Tonight's the Night!
Yes, tonight is that night that many have been waiting for since they heard that quiet voice or felt the tap on their shoulder. Or maybe for some it came as a sharp blow to the chest. No matter the method, God calls – and let us have ears to listen. Tonight comes as a night of affirmation for the 9 who will be ordained, and the 12 who will be commissioned as provisional elders.
It has been a long journey of discernment and education, one that began in many different places. We have all traveled distinct roads to reach this point in our lives – a road carved out by God's grace and paved by the Holy Spirit. We owe a great debt to those who have journeyed with us; family and friends who have eased our way – encouraging us, comforting us, celebrating with us.
Amid tonight's smiles, laughter and shouts of hallelujah will be some tears of joy. Joy and gratitude for what God has done, is doing and will do in our lives.
After tonight, you can call me Rev. Thanks be to God.
Shalom,
Joanne Utley