Atta’s role. The Rev. David Roth, regional pastor for the western United States,
attended the meeting, as did the Rev. Mark Perry, pastor of the San Diego
New Church.
Most ordinations take place in front of the minister’s congregation. Chris
Barber’s ordination was unusual in that his “congregation” is the students in
the Academy Secondary Schools. It was a powerful experience for them to
witness this rite for their Religion teacher as part of their daily chapel service.
The Rt. Rev. Brian W. Keith officiated at the service and the Rev. Barry
Halterman, Chaplain for the Secondary Schools, also took part.
Mr. Barber distributed this statement to the students, faculty and guests:
“Dear Friends: It is with great humility that I take this next step in my
ministry. Entering into the second degree of the priesthood signifies entrance
into the pastoral role, but this entrance does not happen overnight. It is gradual
and relatively imperceptible. Rest assured, I am not leaving the Academy, but
am anticipating serving in this new way as long as providence makes this my
home.
“While serving here in the classroom I have developed a love not only of
teaching, but a love of stirring affections – helping students to become excited
about Divine concepts and to consider putting those concepts into practice on
a daily basis.
“In the chapel setting I have been able to bring heaven closer in dialogue
with everyone by means of stories from the Word and teachings from the
Heavenly Doctrine.
“In the hallways, between classes, after school, and during extracurricular
activities, I have had the chance to become acquainted with so many wonderful
individuals, each standing as examples of mustard seeds that can someday
move mountains. I can’t tell you how much joy I get from knowing you now,
and what excitement I find in considering where the Lord’s loving providence
might guide you.
“Many thanks to my fellow faculty members who inspire me to be a better
teacher; many thanks to the students themselves who inspire me to be a better
representative of heaven; and many thanks to my Lord for all His benefits
toward me.
“May we all grow together in His love, wisdom and usefulness to eternity.”
(For photos of both ordinations, see page 568.)
school expansion in kempton
Mark Wyncoll, Assistant Principal
Friends of New Church Education may be excited to learn of a new development
in Kempton, Pennsylvania. In October our society voted to extend our formal
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