So, last night I told the Church Meeting I was leaving.
I’d spoken to the minister previously and he suggested that it might be something I’d like to tell the whole church about. In essence and to cut a long story short (with apologies for the dramatics) as part of exploring the idea of being ‘called to ordination’* it makes sense for me to be involved in a denomination that I’m better suited to than the Baptist Church. Yes, ladies and gentlemen, henceforth I am going to be:
an ANGLICAN!
This has been brewing for a while and was complicated by the fact that Heaton Baptist Church had been my home church for fifteen years or so and I’d settled there like dirt into a carpet. From the start of this year, I’ve been slowly withdrawing from all the bits and pieces here and there that I was involved in and, last night, spoke to the church briefly about what was happening and why I was leaving, and that I’d not be disappearing entirely – especially since Ros is only just getting settled in there. Then they prayed for me.
It was good.
I’m excited about the state of the church I’m leaving behind – and very much looking forward to getting more involved with the congregation at St Peter’s. It’s a big but necessary step and, whether or not I end up ordained, the right one to be taking now.
Any thoughts, prayers or comments would be welcomed.
*the feeling at the back of my head that I’ve not been able to shift that I believe God would like me to be involved in full time ministry.
Can I just that this feels, from my limited perspective, absolutely right! I won’t start calling you “Gerald” just yet
Thank you – on both counts, although I think I was starting out on the path before that whippersnapper was even committed to paper for the first time: it’s been a long time coming…
All the best people are Anglicans [fact not unsubstantiated and biased opinion].
Surely “Some of the best people…”
By which, all I mean is that the rest don’t realise it yet…
This is good news! Having read/watched at least part of your spiritual journey, I can’t think of anyone better to be moving toward a ‘calling of ministry’. As an ordained Baptist minister myself, who continues to be a seeker and has wandered all over the theological map, I pray that you will find guidance and answers as you consider ordination. Cheers and prayers from over the pond.
Thank you, Ahud!
It would be cool to talk to you some time about how you experienced ‘the call’ and what the process was like for you.
Prayers and cheers and general encouragement are all very welcome!
RIght, bed time!