Currently Reading Take This Bread: A Radical Conversion By Sara Miles see related

I'll officially be entering the discernment process for ordination to the presbyterate (priesthood) or permanent diaconate (order of deacons) in the Diocese of Chicago after the New Year.  This is a big decision, one that's been almost two years in the making, and one that's been made through a lot of prayer and with Sarah's support.  I'll fill you all in on the details as I learn them, but would appreciate your thoughts and prayers as I prepare.  The answer to the question, "deacon or priest?" may well be "neither", but those answers will come through a process of speaking, praying, and interacting with my church community, both on the parish and diocesan levels.  I hope that wherever this journey ends, either with a bishop placing hands on my head or with a trusted mentor saying, "we believe your unique call to ministry is best expressed as a member of the laity", I will learn and grow and become a better husband, father, and friend because of its lessons.

Almighty God, who has gifted all your people for ministry whether lay or clergy, I humbly ask for your voice to speak clearly through the people of Grace Church and the Diocese of Chicago, as it has and continues to speak through family and friends.  Help me to be quick to listen and slow to speak, help me to develop a rule of life consistent with my calling.  In all things, remind me yet again that I can indeed do all things through Christ who strengthens me; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.  Amen.