Being Ordained...

I haven't been very diligent with posting lately, so thanks for hanging in there bloggy friends : ) Well, David was ordained a pastor this weekend! Being ordained after 15 years of ministry is different than most ordinations since most pastors go through this process after Bible college/Seminary. But Dave was never officially ordained at that point in his life, so our church elders and pastors pursued ordaining him. Dave went through a very thorough process and was affirmed in his calling to youth ministry on Saturday. And Sunday night, the church held a BEAUTIFUL service that left both of us inspired, challenged and renewed in our passion for God and His Church. It probably held deeper meaning for us at this stage in our life than it would have for David right out of college.... the trials, challenges, joys and sorrows of loving God's Bride, we already know them and yet still love His Church and want to serve God and His people as long as He wants us in this position. We were overwhelmed by how many came to share this special evening with us and by the wonderful reception afterwards. A HUGE thank you to all who made that night so meaningful!

A few of the kids went out to Carl's afterwards for some ice cream with us : )

It's a terrible picture, but here's a look at the scrapbook I put together of letters written by many of Dave's past and present youth group kids and sponsors. Thanks to Facebook, I was able to reconnect with quite a few people from over the years!! Dave enjoyed these letters IMMENSELY!! They are more affirmation to him than about anything else of God's faithfulness in His ministry. So THANK YOU to all who took time to be part of this!!

Overall, we had a fantastic weekend! To God be ALL the glory!