Two recent books that have deepened my faith and calling:

This Foundational Order by Dr. Tara Jernigan

The Book of Common Prayer: A Biography by Dr. Alan Jacobs

The history of the Book of Common Prayer was fascinating because I learned so much more of English history and the blood literally shed over the divides in the English church.

More than that, though, is the understanding that it was developed as a tool for worship and discipleship that could help believers all around the world. It is not a stretch to say that having the Bible and the Book of Common Prayer would be enough for worship and discipleship in nearly any context.

Jacobs brings a fresh reading a new appreciation for the BCP.

Jernigan’s book is a great primer for those considering the vocational diaconate. She roots the diaconate in the historic understanding that it is indeed a foundational order. Priests and bishops begin as deacons and should never depart from that order.

What I learned in this reading was St. Francis of Assisi began his order with the hope of being blessed by the pope, and Francis was ordained a deacon and never became a priest. He served as a leader of a movement without feeling a need to “move up” to becoming a priest.

Another deacon I learned about was Nicolas Ferrar (1592-1637). He was part of the English Reformation and a well educated deacon. As a scholar, he would teach with authority, but allow himself to serve in places where the priest wasn’t as educated or proficient, and he submitted to that authority.

Both of these men served in public proclamation, not just in the service of the table. When I was a transferring my ordination into the Anglican Church, I sensed the Lord directing me to the diaconate rather than the priesthood,and learning more from historical examples has confirmed that direction in my life.

I am grateful for my current home in the Anglican Church. I am grateful for these scholars telling the story so well. I am affirmed in my calling and my faith continues to deepen.