on getting credentials...

A couple of weeks ago, my PH was ordained. In our church, that means he has proven himself during several years of ministry since his graduation from Seminary, and is now fully credentialed in our denomination for service anywhere in the world.

It was a special event. A milestone in his ministry. Bigger than his graduation from college or university. More than 175 friends, family members, old classmates, colleagues, mentors and church members gathered from across the country and overseas to celebrate with us. It was kind of like a wedding actually, and I'll admit I had no idea what I was getting into when the plans got started. I hadn't attended any similar ceremony for other pastors before, so I was clueless.

Before it was done, I was involved with planning a reception supper, decorations, centerpieces, special musical numbers, rides from the airport... You get the idea.

But it was beautiful. He cried during the blessing service. I cried watching him cry. His mentors showed up to walk him down the aisle and to pray over us as partners in ministry.

The congregation stretched their hands forward to join in the blessing.

The mentors and church leaders who spoke made a special point to include me in the blessing and consecration. They reminded us that while my hubby is "the Pastor", our lives are knit together and we both serve equally - if differently.

It was unforgettable. Sobering. Joyous. And a little intimidating, too. I was reminded of something that often gets lost in the minutiae of everyday routine - being a PW is big stuff.

We have the privilege and obligation of sharing life with men who's calling is to serve people. Who, by the nature of their existence are constantly touching people's lives in ways we may never fully know in this lifetime.

Pretty humbling notion.

What about you? What does your church/denomination do to recognize and credential pastors? Are you involved in the ceremony? If your husband has already experienced a similar ceremony, what was your favorite part? If not, what are you looking forward to about it?

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