Installed and Ordained

Back in July, I found myself at a crossroads. I made a decision to quit pursuing something I had always thought I wanted. I have not regretted that decision for one moment and I do believe it was absolutely the best decision for me.

I believe God thought so too.

This, my friends, is no exaggeration: I crafted the final email tendering my resignation. I sat for a moment contemplating. I hit the "send" button. I got up from my computer and went to check the mail. In the mail was a letter from my church calling me to become a deacon.

Did you just see God wink at me?

I did.

There was no contemplation, no weighing of time commitments, no discussion with my poor husband.

There was only an "of course I'll do it".

So, this Sunday after a nomination and acceptance, a congregational nod and vote, weeks of classes, a very friendly exam and acceptance by the Session, our class of deacons and elders was installed and ordained.

Installed as in standing in front of the congregation and answering "I will" and "I do" to many questions of what we believe and what we will do and how we will serve.

Ordained as in kneeling on the steps as current and former officers lay their hands on us and invest the authority and responsibility of the church in us.

Kneeling there...on the steps of the Chancel...with the hands of others on my shoulders...hearing the prayer...surrounded and humbled...

profound is an understatement.

It was an unexpected moment.

And suddenly it is well, it is well, with my soul.