Ordination Day

Ordination day
On Saturday 10/18/2015, Doug was officially ordained into the Ministry of word and Sacrament, within the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church of America), At First English Lutheran Church, Platteville WI. He worked long and hard for that day, and when it finally came, it was over in the blink of an eye. This ordination felt so much like a wedding. From the prep to the celebration, it was a long day.
We left the night before and stayed the night with a friend of ours in the town. I am not one to rise early, unless it’s for work; so it was better this way. If we had waited until Saturday, it would have been a get up and get out the door by 4:00 am or sooner. Yea so not happening, unless we are talking Mall of America, than ok just pump me up with coffee/Coke and I’m on my way. I know Priorities right?
Anyway, there wasn’t much planning on my end, but Doug had a lot. The people of First English were so good to us, we wanted to give back in a small way, and the ordination seemed perfect. We had also learned that although they are internship site, they have never had an ordination. Many people will go back to their home church for ordination, but that was not an option for us. That’s how we ended up at our internship site
If you have never attended an ordination, I would highly recommend it. The service it’s self is very moving. Each Synod has their own way of doing things, and this was not my first Ordination. I have been to several over the seminary journey. Only two however really spoke to me.
When I attended an ordination over the summer, the Bishop did her sermon on Jacobs’s hip. Boy that really hit home for me. In Jacob’s story he wrestle’s a lot with God and the plans God has for him. I too, wrestle with God a lot. I fight everything instead of just having faith. I’m human and I like to control things and outcomes.
The second was Doug’s. I hear what you’re thinking. Yes Doug’s and not because I’m married to him. This was different. It started with some special music that was changed at the last minute, but was most perfect for this day. The sermon too showed me someone else’s perspective on who Doug is as a person and that this call is right for him. 
So begins the first call into the church. It is said that first calls can last anywhere from 3 years to retirement. Some never leave, while others move on when they feel they are no longer the best Sheppard for the church. What an interesting journey we are on. One I never predicated. Nor would I have guessed being a Chicago-land native to every move to Wisconsin. It was never on my radar when I ever I thought of moving. So onward and upward we go, where we stop nobody knows…
Matthew 11:28-30 The Voice (VOICE)
28 Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Put My yoke upon your shoulders—it might appear heavy at first, but it is perfectly fitted to your curves. Learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble of heart. When you are yoked to Me, your weary souls will find rest. 30 For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.