Recently I was ordained to the office of priest. In the early spring of 2020, we had just begun contemplating a date for the service when the COVID-19 Pandemic caused in-person worship to cease. This put a pause on planning. I am grateful the church prepared a way to make most sacraments available to be administered online. My service in many respects had the same elements as most ordination services: prayers, hymns, words of testimony and affirmation, a charge, and of course the laying on of hands and ordination itself. While we were not physically gathered, the Spirit was still ever present. The virtual laying of hands on my head was just as meaningful and spirit-filled. What was even more a blessing was because the service was held online, people from all over the nation and world could attend. People whom I have made connections with through Latter-day Seekers, Graceland Seminary, Spiritual Formation and Companioning Program, and the various congregations I have attended, and of course family and friends. Many people that likely would not have been able to attend if this service were in person. It was a memorable day that I will cherish always, made all the more special by those who were able to attend.
By Tyler Marz
Crystal Spring Congregation (Bothell, WA)
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