The moment to move has arrived

  And so, after months of preparation, the moment to move has arrived.  It seems like only 5 minutes ago that I was sitting, tired and jet-lagged, in my principal's office as I was told that I was being stationed in Sheffield; rather than the 7 months it has actually been.  In that time I have studied, pondered, relaxed, packed, prayed and tried to ready myself for this next step.

  So how do I feel?

  Excited... Nervous... Frightened... Calm

  It has been so many years since I first felt the call to ministry, and now I am taking one big step towards realising that call - moving to the place where I shall be minister.  One thing my training at college has taught me (among many things obviously!) is how big the role of ordained minister actually is.  This is the reason for my nerves and apprehension.  Yet in the final service at my home church in Berkshire we sang the Lord's my Shepherd including the chorus 'And I will trust in you alone/ and I will trust in you alone/ for your endless mercy follows me/ your goodness will lead me home.  Definitely reassuring.

  But it is not only apprehension - there is real excitement.  Excitement to serve and to lead.  Excitement to be among the people in Sheffield and being part of the very large Sheffield Circuit.  I can't wait to live in a part of the country with great walks and bike rides on my doorstep and yet also near the centre of the city.  One thing about which I'm quite thankful is the couple of weeks to settle in and find my feet before I actually begin.

  I believe God has called me, and now I must trust him to equip me.