All Saints Ordination

I have been thinking a bit about last Sunday’s synod-wide ordination celebration. We typically have the ordination service on Reformation Sunday, but Bishop Wollesheim’s schedule did not permit that this year. So, we gathered a week later on All Saints Sunday to ordain three new pastors, Carrie Smith, Terrie Wilder and Sarah Wilson. Bill Bartlett was also installed as vice-president of the Northern Illinois Synod.

In the synod office, in the days leading up to the services, we wondered aloud about the possible attendance. Would people stay away for fear of the flu? What would we do if the bishop were sick? How many bulletins should we print? How much communion bread will we need? How many pews should we save for rostered leaders?

As it was, attendance was very good. There were many representatives of the ordinands’ congregations. We had printed an ample number of bulletins, we had a good supply of bread, and we almost saved enough space for rostered leaders. Best of all, no one was sick.

As I listened to the new pastors make their vows to God and the church, I could not help but think about what an interesting and critical time it is to enter ordained ministry. The church is in need of courageous leadership in these days. The church also needs leaders who recognize the great diversity within their own congregations.

In recent weeks, Bishop Wollersheim and his staff have traveled around the synod for conference meetings, Mission Gatherings and Coffees with the Bishop. The bishop has discussed and we have experienced the diversity of the synod in each of these settings. Sometimes leaders fail to recognize that the same diversity exists within each congregation. Individually we differ in so many ways, not just in how we think about human sexuality. There are those who feel marginalized in their own church homes because of their minority views.

My personal prayer list is as long right now as it has ever been. I have added three new pastors this week. I am praying that God will bless their congregations and communities through their work and that they will prove to be faithful witnesses to the gospel.

Comments? Go to http://niselca.blogspot.com/. --JC