister with the Churches of Christ in WA with over 20 years experience. Through journeying with pastors, leaders and chaplains, and from her own story as a minister and Jesus-follower, Em is convinced of the deep value of collaborative relationships, courageous conversations, intentional reflective space, and sustainable rhythms in fostering fulfilling professional and lay practice. Em has navigated key seasons of transition and change in her ministry and family life, and she recognises the potential of such times for growth. She loves challenging podcasts, travel to cold places, and altogether too much tea!
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That Which Continues

That Which Continues

I’m not going to lie, the sunset view from here is pretty great. Margaret River in the Southwest of WA is an exceptionally beautiful place to be spending the weekend – I’m surrounded by quiet, and green, and really good coffee shops.

Usually, the start of a new year has me full of plans, wonderings and optimism for the days ahead. I love the energy of beginnings. However, as I sit under the cooling canopy of these majestic trees this evening, I notice how the instability of recent world events and their echoes here in Australia have me more distracted than usual. I notice that my patience is thinner for tricky people, and as I breathe in the sea air and exhale, the tension in my shoulders and neck releases … and I realise it’s as if I’ve been bracing myself. The new, sparkly possibilities aren’t fuelling me in the same way this year, and I’m just not one to bury my head in the sand and pretend otherwise. So, what then? From where do I draw life and hope as a mentor at the start of 2025? Continue reading “That Which Continues”

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Making Room

And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no place in the guest room. Luke 2:7

“and they shall name him Immanuel”, which means, “God is with us.” Matt 1:27

Is your Christmas tree up yet? Ours will be making its entrance this weekend, and as I write, I’m sitting next to the empty corner I’ve prepared for its arrival. Our family have lived in many places over the years, and while what passes for a Christmas tree has varied, some form of decoration that captures the anticipation of gathering to celebrate continues to be a meaningful rhythm for us. There’s just something about getting ready.

Perhaps you’re part of a church community where candles, readings, art or music are part of your tradition of advent reflection and preparation? The liturgical year can offer us a wonderful sense of being on a journey together with Jesus-followers all over the world as we’re reminded of the birth of Immanuel, God with us … We seek to make room in our hearts and our gatherings for the presence of Christ, as God extends to us divine hospitality in coming to dwell among us.

Continue reading “Making Room”

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Hope for Halfway

Hope for Halfway: Some thoughts for mentors

At my house last week, it was a little crazy. The previously uninitiated had Covid, while I played taxi-driver to my husband who had a newly broken thumb, all while trying to complete some key projects. So, by Friday evening I was entertaining my favourite escapist activity: holiday planning where I’d rather be. A walking holiday of the South Island, Aotearoa New Zealand sounded perfect – mountains, bracing air, and greener than green as far as the eye can see. As I traced my imaginary route, I came upon this, the only available accommodation in one remote spot:

Yes, when my feet are sore and my muscles are aching from an active day traversing wild terrain, yearning for a bath and a hot meal, we arrive at Hope Halfway hut! It looks like a Hobbit’s garden shed, and according to the facilities listed, there is water (from the stream) and a non-flushing toilet, but at least there seems to be a mattress!

As we reach the mid-point of the year and June begins, I wonder what “hope halfway” is looking like for you, and for those you mentor? Reflecting on the landscape of your year this far, has it been rocky ground you’ve covered or a gentle hike so far? How are your muscles holding up to the workout? Maybe you’re making fabulous progress, thriving on the journey’s challenges, or perhaps a mattress in this rustic shed is looking really good right now!

Continue reading “Hope for Halfway”