Here I Am Lord

Officially, I have been an interfaith minister for one week, today.  I am finding it surreal that, just seven days ago, I walked down the aisle of All Soul's Church in New York City, choking out the chorus of "Here I Am Lord." 

 Processing into Church

This past week, I have meditated on how I got to this point in my journey.  I remembered the discussions, as I child, with Sister Superior.  She had asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up.  I told her a priest.  She said girls can't become priests; however, I could become a bride of Jesus by going into the convent.  No Way!  I didn't want to be married to Jesus, I wanted to be one of his buddies. Clearly, I had a lot of problems when I voiced this to Sister.

Later in life, I continued to feel the calling to serve.  I looked at various programs, degrees, opportunities.  I did what I could, when I could but continued to feel that my calling was deeper.  

As the years moved by, I became more articulate with what I believed and why.  I knew, for instance, that we are all connected - all part of the great Cosmos.  I also knew that Love is what brings us together and what joins us, each to the other.

When I finally found The New Seminary of Interfaith Studies, I had almost given up the thought of becoming an ordained minister.  However, as I read their webpages, I realized that everything I had read, studied, discussed and written about had led me to this moment in time.

 Receiving a blessing

So, what has changed since last Saturday's ordination.  Only the title before my name.  Everything else is as it was - I am still a mother/grandmother, writer, teacher, poet, and minister to all who cross my path.

I would like to share the vows I wrote for my ordination.

They are:    
  • To hold Love as the greatest Truth  
  • To see the Divine in all creatures and all of creation
  • To recognize  that all individuals follow their own path to Truth and Light 
  • To respect the various differences and great diversity of my brothers and sisters 
  • To perform my duties as minister without prejudice, harm or judgement.
With the grace of Spirit, I know I will be able to do my best.

 Newly ordained - 
Reverend Linda and Roger


Namasté!


 

Comments

wenwolf said…
I / we are so proud of you and "blessed" to have you in our lives. You challenge me about my own beliefs / non-beliefs which I appreciate, profoundly. Your vows are perfect.

Danke for everything.
Dearest Wen and Kirsten,

Love you both...Danke to you both for being in my life! Can't wait for next May!!
Unknown said…
Congratulations-- from reading your blog I know you'll be a blessing in many lives.
This is a beautiful moment for you and all of us who share in your life.
The story of the wish to be a priest touched me deeply as well. Women were the original priestesses and we are coming full circle with the ordination of women to serve the community in sacred ways.
A applaud your journey and wish you light on your journey.
Thank you dear Julie and Isabella for your kind words and support.

Blessings, always!

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