Ordination: Not an Arrival, But a Commissioning

My journey in ministry began in campus ministry and later continued as I served as a youth director and pastor over the years. For a long time, I was simply focused on serving where God had placed me and on being equipped to serve His people, and I had not seriously considered pursuing ordination. It was during my time at Fuller Theological Seminary, and later through ISAAC’s PastoraLab, that I had the space to reflect more deeply on my experiences in ministry and discern this step more intentionally.

As an Asian American woman serving in pastoral ministry—a space that is still predominantly male—I am especially grateful for the two years of intentional cohort life in PastoraLab. Walking alongside other women in ministry created a meaningful space for fellowship, encouragement, and mutual support as we followed Christ and served in our different ministry contexts.

Being ordained is both a personal step of faith and a recognition from the communities and leaders who have journeyed with me in ministry. I am deeply grateful for those who have affirmed God’s calling in my life and for the churches and mentors who have supported me along the way.

As I look ahead, I see ordination not as an arrival but as a commissioning—to continue shepherding God’s people, preaching the Word, and participating in what God is doing in our communities.