Answering the Call: My Path to Ministry at 50, Against All Odds

Answering the Call: My Path to Ministry at 50, Against All Odds

For years, my life revolved around the beautiful chaos of raising a family. There were school plays, soccer games, countless loads of laundry, and the constant hum of a bustling home. And through it all, a quiet but persistent whisper in my heart grew louder: a call to ministry. Now, at 50, with my children grown and forging their own paths, I'm finally answering that call, embarking on a journey to become a Methodist minister.

This isn't a sudden decision, but rather the culmination of years of prayer, reflection, and a deep-seated desire to serve. There's a unique joy in stepping into this new chapter, a sense of rightness in dedicating this phase of my life to something so profoundly meaningful. But it hasn't been without its challenges, particularly in the past year.

The Unforeseen Hurdles: Surgeries and Menopause

Just under a year ago, my physical world was turned upside down by multiple surgeries. The recovery was tougher than I anticipated, demanding patience and a significant amount of healing time. Just as I was starting to regain my strength, menopause decided to make its grand entrance. If you've been there, you know it's not just hot flashes; it's a whole symphony of hormonal shifts that can make even simple tasks feel like climbing a mountain. Brain fog, fatigue, mood swings—it all adds an unexpected layer of complexity to daily life, let alone intense academic study.

So, here I am, less than a year out from major surgeries and navigating the unpredictable waters of menopause, simultaneously diving headfirst into the rigorous demands of seminary. Some days, it feels like I'm running an Ironman while trying to solve a Rubik's Cube blindfolded. But every single challenge reinforces the conviction that this is truly where I'm meant to be. This path isn't just about answering a call; it's about pushing past perceived limits and discovering an inner resilience I didn't know I had.

A Family of Faiths (and Non-Faiths)

One of the most frequent questions I get, and perhaps one of the most interesting aspects of my story, is about my family's spiritual landscape. My children, now adults, represent a beautiful spectrum of beliefs: one is Wiccan, another an atheist, and my third is a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Some might see this as a challenge to my own faith, or even a contradiction. For me, it's a testament to the power of love, respect, and individual journeys. Our dinner table conversations are never dull! We've learned to listen, to understand, and to appreciate the diverse ways we each seek meaning and truth in the world. It has, in fact, deepened my own understanding of grace and acceptance, and I believe it will make me a more empathetic and open-minded minister. My own spiritual path is mine, and theirs is theirs, and our love for each other transcends any differences in belief.

A Supportive Partner at Home

And then there's my incredible husband. While he won't be joining me in the physical journey of church life, his support is the bedrock upon which I'm building this new chapter. He'll be staying home, managing our lives there, and cheering me on every step of the way. His unwavering encouragement and willingness to embrace this significant shift in our lives have been an incredible gift. We're a team, as we always have been, just with a new division of labor!

Stepping into the Unknown with Faith

Becoming a minister at 50 feels like a new beginning in so many ways. I'm excited to dive into theological studies, to connect with congregations, and to serve communities in a deeper capacity. There's a natural apprehension that comes with any big life change, but it's overshadowed by a profound sense of purpose and an undeniable feeling of being exactly where I'm meant to be.

This journey is a testament to the idea that it's never too late to answer a call, to pursue a passion, or to dedicate yourself to something greater than yourself. It's also a powerful reminder that even amidst personal health challenges and the natural transitions of life, our purpose can emerge with clarity and strength. My path to ministry may look a little different than some, but it's my path, and I'm ready to walk it, with an open heart and the full support of my wonderfully unique family!

See you next week, when we dive deep into more Homeschoolzilla approved cheats and hacks for homeschooling with complications.