Rite of Candidacy

Yesterday evening I celebrated a major milestone on my Vocational journey, when I celebrated the Rite of Candidacy. As one prepares to become a deacon, we are asked to take part in a ceremony called the Rite of Candidacy. Being admitted to the Rite of Candidacy, according to the Church, " offers the candidates for ordination the opportunity to publicly express their intention to receive ordination as a Deacon and...later as a Priest."

Last night I did just that when a small gathering of clergy, friends and family gathered at Transfiguration parish. We prayed evening prayer together before I was asked to stand and respond to the following statements:

The bishop rose sand offered these words:
My child, the pastors and teachers in charge of your formation, and others who know you, have given a favorable account of you, and we have fill confidence in their testimony.

In response to the Lord's call, are you resolved to complete your preparation so that in due time you will be ready to be ordained for the ministry of the Church?

(My Response) I am

Bishop:
Are you resolved to prepare yourself (yourselves) in mind, heart, and spirit to give faithful and compassionate service to Christ the Lord and his body, the Church?

My Response:
I am.

ACCEPTANCE OF THE CANDIDATE:

Bishop:
The Church receives your declaration with joy. May God who has begun the good work in you bring it to fulfillment.
All:
AMEN.

Following the conclusion of prayer we gathered at the parish hall for some wonderful refreshments prepared by the parish community. It is hard to believe that I have been in formation three years and am starting my fourth. It is crazy how fast time flies by and how the Holy Spirit works.