jasona

I did it because I thought it was interesting. The more and more I thought about it, the more I realized it was a calling that was deeply personal. I guess you could say that I was 'joking around' or 'curious' about the whole process. But, I have transcended all of this. I have a new found purpose and it lights a flame inside of me. I don't pretend to be all knowing, all percieving of God's works. I do, however, see myself as a new type of vessel to unite others who love one another. I've been to lots and lots of weddings. One thing I've always noticed was how people say to the bride and groom, "this is your day." However, most ministers seem to take an awful lot of time to preach to the people gathered together. Perhaps that is their calling. But in my ministry, I want to make the focus of any wedding, funeral or baptism to be on the relationship of those involved. Instead of simply officiating an event, I want to be able to take a personal part in it and make it a piece of me by ensuring that the event is beautifully reflective of those who have sought my guidance. I recognize that most ministers, JOPs, priests, etc rarely have a personal stake in the marriage they are performing. I want to be different. I want the words, the sounds, the sights and the meaning to be personal and touching rather than be canned and ritualistic. I believe our lives are covenents among and between all with whom we are surrounded. I haven't done any weddings yet. But, I did design one with a couple and worked hard to really make it all about them. Even the staging was designed to highlight these beautiful people and the love they share for one another. Unfortunately, some financial and family issues arose and they will be getting married in another state. So, I'll keep my eyes and heart open to other opportunities to serve in a way that other 'traditional' ministers fail. God's blessings! Rev. J