This evening marks the culmination of a long journey. Feeling called by our God in heaven, and inspired and driven by the Holy Spirit who lives and breathes with us through all our waking lives, I embarked upon this journey to Commissioned Ministry in the United Church of Christ in the fall of 2014. It’s been a long and winding process, one which has taught me a lot about the UCC’s history, polity, and structures. One that has also taught me about myself, how to self-reflect to an even deeper level than I’d thought I was capable, and which has given me the confidence to speak clearly and freely about my beliefs outside the walls of my sanctuary (meant according to both its definitions).
It’s also taught me that there are people around every corner who want to help us along our paths. From the moment I learned of Commissioning (from an article by Peter Stickney in the UCC Musicians Association quarterly journal), I have found that to be true. I contacted him back then, three years ago now, for some advice beyond what was printed in the article, and to this day he has become a mentor from afar, inquiring periodically as to my progress, and praying for me.
Strangers become acquaintances, become friends. Many who gather to support me this evening have written letters of recommendation, mentored me on the UCC and its ways, and served on the committees which has examined me on multiple occasions. Even those who come to this Ecclesiastical Council are mentors to me, for they have given of their time this evening, and will help choose my fate in this program.
Tonight’s prepared remarks stem from many posts that have originated on this site. As such, I am using this post as an index of sorts, for those who wish to read more.
…from the section on my walk through Christ
My mentor at Nassau Presbyterian Church, and the idea of the “first choir”
The power of scripture for a musician
My article in the UCCMA journal
My clarity space, the White Mountains
…from the section on my walk with music
Decision Point Navigation sermon
That first college rehearsal, Fall ’95
The Beautiful Community sermon
An interesting occurrence at my senior recital (bonus material!)
My tech presentation at American Choral Directors Association 2016
Saving the World Through Singing at ACDA 2016
My inaugural post on this site which coined “The Beautiful Community”