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Ordination Paper Submitted – Update #10 (#2066)

2023/07/06 By Greg

I’m in the process of seeking ordination in the United Church of Christ. This is my 10th update about that journey.

Submitted

Today, I submitted my ordination paper. It is a twenty-five page document that is divided into three sections:

  • theology,
  • history and polity of the United Church of Christ, and
  • and my calling to and ministry in the United Church of Christ.
Screenshot of Ordination Paper Cover Page with Green Submitted Stamp and Border

So What?

In nine prior updates I’ve shared lists of what I’ve been asked to do as a Member in Discernment (UCC-speak for the process leading up to ordination) alongside updates on my progress. With the submission of this ordination paper I’ve now checked everything off of my “to do” list!

Next, I’ll meet with the North Texas Association Committee on Ministry. If I receive their blessing, then I’ll proceed to an Ecclesiastical Council as part of the Fall Meeting of the North Texas Association on October 14, 2023. Then, given my current ministry at White Rock Center of Hope, the final step would be ordination with the blessing of my current ministry through what the UCC calls a four-way covenant (a covenant between my local church, Cathedral of Hope United Church of Christ; my call, White Rock Center of Hope, my association, North Texas Association, and myself).

Bonus

Curious about my theology, the UCC, and/or my future? I’ll share excerpts from my ordination paper in future posts.

For more on my experience of seeking ordination in the United Church of Christ, check out

  • Midlife & MiD Life: A 9th Update (June 2023)
  • Seeking Ordination – Update #8 (May 2023)
  • Preaching Abundant Life (April 2023) [a related post not counted in the series]
  • Seeking Ordination – Update #7 (April 2023)
  • Officially a Member in Discernment (March 2023)
  • Week by Week, Step by Step (March 2023)
  • Back in the Pulpit Again! (March 2023)
  • Pilgrimage: Sharing my Story (March 2023)
  • Update: My United Church of Christ Ministry Discernment Journey (February 2023)
  • A Story of Stoles: Discerning What Next (January 2023)

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Greg Smith

Greg is a follower of the Way of Jesus who strives to make the world a better place for all people. Currently, he serves as Chief Executive Officer of White Rock Center of Hope and as Interim Senior Pastor of Advent Lutheran Church. He has served ten congregations, taught religion to undergraduates for eight years, and helped three organizations provide quality healthcare to underserved populations. (Read More)

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