The Consecrated Life

Called to the Priesthood

My calling to the Priesthood was an exercise in God’s tendency to speak in the still small voice and work in quiet unseen ways.  There was no one moment when I first heard the call or when I first answered it.  Bit by bit, through out my childhood the seeds were planted.  A Sunday School teacher suggested I consider the Ministry.  The Pastor commented on a growing interest in theology during catechism class.  My Grandfather engaging me in conversation about Christ and the Church.  I suppose the closest thing I had to a “Damascus Road” was mid way through my time in High School.  I thought I was destined to be an architect (I had always loved old buildings) but when I began to take drafting and some of the math needed for the subject, it didn’t ring true.  The growing reality that this was not what I was “made to do” left me confused and even a bit dismayed.  It was in the midst of this worrying time that someone (I don’t even remember who) asked me again if I had considered the Ministry.  For the first time it fit, it sounded right.  Though I didn’t know it at the time, the still small voice of God had called again and what could I do but answer?  “Here am I, send me!”  It has been a long journey, and not always easy, but I can look back and see his guiding hand sustaining and supporting me, and in fact teaching me and pushing me to grow the whole way long.  For some God speaks in the fire, earthquake, or wind but I’m living proof that he doesn’t always, and that some are called by God in small ways that add up to big things.  Listen closely and head the call. 

The Secret of Church Planting

It’s simple. Just walk through the doors that are opened for you. There are only three doors.

I first learned about the three spaces for evangelism from Deacon John Sundara. He advised me on how we can reach the large and growing Indian population in Plano. I had questions about the people. What do they fear, love, and want? And most importantly, what do they need and how can Resurrection Episcopal Church meet those needs? But reaching anyone with Good News is about opening doors.

In forming relationships there are three spaces that become more intimate as you walk through each door. In Space 1, we have passing surface conversations, like the ones I have with a familiar bank teller or someone in the checkout line. In Space 2 there is an opportunity to build relationship and the conversations can be longer. If I offer a class at a Recreation Center and see the same families every week, I become a familiar person with an opportunity for us to share what’s happening in life. We can talk about work, family, or even share prayer requests. In Space 3 we share at heart level, which is really where anyone would talk about their relationship with God. When I’ve walked through the first two doors and then someone asks me to coffee or we sit down for a meal together, then we’re at the level of relationship where we can really form a lasting connection.

Church planters create opportunities for connection. Resurrection Plano recently hosted a Family Fun day at a local park (Space 1). We’ve scheduled recurring “Pray-Ground” experiences for families through a local mom’s organization (Space 2). And I let it be known to all our groups that I’m always available to meet (Space 3).  But it isn’t just for the priest to do. Any member should see and walk through the three doors.

It’s Simple. Now you try it! What three spaces can you create to meet new people and open doors?