I am in agreement with my mentors and seminary professors who have affirmed that my primary area of spiritual giftedness is encouragement, wise counsel, and empathy. My psychological assessment also reveals that. Secondary gifts include administration, which comprise organization of people and resources, teaching, and leadership. I believe that these gifts will assist me in my future ministry as an elder in the UMC.
My motivation for ministry is Christ’s Great Commission. I have a deep longing to disciple and shepherd a flock of Christ’s followers by preaching the word of God and administering the sacraments. I am called to empower and equip the laity to identify, mature and lead from their own spiritual giftedness. I believe that clergy and laity must work together to build up the body of Christ for the transformation of both the world around them and abroad. I seek to nurture others’ souls through pastoral care and by providing Christian spiritual and moral guidance to those I serve and to the surrounding community.
My Present Understanding of My Call to Ministry and an understanding of Elder, Deacon and Licensed Ministry:
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They are also called to understand the needs, joys and concerns of world. This is implemented through study of scripture, and proclamation of the gospel. An ordained deacon seeks guidance of the Holy Spirit and, ministers to all with a passion and commitment to serve all, following the example of Jesus Christ. Elders are called to preach and teach the word of God. They are called to provide pastoral care as well as counsel. Also, they are called to govern the sacraments of baptism and Holy Communion. I am called to be an elder. I believe that I am called to be an Elder to be a life time servant leader to preach, teach and administer the sacraments. However, a local licensed pastor is one who performs the duties that a pastor would but is not