Two weeks ago my husband was ordained as a deacon in the Orthodox Church. It was a joyous occasion filled with many emotions (especially for this 8 month pregnant lady) and so many blessings! When I met my husband, some 15 years ago, he told me he wanted to be a pastor “when he grew up.” He was 16 years old at the time. He felt a call to ministry at a very young age, and as a young teen myself I was completely drawn to him. I felt that same desire to serve God and the church, and I could imagine our future together. Although our road here wasn’t what we imagined back then, one thing remains true, we are both dedicated to spending our lives serving the church. Witnessing my husband washing the Bishop’s hands, standing before the icon of Christ in prayer, hearing the people yell “Axios!! He is worthy” was so moving and emotional. This is what God has been preparing him for all along; preparing US for - to serve Christ and His Church with our whole lives. What a humbling experience to be here in this moment, knowing He has directed us every step of the way. My husband is the most humble, loving, kind, God-fearing man I know and I am honored to stand by his side as he leads us towards God. What a gift and treasure he has been to my life and to the lives of those around us.

For those who are unfamiliar with the Orthodox Church: the term deacon means to “serve” or “assist” and that is exactly what they do! It is the first major order in the sacrament of ordination - which is deacon, priest, and bishop. Their role is to serve the people, the Church and most assuredly assist the priest. Those ordained as deacons are considered to be full members of the clergy, so this service/ordination is very special and sacred. As part of our seminary journey, God-willing, my husband will be made a priest next year. Our next steps are to finish seminary in 2 years and at that time he will be assigned to a parish (church) somewhere in the United States as a priest.

So here are some photos I snapped during his ordination!

Adios to my husband, Deacon David!

- Destinie