Reporter hears calling, turns to the pulpit
FALL CREEK, Wis. -- The new pastor at two small Presbyterian congregations in Wisconsin doesn't have much trouble relating current events to his faith.
Steve Scott was a journalist for 23 years at Minnesota's second-largest newspaper, the St. Paul Pioneer Press. He spent the last five of them covering religion.
But when the newspaper decided to reassign Scott during lean times, he decided to take a buyout and pursue a different path as a minister, like his father was.
The 49-year-old describes both of his careers as callings. He says he felt called to become a journalist when he was 14. Now he feels called to be a minister.
He believes a calling is for anyone trying to figure out how to use their abilities to make the world a better place.
Yet, Scott ponders a common question he gets about journalism and religion.
"Cynically, some of my friends have asked me: 'What are you thinking? You left the newspaper business, and you're going into the church business?' They sort of share a demographic of a certain age, and they're both wondering why young people don't seem that interested.
"Perhaps there's a point. But I believe in newspapers, and I believe in the church, and despite their flaws, if we didn't have either one ..."
Cruises: Try Arctic Circle instead of the beach
Most travelers who book winter cruises are trying to escape the cold weather by heading to Mexico or the Caribbean. But the expedition cruise company Hurtigruten is betting that some travelers will bundle up to experience the wildlife, culture and scenery of Norway above the Arctic Circle.
Hurtigruten is offering six itineraries between January and March along Norway's 1,250-mile west coast between Bergen and Kirkenes, with each seven-to-12-day trip offering different experiences and adventures. Fares range from $2,499 to $6,048 per person, double occupancy, with higher rates for suites.
Fares include round-trip tickets from JFK, domestic land transfers and flights, land hotels, all meals onboard and port fees. Details are available at 800-323-7436 or www.hurtigruten.us.
The Associated Press
