conjectural navel gazing; jesus in lint form

that's reverend anglobaptist to you

Unreal...

Incredible...

Fantastic...

There are so many words and there are no words. I am honored and touched deeply by the expresssions of love and encouragement from all who were able to attend last night and those who could not but sent their love nonetheless.

Thanks to my mother, my step-mother and Trish's parents. Thank you to all the North Shore people who participated in the servcie and to those who fed us all afterward. Doug and Carol prayed and led me through vow after vow. Omar and Evelyn were present. Omar actually came forward at the laying on of hands. This was a generous gift...a great gift.

Seabury-ites were present, some in the congregation, some in the choir. Ruth Meyers prayed. Sometimes that is all a thesis advisor can do. Friends and colleagues from here at the hospital were present. Nothing like a nun from Tanzania to make certain that everything is on the up and up. There were Catholic, Anglican, Presbyterian, UCC and other traditions present. The laying on of hands was the most tremendous moment. The ordained came forward. All sang "veni sancte spiritus." The congregations extended their hands in accord with those whom have also been called to follow the way of Jesus Christ through ordained ministry. The congregation ordained me. The clergy touched me. And then there was Nicholas. His grandfather is a minister who came forward for the laying on of hands. Nicholas is three. He would not be left out. I was oblivious, but his small hand reached out with the others to call forth the Spirit. His grandfather lifted him up. Nicholas blessed me.

I was blessed with two bibles...one Oxford Annotated NRSV and one KJV (from a Filipino family who wanted me to have a real bible), a communion set and the most beautifu red, gold and purple stole ever.

And then there were bloggers...

Trevor preached. My did he preach. He brought Stanle Hauerwas into the congregation. I hope Stanley does not mind. I certainly enjoyed the challenging voice of His Theological Crankiness. Excellent preaching, brother Mennonite. Thank you.
Susie, Luke, Justin, Si and Jane Ellen sang.
Wes, Sarah, Laura, Micah (who also read the gospel) Jennifer, Dave, Kate and Larry sat in the congregation.
AKMA, yes, He Himself, was present. He was a gentleman, a scholar and a spinner of yarns. After he left, my in-laws spoke of him in only the most flattering of terms. "He was your professor in seminary? He was a lot of fun."

Being asked to bless a friend after the service as s show of sincerity and respect to vocation and difference moved me more than I can express.

There were many blessings last night. And the blessings have only begun.

Thank you all.

When there is a sermon to post, I will do so. When there are pictures to post, rest assured they will be here.

Pax et bonum.

Posted by tripp at November 8, 2004 11:41 AM