It is odd. I think I should feel more, but I don't. I guess it is because having my calling recognized, didn't change me or who I am or what I do. It just affirmed it.
First of all, I'm so glad I chose to celebrate 30 years in ministry. It is a milestone and it is worth celebrating. It has been bittersweet: I'm so glad I celebrated 30 years and so sorry I didn't celebrate 20 or 25 years of ministry or 14 years of Pizza@Lunch or 20 years as a chaplain with juvenile delinquents – why didn't I celebrate all that? I don't want to miss another chance of celebrating anything that God is letting me a part of Him doing!
Second of all, Linda and Jim Petter and their worship team from Real Life Ministries were wonderful! They must have brought 10 people with them. I felt so blessed by their encouragement and support! Thank you so much for being such a wonderful part of my day! Pastor Mike Hogg's prayer for me after their first song moved me to tears.
The reception afterwards was wonderful as well. Vicki Frame and her daughter, Heather did a wonderful job. The place looked beautiful. I think the Cross in the City staff saw great potential in that room after what Vicki did to it.
My husband, Dean was thrilled and I think my parents think I have finally done something with myself!
Dean is having a great time, introducing me as his wife, the Reverend Dottie Cooper Hinesley.
The thing that has struck me over and over again is that I can see how being ordained – having my calling recognized and celebrated would have meant the world to me in my 20's and 30's. In my 50's, it tends to feel like it was an oversight, something I should have taken care of several years ago.
I guess, I'm glad I've finally taken care of this!
Thank you for celebrating my calling and 30 years of ministry with me!
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