My Journey with the ELCA
My journey with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) began as a significant chapter in my personal and vocational calling. Coming from a background rooted in Pentecostalism, Messianic Judaism, I encountered the ELCA while studying at Luther Seminary. What initially drew me to the church was its theology, particularly its emphasis on grace, faith, and Christ alone, as well as its strong commitment to social justice, inclusivity, and service to the world.
The Shift to ELCA Candidacy
I began my studies at Luther Seminary in 2022 with an initial focus on a Master of Arts in Theology, concentrating on Leadership and Innovation for Ministry. During my first year, I encountered the rich theological depth of the ELCA and its focus on addressing the complex social and cultural issues facing the world today. As I grew in my understanding of the church’s mission and values, it became clear that my passion for peacebuilding, conflict management, and ministry aligned closely with the vocation of pastoral leadership within the ELCA.
Recognizing this connection, I felt a strong sense of call to become a pastor in the ELCA and decided to enter the candidacy process. This decision also prompted a shift in my academic focus, leading me to transition from the MA program to the Master of Divinity (M.Div.) program, which would better prepare me for ordained ministry.
Recognizing this connection, I felt a strong sense of call to become a pastor in the ELCA and decided to enter the candidacy process. This decision also prompted a shift in my academic focus, leading me to transition from the MA program to the Master of Divinity (M.Div.) program, which would better prepare me for ordained ministry.
Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE)
A significant milestone in my candidacy journey was completing my Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) from January to May 2023. I served at the Volunteers of America (VOA) High School under the Social Justice CPE program in St. Paul, Minnesota, which provided hands-on training in spiritual care, pastoral counseling, and ministry in diverse settings. I also had the privilege of being part of the St. Paul Social Justice Unit, the only CPE unit in the United States that allows students to work directly with incarcerated individuals at the Stillwater Department of Corrections.
This transformative experience not only deepened my pastoral skills but also strengthened my commitment to black liberation, Pan-Africanism, conflict management, and restorative justice. Working with students, staff, and incarcerated individuals helped me see the integration of social justice with spiritual care, which lies at the heart of the ELCA's mission.
CPE helped me refine my approach to pastoral care and affirmed my calling to serve in both Word and Sacrament ministries. It has been a challenging and rewarding journey, and I am grateful to God and the Luther Seminary community for the support and encouragement that have carried me through this stage of candidacy.
This transformative experience not only deepened my pastoral skills but also strengthened my commitment to black liberation, Pan-Africanism, conflict management, and restorative justice. Working with students, staff, and incarcerated individuals helped me see the integration of social justice with spiritual care, which lies at the heart of the ELCA's mission.
CPE helped me refine my approach to pastoral care and affirmed my calling to serve in both Word and Sacrament ministries. It has been a challenging and rewarding journey, and I am grateful to God and the Luther Seminary community for the support and encouragement that have carried me through this stage of candidacy.
Where I Am Today
Currently, I am in the candidacy process with the ELCA and nearing the endorsement stage, working closely with the St. Paul Synod. I hope to receive approval by December 2023 or early next year, allowing me to begin my pastoral internship in August 2024. The candidacy process has been one of profound growth and discovery, providing opportunities for deep theological reflection and spiritual formation as I prepare for ordained ministry.
My time at Luther Seminary, along with the guidance of ELCA leaders, has shaped me as both a pastor and a justice advocate. Completing my Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) at Volunteers of America High School in May 2023 was a pivotal moment, offering hands-on experience in spiritual care, conflict resolution, and ministry with marginalized communities. This experience has deepened my commitment to the ELCA's focus on social justice and pastoral care.
However, this journey has also been marked by personal challenges. My mother's recent diagnosis of pancreatic cancer has weighed heavily on me and my family. Being far from home during this difficult time has tested my strength, but her unwavering faith and courage continue to inspire me as I move forward in ministry.
I trust that God’s calling will continue to guide me as I prepare to serve the church and the broader community with a focus on justice, care, and leadership.
My time at Luther Seminary, along with the guidance of ELCA leaders, has shaped me as both a pastor and a justice advocate. Completing my Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) at Volunteers of America High School in May 2023 was a pivotal moment, offering hands-on experience in spiritual care, conflict resolution, and ministry with marginalized communities. This experience has deepened my commitment to the ELCA's focus on social justice and pastoral care.
However, this journey has also been marked by personal challenges. My mother's recent diagnosis of pancreatic cancer has weighed heavily on me and my family. Being far from home during this difficult time has tested my strength, but her unwavering faith and courage continue to inspire me as I move forward in ministry.
I trust that God’s calling will continue to guide me as I prepare to serve the church and the broader community with a focus on justice, care, and leadership.