Endorsed!
I posted Aug. 28th that I was heading for Nashville to interview for Ecclesiastical Endorsement. I was interviewed by a team of three peers – other clergy who, like myself, serve outside the local church setting. All three are also chaplains in a variety of settings.
The interview was a very affirming process. I was asked challenging, thought provoking questions regarding my ministry setting, my callnig, and my gifts for serving here. I enjoyed this experience because though challenging, the questions confirmed for me that I indeed am in a great place to serve God.
Which, in turn, reminds me of how incredible God is. Having known me all my life, I can assure you that I have not always been the person I need to be for this job. But I am now, thanks to God, and to many of you for the ways you have helped me grow.
I received official word yesterday that I have received Ecclesiastical Endorsement. Thank you for your prayers, your encouraging words, and for being a part of my story. Thanks Kyle and Jason for lodging story near the front of my mind.
So what’s Endorsement mean? Other than getting a better parking place?
It means the agency in which I serve can count on knowing that the United Methodist Church considers me appropriately trained for and capable of doing the ministry set before me. It also means that I can be counted on to do so as a representative of the UMC.