BEECHY (Qu’A) — My call to ministry has taken a wandering path, one that in retrospect is rather clear as God placed signposts along my journey.
The most pivotal of these markers was in 2017 as I was home to help my mother as she dealt with some medical conditions. This time brought me to grapple with God and seek more understanding both through spiritual guidance of my minister, at the local Presbyterian Church, and through intellectual engagement as I began my studies in biblical studies and theology through Tyndale University in Markham, Ont.
During this time, I worked full-time nights at a group home and attended to my studies throughout the week.
It was with the support of Rev. Peggy Kipfer and my Tyndale community that I first sensed a call to the ministry. Through the years to come, I found myself called to the Anglican Church and sought to transfer my support in studies from the Presbyterian Church to the Anglican Church, beginning in the Diocese of Huron.
In September 2022 I began my master of divinity at Huron University College in London, Ont., and was accepted into the postulancy program through the Diocese of Huron. The following summer I found myself called to serve in Swift Current as their summer student, and fell in love with the people and the area.
Through this experience I sought transfer from the Diocese of Huron to Qu’Appelle, a decision that continues to prove to fall strongly within my calling to rural church ministry.
Having attended both Huron and Tyndale Universities, I find myself in a position to appreciate two very distinct theological approaches. Tyndale represents a more conservative evangelical approach and Huron has a more liberal social justice angle.
This balanced background has prepared me to better serve the broad tent of theological positions in which we in the Anglican Communion find ourselves. I look forward to seeing where God calls me to push my understanding and encourage spiritual growth in those around me.
This past year as a deacon in the Church I have found to be both challenging and uplifting. While I have found many areas for learning and growth, the support of the clergy and congregations has been overwhelming, as I come to understand what it is to serve the Church and community in an official role.
From being blessed with the opportunity to celebrate Remembrance Day and the Beechy centennial with the community, to providing pastoral care as families grieve the loss of their loved ones. The privilege of being asked to share in these spaces of celebration and longing, to the very real moments that show the core of what it is to be human, has been incredibly humbling and provides a constant reminder of my need for God’s presence throughout all points of my ministry. I can’t wait to see where God continues to lead!
