Greetings from Joan Erickson at GA Friday, July 9, 2010
Jesus is the head of the church. Yes, you already know this, but the commissioners of General Assembly brought that once again to our attention. Included in our study to prepare for presbytery’s consideration of amendments to our constitution is this amendment to raise standards for ordination not only to recognize the Lordship of Jesus, but it also offers the expectation that the church JOYFULLY submit to that Lordship. Wow – I know from the Vision Statement of the presbytery that joyfully responding to the call by the power of the Holy Spirit and the love of God through Jesus Christ is what we like. The proposed amendment wording is: “Standards for ordination service reflect the church’s desire to submit joyfully to the Lordship of Jesus Christ in all aspects of life (G-1.0000). The governing body responsible for ordination and / or installation (G-14.0240; G-14.0450) shall examine each candidate’s calling, gifts, preparation, and suitability for the responsibilities of office. The examination shall include, but not be limited to, a determination of the candidates’ ability and commitment to fulfill all requirements as expressed in the constitutional questions for ordination and installation (W-1.4003). Governing bodies shall be guided by Scripture and the confessions in applying standards to individual candidates.”
Your MUP commissioners, Julie Leverenz and Ron Roberts and YAAD (Young Adult Advisory Delegate) Jen Schildmeyer are steeped in prayer and discernment as they seek God’s guidance to fulfill their call to be part of the collective prophetic voice of our denomination.
Together in God’s Grace, Joan
