In the fall of 2000 I entered my undergraduate studies at Graceland University. I was listed with plethora of possible majors including Computer Science, History, and Psychology. I think I was even listed for one or two they no longer offered, and some I had no idea where they came from. By the end of the year I was a religion major and psychology minor. I’m not sure when I made the decision, just that it was during my first semester. I don’t know what all the factors were either, I just knew it was what I needed to do. The following academic year I would have a series of personal experiences and encounters with other, self, and the Holy which would lead me to understand that as a part of my calling I needed to peruse formal theological and ministerial education.
I would graduate at the end of my third year, without knowing for sure what was next. In the fall of 2003, I found myself in the first of three Seminaries that I would attend. My experiences there were valuable, but it was not the place for me. I planned to finish out the year and transfer elsewhere. However do to various leadings and encounters the day after World Conference 2004 ended I would make the decision to withdraw. In the Fall of 2004 I found myself in Seattle Washington attending the School of Theology and Ministry at Seattle University. it was an amazing lace, and I loved it and had all intents on finishing my degree there. It was there that I would come to appreciate and develop a strong interest in Liturgical Theology, inspired in part by my advisor who’s area was within this field. It was here I would acknowledge various health issues, leading to a rest from my studies for almost a year and a half. At the end of which I had all intentions of returning. Including having my schedule planed out till degree completion. Then within a week of doing so found myself called to move to Ohio and go to the Methodist Theological School in Ohio. A school where I would encounter many wonderful people, have new and different experiences, and eventually get to that day of completion, though taking much longer than planed. Adding and then removing a second degree as part of the process. For the past 20 weeks I have served as a chaplain at the Cleveland Clinic, I write these words as I finish the final hours of that experience.
Today the board of trusties will confer degrees to the graduating class of 2009. This afternoon I have commencement practice, this evening baccalaureate, and tomorrow I will walk in academic regalia celebrating in ceremonial form the completion of this part of the journey and passage to… well whatever is next. Tomorrow I will receive an expensive piece of paper that may take the rest of my life to pay for. A piece of paper that reflect 6 years of life experiences, many wonderful people, reflection, discovery of self, deeper relationship with the Holy and with other, and preparation for that which is to come.
The future is filled with unknown and uncertainties, but also much excitement, joy, and possibility. I wait to hear of job possibilities. I ponder further education (exploring some this morn). Reflect on ways of sustaining myself while doing that ministry to which I am called to. I just hope I have faith to trust myself, to embrace and share my gifts, talents, and go forth with other in community to help form the blessed and long dreamed for, and to which we are called. Peaceful community we in Community of Christ call Zion, that is, was, and is yet to be. Dreaming of the day when diversity is truly honored and celebrated and we live in true, difficult, and loving peace, where the worth of all is truly recognized and embraced by all and the earth and all of creation is cared for.
I look forward to continuing this journey with you.
May we live the Peace of the Living Christ,
— Lyle II