I haven't posted here for some time, so perhaps a brief update is deserved. I have continued on the journey, working as directed by the DDO and both he and I can sense progress in terms of growth as a Christian and an expansion of my engagement with wider issues which effect the church today.
I had my 11th meeting with the DDO on Monday. The meeting was positive and went very well indeed. We seem to be at the stage of engaging much more on deeper beliefs and understanding, particularly on areas which impact on the nine criteria for Ordained ministry.
I have produced the written work requested as well as some additional reflections on things, which might have been to much, but which drew the wry comment that future meetings would need one hour for the face to face and another two hours to read the output. Very tongue in cheek.
I found myself sharing stuff, which I had thought about and reflected on. I also asked some questions about areas which I wanted more information on, particularly other roles for NSM within the diocese - not just assistant priest in a parish. I got the answer that I expected - that given my age, those roles were very restricted, but we could explore them post-curacy (if I get that far).
An observation from the DDO which pleased me was that he could see some real development and expansion from my engaging with topics about the wider church, its problems and issues and had taken the time to reflect on them. He said that some of this could be attributed to my engagement with the internet and other Christian Blogger's. It will prove useful when answering questions, if I go forward for the Diocesan Panel and National Selection.
I have been given a copy of the Bishops report on Human Sexuality, which I need to read and provide a written reflection on for next month. I have also received a copy of the full report prepared for the Anglican Communion, which might prove to be of help in this reflection.
So another step in the process, which I am now, really enjoying - this thing that comes to mind is that whatever the outcome, this has been a worthwhile journey of growth, of maturing as a Christian and an inspiration to share so much with an excellent priest, who is mentoring me in preparation to face the Diocesan Panel.
I say it a lot, But God is Really, Really, Great! :votive1:
It sounds as if you're receiving a really thorough preparation and being encouraged to do a lot of work by your DDO.I'm sure none of it will be wasted, whatever the outcome of the further selection processes. Just one point about NSM roles - after curate-in-training role an NSM is an "Associate" not an "Assistant" priest. I'm an Associate Priest licensed to a Deanery, but also a Vocations Adviser. I'm aware of other NSMs who are Area Deans, Assistant DDO, prison and hospital chaplains and other roles. Theoretical an NSM could be a bishop, but that hasn't happened yet!
ReplyDeleteglad to hear it is going well :) I'm still only at my 3rd meeting, so right at the beginning, feels like a long way to go...
ReplyDeleteevery blessing
redx
Nancy, I used the term Assistant Priest as that was the term that the DDO used to describe the role I might expect to fill post curacy.
ReplyDeleteI am aware of the terminology of Associate Priest, but wasn't sure whether all dioceses used it - perhaps you could advise me on that?
But thanks for your comments, I value all feedback I receive here.
Red,
ReplyDeleteI would say allow the process to take its time. I was in a hurry at the start, but patently was not really ready.
I thank God that the DDO put me under pressure and made me take a couple of steps back and to reflect on whether I was working hard enough. I patently wasn't and I did something about it.
In the end, the journey is just so worthwhile that whatever the outcome it enhances so much and will prepare you to face anything coming your way.