Conclusion of the Aspirancy Weekend

The Aspirancy Weekend concluded Saturday evening.  Those in attendance found it uplifting, tiring and spirit filled.  Those discerning a call to ministry shared their their call and life in Christ as we gathered at St. Thomas of Canterbury.   Aspirants represented St. Mary's in Albuquerque, Epiphany in Socorro, St. Thomas of Canterbury and Holy Spirit in Gallup.

The weekend began Friday evening with Evening Prayer, introductions and a conversation on the meaning of ministry.

We concluded with a traditional Greek Dinner of Spanakopita prepared by Canon Valantasis and a Greek Salad masterfully tossed and layered by Diane Butler.

Jean Kirby and Nancy Worthen

The Wonderful Dinner

Saturday Morning began with Morning Prayer and we progressed through 6 hours of interviews

Fr. Brian Taylor of the Commission on Ministry

Deacon Doug Blyle and Jennifer

Joe Alarid on the far left and Deacon Judith Jenkins

Early entry aspirant discussing the road to ordination

Janet Carlson discussing the life, role and journey of Clergy Spouses.  She gave an amazing presentation.

The Weekend concluded at 5 on Saturday with discussion and prayers for the Aspirants.

Many thanks to all who participated.

Aspirants:

Monica Whitaker, Athena Gassoumis, Jack Blenk, and Cynthia Caruso

Participants:

Bishop Michael Vono, Canon Richard Valantasis, Rev. Lin Lilley (Co-Chair of the COMB), Hon. Joe Alarid (Co-Chair of the COMB), Diane Butler, Jean Kirby, Rev. Brian Taylor, Rev. Canon Carole McGowen, Nancy Worthen, Rev. Deacon Judith Jenkins, and Dean Mark Goodman,