It's a process through which you try to listen to God's message and find out what it is He wants you to do. Quakers "discern" in groups, both at formal Sunday meetings and informal groups.
In my case, a group of people, selected by the Rector and me, have been meeting to try to discern whether or not God really wants me to become a priest in the Episcopal Church. This parish committee is only the beginning; once they feel they have heard His word clearly, if they recommend me for postulancy, then the Diocese assigns a committee to pray with me and for me.
It has been an exciting process, and one I've waited for for many years. It's ironic that a former Rector refused to allow me to begin the process because of my age, and our new Rector is supporting me all the way. And I'm five years older than I was when I first approached the former.
Part of the process included my visiting a seminary near us (3 hours away). That was a wonderful experience. Whatever happens down the line, I will enjoy my three years of study on that lovely little campus. I will be able to go part time, if my work allows me to, for a semester, then next fall enroll full time. If God wants me, I will be a priest in 4 years...at 69!
6:28 AM
I have a few extra minutes this morning because it's raining and I'm not walking. Of course, I could do some housework, but, oh well.
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