For
those who may not know, for the past three years I have been a part time
student at Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary in Evanston, IL. I
am working on a Master of Divinity Degree with the hopes of one day being
ordained an Elder in the United Methodist Church. At this time I am a
Certified Candidate for ministry, which means I am on the path toward
ordination. Many people have been asking me how much longer I have in
school. I sometimes find it a depressing question, but I am making
progress on my journey toward ordained ministry. At this point I have
completed 60 of the 87 credits needed to complete my degree. This means
I need to take ten more classes. I have slowed down a bit and am taking
only two classes each semester, so I anticipate graduating in May of 2011.
This
church has been a wonderful source of encouragement and guidance on this
journey. I can not thank you enough for the love and support I
feel. Preaching and leading worship has become such a blessing and a joy
for me. I am so grateful for the opportunity to experience so many
aspects of ministry.
Of
course there are challenges and frustrations as with anything in life.
However, the blessings far outweigh the frustrations. Seeing the smiles
in the congregation as I carry a newly baptized child around the congregation,
or following our confirmation students as they discover their own faith
journey is something words can not express. From the bottom of my heart
I thank you for the support and blessings and your continued prayers as I
continue my ministry and studies.
God’s
Blessings!
Julie
