Update

I thought I would take a minute or two and update everyone on where the process towards ordination stands as of today since it started in the middle of January.

The application process started with an application to the ELCA (for me it's the IK Snynod). When they received the application they imediately sent a packet to my home church (Hopeful Lutheran in Florence KY) and they confirmed and sponsored my application (thanks council!). I then also had to fill out paperwork for a background check and additional paper work to be sent to the company that does my psychological analysis . I then took psych tests that took about 4 hours to complete. Today I met, face to face, with a psychologist to discuss the results of the tests (which was favorable) as well getting the chance for them to meet with me.

During all of this time the search for a seminary began. After visiting Wartburg in Dubuque IA, Trinity in Columbus OH and LTSS (Southern) in Columbia SC I decided on applying to Southern (again more paperwork). I received my acceptance letter from them earlier this week. Although I have been accepted it is only provisional. I cannot study under the MDiv program without a confirmation from the ELCA.

So the only remaining step in the application process is the formal interview with the IK Synod. That will take place at the end of this month (April). I will learn, at that interview, the decision which will allow me to begin my studies towards ordination.

I would like to thank all of you who have supported me up to this point through your prayer and kind words and for some of you filling out paperwork and referals. It is comforting to know that there are that many people who are willing to stand behind me in this process.

In His name,

Greg