Connexional Committee

The Connexional (National) Committee is the final stage in the assessment of my calling to the ministry. This takes place next week near St Albans. All my colleagues and me are preparing our 5 minute presentations, and reflecting on the latest news.
It will be quite an atmosphere with all the tension of the candidates. I just hope and pray that I will continue to be me, and if it is God's call then I will start the next phase of my Christian service. I don't feel nervous now - but that is normal for me. I will be nervous during the process, and God doing his best to get the grey cells to listen and remember.
The process is very exciting, yet at the same time very wearing - I can see why people remember this year whether successful or not.

District Committee update

The District Committee agreed unanimously to support my candidating. The day was good and I was supported tremendously by my Minister and the District Candidate Secretary. The group were thorough, but very gracious, and it was nice to meet a couple of old friends as well.
I now have the Connexional (National) Committee to look forward to at the end of April.
God is Good

District Committee

We had a useful session with our colleagues from York St John this week. The numbers have dwindled from their group but there are 7 of us going forward. The session helped to challenge us across the different areas of compentency the church is looking to establish. What was very encouraging was that everyone had a very positive experience and this helped to build up confidence. It was good to have the different dynamic of the York group with us.
Tomorrow sees the District day for most of us - I am the only one for the Leeds district and will have to answer questions in 3 sessions during the morning. I am accompanied by Andrew, my minister, who has been very supportive. I am just going to be me - and hope that I can focus on
my story - and where is God in it! It is so easy to go off track.

Circuit support

The Circuit Meeting was very positive. They voted unanimously to support me. It was very affirming and humbling - a great evening for me. Thank you so much God for all the ways in which you show your love and care.

Hectic week

The pace hots up this week as I have the Circuit Meeting tonight. I am going to reflect on how my call has developed during my time on Foundation Training. I have also been frantically finishing off and submitting my last assignment.
The retreat really helped again. I was able to think about Blind Bartimaeus and how the words "What do you want me to do for you" kept repeating.
A very positive experience and demonstrates the value of regular retreats.
After all the excitment we are having a few days away from it all next week on the Red Sea. I'll be looking forward to the rest!!