Dear Ones! I met with the COM and the Standing Committee on Thursday, Sept. 8th and I am delighted to report that I have been approved for ordination as a transitional deacon. The tentative date for ordination is Saturday, Oct. 15th. In our tradition, one usually serves as a transitional deacon for six months and then requests ordination for the priesthood. The COM was gracious and will assist me by finding a mentor priest for me during my diaconate.
I do have a lot of questions: where will I serve my diaconate; when is that determined [the Bishop, Michael Hanley, makes the assignment]; how does the tentative date become definitive? Well, Neysa Ellgren, the Canon at the Diocese of Oregon will hopefully have answers or know who does. I'll be scheduling time with Neysa+ in the near future at her office in Portland, OR.
I've created a new page that explains what a verbatim is and I'll have two examples of my verbatims from my recent CPE. Of course, names and some details have been changed to protect the privacy of the people involved.
I will also add some sermons. These additions will allow communities that are looking at me as a possible priest will have a chance to learn about me from this blog. I will also create a page for your thoughts on my qualifications as a priest--what you think my strengths and weaknesses are. More about all of this in the near future.
I am missing my family in Denver. My brother and sister-in-law were so gracious. The large extended family made my summer so special. Both my partner, Kathleen, and my dog, Ladybug, are glad to have me home. I still have much to unpack.
I want to thank again both the communities at Resurrection in Eugene and St. John the Divine in Springfield for their support--both spiritual and practical. This long road has been made more smooth by their friendship and kindness. Thank you so much.
