I have had a number of questions about the timetable for my ordination process. So here it is in short. I passed all my ords. That was a big step. Two weeks ago, I met with the subcommittee for my CPM (Committee for the Preparation of Ministry). The subcommittee agreed that I was ready to go before the whole CPM. The meeting with the whole CPM is scheduled for next Monday. If they say that I am ready for ordination, then I will go before Presbytery (the larger governing body) for its first meeting of 2006 in February. They will ask me some questions at Presbytery and vote. If the vote is favorable, then I am ready to accept a call. Since my call will be to Seabury, I can set my ordination date for sometime in the spring. The ordination service itself would likely take place at our sponsoring parish, First Presbyterian Church of Wilmette since Seabury’s chapel would not be able to accommodate very many guests from outside the Seabury community. Of course, there are always things that could go wrong. This timetable is presupposing an ideal outcome at all stages; but if all goes well, I will be ordained early in 2006.
I give thanks for 15 years of marriage to Michelle. She is my best friend. I am not ashamed to say that I would be lost without her. I need her more now than ever. I love her, and I thank God for her love.
I just got home from AAR/SBL in Philadelphia. The meeting was exhausting, full, and all of the other things that I’ve come to expect from AAR/SBL. My paper went well. I’m hoping to turn it into a book proposal. We’ll see.
I watched some of the American Music Awards last night. Yes, these awards are meaningless, but the AMAs usually have a good performance or two. Last night’s highlights included a two song set by the Stones, a rousing anthem of guitars and harmonies with Los Lonely Boys and Santana (the man is a guitar god), and a high-energy set by the Eurythmics. The high point for me was a stunning duet by Cyndi Lauper and Sarah McLachlan of Lauper’s 80’s hit, “Time After Time.” It was really very cool.
These rousing performances were contrasted with the two “young” pop stars Lindsay Lohan and Hilary Duff, who could hardly stay on key. In both cases, the professional backup singers saved these micro divas. Even with the vocal support they stunk. It reminded me that there are good singers, good performers, good song writers, and those who can do all of the above. Life in the biz must be hard when you go 0 for 3.
I just found out that I passed all of my ordination exams. Thank God!