Monday, July 16, 2007

Holy Orders

You are reading the writing of a very proud husband. This week at the Southwest Ohio District Assembly, the Church will honor God's call to pastoral ministry in Julia's life. The Church will bestow Holy Orders upon her, ordaining Julia Elder in the Church of the Nazarene and we are very excited.

Last weekend I read Dennis Covington's Salvation on Sand Mountain (If you have not read it, read it now!) and he reminded me of something. Our Lord first appeared to Mary Magdalene (who is to be honored as equal among the apostles), and she was to tell the disciples of his resurrection. She was the first of preachers of the truly Good News of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ that defeated death once and for all. It was the disciples who did not believe her and insisted on seeing for themselves.

This week I am proud of my wife, God's most holy call on her life, and the Church's bestowment of Holy Orders.

7 comments:

John said...

Congratulations Julia...It is truly a blessing to have the ordination of the Church upon us in recognition of God's call to ministry. I am very happy for you. I know that you have worked towards and anticipated this moment for quite a while. May God bless this time of excitement in your life with joy as well as a deep sense of humility. Brenda and I love you both. God bless.

Anonymous said...

Congradulations Julia!

Anonymous said...

Absolutely what they all said, mucho congrats!

Evan and Julia Abla said...

Thanks everybody -- Evan's articulating much better than I am right now. I'm planning to do some extended meta-thought after the event and share with you then. I know some of you who read this blog, because we're in ministry together, understand how meaningful this occasion is. I really appreciate the prayers and true encouragement that I've received at this church and through our friends and family.

Marsha said...

How wonderful for a husband to proclaim his pride for his wife in such a public forum! You both are VERY blessed---this I know for sure.
Sis

Anonymous said...

This I know...it is a done deal...I was there and was very proud of Julia and her husband. The occasion was well orchestrated. You radiated with the Spirit upon you. Dr. Porter was at his best as he laid hands on your head and spoke those words that changer your status in the "church" forever. Now our family has its second female minister (none will forget Grace Abla...missionary to the Africans).

Your mother-in-law and I are quite proud.

Jason said...

Congratulations Julia. It will continue to be important for this denomination to recognize the value of ordaining women and placing them in positions of authority.