The final weekend

[zyzyly]

Arlina and I are off to the final weekend of my deacon formation program. I remember getting ready to leave for the first one, and thinking how 40 weekends (over 4 years) seemed like forever. At the time, someone told me it would pass in the blink of an eye, and it has.

A few weeks ago I had a meeting with the bishop of my diocese. We spoke for a while about my formation, and the various ministries I have been involved with over the years. I told him about my life, and the twists and turns it has taken. We spoke of Arlina's illness, and the challenges and blessings it has brought us. At the end he asked me if I wanted to be ordained, and I said yes.

Last Friday I received a letter from him, inviting me to receive the sacrament of Holy Orders as a deacon. My ordination will be June 5th.

I have written of my struggles with discernment, and the decision that I would eventually have to make about whether to be ordained or not. I have spent much time in prayer and reflection, and now feel at peace.

For those of you who have been praying for me, I ask you to continue. The road ahead is a difficult one, and I am unable to walk it without help.

Peace.

Comments

[ldygwynedd.livejournal.com]

How blessed are you... how blessed are we to have you.

You and Arlina are as always in my prayers.

[daisydumont.livejournal.com]

best wishes and many blessings to you both! i'll keep you in my prayers.

[ruralrob.livejournal.com]

I'm not one for prayers in the conventional sense, but certainly I'll go for tons of warm wishes being sent your way. Your journey is an amazing one and I'm so glad youve reached the decision you've just related. I think plain old-fshioned congratulations are also in order.

[detroitfather.livejournal.com]

Congratulations!!!

My amazing powers of insight predict...

[felixbunay.livejournal.com]

...fulfillment, comfort, and success.

My amazing powers of insight are never wrong.

I even used the Magic 8-Ball to confirm them.

[poetbear.livejournal.com]

all of the above, except that i don't
have a magic 8 ball.~paul

[zhenzhi.livejournal.com]

i had a feeling you would be accepted, and choose to accept.
congratulations on both!!!
*prayers coming your way every day* :-)

[ex-muzer409.livejournal.com]

Just saying "I'm still here!" (Don't get to check LJ much right now, but try to keep up with y'all!)

It sounds like you're content with your path right now, and that makes me happy!

[softletters.livejournal.com]

ee! congratulations. i think we all struggle with discernment. well most christians that is, if you arent a believer i guess theres no real need for it. i have long prayed for a continued discerning spirit. its such a wonderful gift if someone has it.

[saintgeorge.livejournal.com]

The Peace of God be upon you, my brother.