Ordination

The ordination today of Samuel Beltz in Oskaloosa was absolutely beautiful.

A few of the highlights:
-Holy Communion
-Pr Joel Picard's sermon based upon St John the Baptist's saying: "I must decrease that He [Jesus] might increase".  It was fabulous...and a good reminder!
-about 15 pastors present, including Pr Beltz's father AND grandfather (both are pastors)
-the beautiful chancel area at St John, Oskaloosa
-Pr Beltz's beautiful stole and chasuble (although, I admit that I am biased on this because he has the same set we have at St John's)
-Pr Beltz's wonderful voice as he chanted the Service of the Sacrament
-and, of course, the ordaining of Pr Beltz.

The verse I used in the laying on of hands is one that won't be such a surprise: Colossians 3.16 'Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly' 

One last reflection: It's great to see a man come out of the St Louis seminary who is so well versed and comfortable in the historic liturgy.  I'm looking forward to meeting with him regularly in our Tuesday Greek study in Grinnell.  He'll be a great asset to the group and a fine pastor to the people of Oskaloosa.  (OK, so maybe that was 2 last reflections)

The Lord almighty grant us a quiet night and Peace at the last.