COVER STORY
Spiritual soup By Brian J. Lowney
For many South Coast residents, the start of the new year means an opportunity to head south and enjoy bright sunshine, warmer temperatures, and perhaps a few rounds of golf. Pastor Ken MacMillan of St. Paul United Methodist Church, New Bedford, shares that both winter and the COVID-19 pandemic offers people of all ages an opportunity to “slow down and be reminded to enjoy and appreciate life each day.” He adds that once these
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This pandemic and the winter months are not forever things. Bring positivity into your and other people’s lives and make each and every day the best one possible.
Pastor Ken MacMillan
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January 2021 | The South Coast Insider
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Folks, however, who can’t enjoy a few weeks or months in the tropics, can dispel the winter doldrums and enjoy life to its fullest even when temperatures plummet and there’s a foot of snow on the ground or the pavement is covered with a sheet of ice.
conditions improve and return to a degree of normalcy, people should not resort to a hectic life but rather should be more mindful of caring for each other and enjoying life’s simple blessings. “I just try to enjoy nature as much as I can,” the minister begins. “I take walks and quick drives in the car and roll down the window and enjoy some fresh air.” Adding that his goal is not to be “cooped up,” the pastor adds he keeps his sanity by frequently taking on new projects in his busy house, helping his wife and their champion Salukis, and assisting his two sons with their school work. The pastor also oversees two active urban churches and their ministries and operates a successful web design company. “It’s important to get outside and enjoy most aspects of life but still avoid personal contacts,” he continues. “You simply can’t shut yourself off from the world.” Pastor MacMillan emphasizes the importance of individuals to “remain
