Scott McDonald reflects on his deacon year
Scott will be ordained presbyter to serve as Diocesan Curate with Lecale Area Mission Partnership (LAMP) Ministry Team.
In looking back on my experiences as a deacon I am very conscious of God’s faithfulness to us as a family. His goodness has been evident as the leadership and people of Willowfield have welcomed us and allowed us to share in some of the wonderful things that God is doing in them and through them in East Belfast and beyond.
It has been a busy year in the parish which has seen significant additions to the staff team as well as a change of emphasis in ministry for others. This process is indicative of a dynamic gathering of God’s people who are passionate about seeing the Kingdom of God come in power and the church grow in membership and love. In observing this I have learned the crucial lesson of how strong leadership needs to be aligned to God–given vision and how vital collaborative ministry is for a balanced biblical understanding of Christian ministry in today’s world. Of particular significance to me in this regard is the way in which strong pastoral care and ongoing innovative evangelism are creatively integrated in the life of the parish. As I have worshipped God and sought to serve his people in Willowfield I have made new friends, learned important lessons and witnessed God at work in bringing people to faith and in healing many in need. I am thankful to the Rector, leaders and congregation for this time spent with them.
Vocation is indeed a journey and having completed three years of training I am very excited about the prospects of becoming a part of LAMP. With the Very Revd. Henry Hull as the team leader, I am eagerly anticipating working with new colleagues, ordained and lay, who are committed to building upon the legacy of the Church of Ireland, and strengthening its life and witness, in this beautiful part of the world.