An Update Concerning Pastor Bob, Pastor Carol, and Kim Neace
The process of ordination is a long and winding road.
Last week Pastor Bob, Pastor Carol, and Kim Neace met for their “go” or “no go” interviews with the regional Board of Ordained Ministry.
We are delighted to report that Pastor Bob will be recommended to the Clergy Session of the Annual Conference for Ordination as an Elder. The Ordination Service is planned for Saturday, June 8, at the Annual Conference Session in St. Charles.
Our joy is doubled in that Kim Neace also will be recommended to the Clergy Session of the Annual Conference for Ordination as a Deacon on Saturday, June 8th, in St. Charles. We are excited to see Kim’s ministry continue to grow and be affirmed in her leadership role.
Pastor Carol’s news, however, has taken a surprisingly different turn. Here’s what Carol has to say:
This past week has been one of intense prayer and reflection for me. On Tuesday, the Board of Ordained Ministry returned from their deliberations with a “not recommended” for ordination as an elder. As harsh as that sounds, it is actually a "not yet" vs. a "no". Regardless, it's a very disappointing decision.
I am introspective by nature and typically take quite a long time to process and consider important matters. However, last week was more the sudden impact on the road to Damascus than the contemplative stroll to Emmaus. Though the experiences may fall on either end of a long continuum, the strong and precious thread that connects and holds is the very presence of Jesus Christ.
From the fall of 2005 when I sensed God’s call to ministry and applied to seminary (another story--another Damascus road!) I have been seeking to clarify that call. I love the local church yet, at the same time, I am certain an x-ray would reveal my spine is shaped for pastoral care. I always assumed I would one day serve in some capacity as a chaplain and, at 52, I am trusting God to continue to teach me to number my days wisely.
In a message a few Sundays ago, Pastor Scott said, "Let's not waste a crisis". Good advice. The next few months I will continue to pray and reflect. I will also be looking into completing the necessary training for certification as a chaplain. My ordination will come though perhaps not as soon as I had hoped. However, transitioning into chaplaincy will require that I be appointed elsewhere effective July 1, 2013.
Friends, ever since I was officially appointed here 5 years ago, you have been a constant source of support, encouragement, and affirmation. I am beyond grateful and would appreciate your continued prayers.
Pastor Carol
While this is not what we were expecting we continue to support and affirm Carol on her journey.
