My synod finally sent my papers to me. Included in the packet is a note from the assistant to the bishop who deals with candidacy, a pamphlet on the ELCA seminaries (see my sidebar for their links), two copies of my ministry checklist, the actual application with the essay topic, a book on discernment, and a few other things on the process. I’m thankful to have it, but I’m also starting to get nervous because this means that the candidacy process is finally starting. I have two interviews, an essay, an application, and psych testing to get through before I’ll know if I’m M.Div quality material.

Pastor Tom also left a message today and I called him back. It was comforting to hear his voice and he asked if all was going well with Jon’s internship. I replied that we were fine and that I was subbing as the church secretary this week, but still job hunting. He’s taking the paperwork to church council tonight and I have a feeling he needs to know what is up with my seminary decision (i.e. Luther or Trinity) and I feel bad that I can’t give it to him.

Pray for me because I’m feeling pretty overwhelmed by the process.

One nice thing: “Where He Leads Me” by Twila Paris came on randomly as I was starting this entry.

There’s a great broad road through the meadow/ And many travel there/ But I have a gentle shepherd/I would follow anywhere/ Up a narrow path through the mountains/ To the valley far below/ To be ever in His presence/ Where He leads me I will go/ Where He leads me I will go/ There are many wondrous voices/ Day and night they fill the air/ There is one so small and quiet/ I would know it anywhere/ In the city or in the wilderness/ There’s a ringing crystal clear/ To be ever close beside Him/ When He calls me I will hear/ When He calls me I will hear/ There is a great broad road to nowhere/ And so many travel there/ But I have a gentle shepherd/I would follow anywhere/ Though the journey takes me far away/ From the place I call my home/ To be ever in His presence/ Where He leads me I will go/Where He leads me I will go/ Where He leads me I will go.

Gee Lord… are you trying to tell me something?