written for my ordination in August, 2016
From head… to heart… to hand…
As I understand it, the purpose of ministry is to meet, to listen, to encourage, to include…
I see life not as a clear division of dark and light, of perfection and flaw, but as a circular spectrum of colour, movement and sound. Life is a tapestry where each being is both unique and an integral part of a greater whole.
Each of us, whether aware of it or not, craves being understood, connection, acceptance and respect. We do not always know how to ask for help or where to find that which we truly need. We might think we are all alone or feel unable to trust another.
That is why I stand up and speak out with all my heart for and with the underdog, the vulnerable, the excluded and the oppressed, the sensitive, the rebel, the different and the weird…
I now live in Scotland, but I am much more a citizen of the world, a creature of this amazing planet we all share. As such, I’m happy to offer connection via virtual means or in ‘real’ time. Sometimes, simply knowing there is someone who will listen, just listen, can make a difference. This, I understand.
I don’t have all the answers. I’m still learning. I don’t offer unconditional love… because I am not a saint or perfect being. I offer instead, the best that I can, a listening ear, a helping hand and a compassionate heart.
The ministry of my heart, my calling, has grown from all that I have learned from life, including my own mistakes and the recognition of my human needs and frailties.
The ministry of my heart is grounded in a passion for interfaith dialogue and cooperation. It longs for multigenerational collaboration. It is two-spirited and generous, firmly rooted yet kind.
If I am to summarise all that ministry means to me and how it can change the world, I share here a haiku I wrote long ago, when I was first called:
In darkness and light,
welcoming each one alike,
a candle burns bright.
Image Source: Pixels Free Photos (Media Library)
1 comment
Beautiful ministry Linda and the haiku that called you too. I’m looking forward to being heard and seen be one another on this journey. What helps you feel connected? Less isolated? And how can we support you with that?