Thoughts upon Ordination

Ordination is not a solo journey.  Although hands are laid on just one person, it is truly a community event. I was humbled and so appreciative to all who could participate as part of the celebrating, ordaining community. 

Our God is a God who calls and who sends.  Of course this involves individuals, but it just as much includes communities.  So while you celebrate me being called and sent, I likewise celebrate us as the called, sent people of God.  We are all in this together.

In this journey I have so many people to thank, many of whom were present for the March 31st service.  This includes the family from which I derive my Christian heritage; the staff, leadership and people of Chartwell Baptist Church, which for so many years helped me to discern and learn to use my gifts; the many Pastors and leaders here in Classis Toronto, for helping me navigate this process which was so new to me; the pastors of the Etobicoke Central Ministerial, who have helped me so much in getting working in this neighbourhood; the good people of Fellowship CRC, for taking us in and allowing us to be a part of their tribe; Fellowship’s church Council, for encouraging me to pursue ordination; and most of all my dear wife Sandy, my greatest cheerleader and encourager. 

There is a hymn I learned as a child which reads,

Jesus calls us, o’er the tumult of our life’s wild, restless sea;
Day by day His sweet voice soundeth, saying “Christian, follow me.”

I love the dichotomy of Jesus’ “sweet” invitation drowning out the roar of the waves.  We are followers of Jesus, first and foremost.  This is our highest and humblest calling.  From there we are called and sent.  Thus we go forward, even in the inevitable storm.

Thank you, one and all, for your trust, love and support. And thank you Jesus, who says of us followers, “Father, as You sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world.” Let’s go!