November 1st, 1973 in Christ Church Cathedral I was ordained to the priesthood of the Episcopal Church. My parents were there and I have a cherished picture of their giving me the gold chalice that we use on Sunday .

This November 1st, Mary Erickson will be ordained to the diaconate, the final step for her on a long journey to her ordination to the priesthood next spring. Mary will be what is known as a transitional deacon, someone in the final stage of preparation for the priesthood, as opposed to Dn. Dennis, who is a vocational deacon, one whose preparation is such that the diaconate is the holy order they will remain a part of.

This is an important day for Mary, but an important accomplishment for the parish as well. Three and a half years ago the vestry authorized my search for a part time assistant. I interviewed a newly retired Episcopal priest from Idaho, a Lutheran pastor from Star Valley and Mary, a lay person newly relocated to Jackson. Mary was a graduate of Harvard Divinity School (where she roomed with Ann Fontaine), but life got in the way and she was never ordained. I saw the job as being the one person here who would have time to "go sit down for tea with people."

I made the right decision about whom to hire back then and I am delighted that Mary feels the same way. To me, she will be an outstanding priest and a perfect example of the nuance that women bring to the ministry that men do not. You have assisted me in forming her vocation and supported her spiritual and professional growth. November 1st will be a memorable day for Mary . . . but it will also be a well-deserved celebration for us all!

God's peace,
Fr. Ken Asel