Baptist deacon ordination service outline – With the Baptist deacon ordination service Artikel as your guide, you’re stepping into a world of profound spiritual significance. This Artikel isn’t just a list of steps; it’s a roadmap to a meaningful ceremony, honouring the important role of deacons within the Baptist faith. Prepare to explore the structure, scriptural basis, rituals, and responsibilities of this vital ministry.
From crafting a compelling service program to addressing potential challenges, this Artikel provides a practical and comprehensive resource. It dives deep into the heart of deacon ordination, offering a rich tapestry of information, from the opening prayer to the closing benediction, to equip you to lead a memorable and meaningful service. The Artikel will cover everything from the scriptural roots of the role to the practicalities of planning and executing the ordination itself.
Service Structure
A deacon ordination service is a significant occasion, marking a pivotal step in a person’s spiritual journey and service to the church community. It’s a time of solemn reflection, joyous celebration, and profound commitment. The service carefully balances tradition with the unique character of the congregation.The structure of a Baptist deacon ordination service, while generally following a similar pattern, can vary slightly between different Baptist denominations.
Some may emphasize certain elements more than others, but the core elements remain consistent. The focus is always on recognizing the individual’s calling and their commitment to serve the Lord and the church body.
Service Elements
A well-structured service guides the attendees through a sequence of meaningful moments. Each segment plays a crucial role in the overall experience, from the opening prayer to the closing benediction.
- Opening Prayer: The service begins with a prayer, often led by a senior pastor or a respected elder. This prayer sets the tone for the entire ceremony, invoking God’s presence and blessing on the proceedings.
- Scripture Readings: Biblical readings are often chosen to emphasize the importance of service, leadership, and stewardship. These readings are typically from passages relating to leadership, commitment, and responsibility.
- Testimonials: This part of the service features personal accounts from individuals who know and appreciate the nominee’s character, service, and faith. These testimonies are vital for demonstrating the candidate’s suitability and commitment.
- Charges to the Deacons: A significant portion of the service is dedicated to the charges given to the newly ordained deacons. These charges are typically delivered by the senior pastor, highlighting the responsibilities and expectations of their new roles. These charges often provide specific guidance for their tasks and responsibilities within the church context. They encourage the deacons to live according to their faith and to lead by example.
- Ordination Ceremony: This segment is usually conducted with a formal ritual, symbolizing the official recognition and affirmation of the deacon’s appointment. This is where the ordained individual receives their official recognition.
- Closing Benediction: The service concludes with a closing prayer, known as a benediction. This prayer provides a sense of finality and blessing for all present, offering a concluding note of faith and hope.
Sample Program Schedule
This sample program provides a guideline for the time allocation for each segment. Adjustments can be made based on the length of the testimonials and the specific needs of the service.
Activity | Description | Estimated Time |
---|---|---|
Opening Prayer | Setting the tone for the ceremony. | 5 minutes |
Scripture Readings | Relevant biblical passages. | 10 minutes |
Testimonials | Personal accounts about the nominee. | 20 minutes |
Charges to the Deacons | Guidance and expectations for their roles. | 15 minutes |
Ordination Ceremony | Formal recognition of the appointment. | 10 minutes |
Closing Benediction | Blessing for all present. | 5 minutes |
Scriptural Basis
The foundation of our faith, and the roles of those who serve within it, are deeply rooted in scripture. This section explores the rich tapestry of biblical texts that illuminate the responsibilities and significance of deacons. Understanding these passages provides a solid framework for fulfilling these vital roles within our community.
Commonly Referenced Passages
These verses, frequently cited during deacon ordination services, form the cornerstone of our understanding of deacons’ duties and character. They underscore the importance of service, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to the Lord’s work.
- Acts 6:1-7: This passage details the establishment of the diaconate as a distinct ministry. It highlights the importance of choosing men who possess integrity, wisdom, and a reputation for spiritual maturity to care for the practical needs of the church community.
- 1 Timothy 3:8-13: Paul’s instruction to Timothy about qualifications for deacons emphasizes character traits like honesty, temperance, and a reputation for sound judgment. This passage reveals the profound importance of ethical conduct and spiritual discernment in those called to serve in this role.
- 1 Timothy 3:10-11: Further emphasizing the importance of the diaconate’s reputation, these verses detail the specific characteristics that distinguish a good deacon. These include integrity, reliability, and a commitment to the principles of the Christian faith.
- Titus 1:5-9: This passage underscores the significance of appointing men of exemplary character to leadership positions within the church, including the role of deacon.
Biblical Roles and Responsibilities
These texts Artikel the roles and responsibilities of deacons in a variety of contexts, providing a rich understanding of their impact on the church.
- Acts 6:1-7: The initial diaconate was established to free the apostles from the burden of administrative tasks, allowing them to focus on prayer and teaching. This illustrates the practical, yet essential, role of deacons in managing the physical needs of the church community, such as food distribution and care for the needy.
- 1 Timothy 3:8-13, 1 Timothy 3:10-11: These passages highlight the importance of deacons as servants of the church. They are to be men of integrity and sound judgment, exhibiting temperance and a concern for the spiritual well-being of the community. Their roles extend beyond simply fulfilling practical needs, encompassing pastoral care and ensuring the church functions effectively.
- Titus 1:5-9: Appointing deacons, alongside other leaders, demonstrates the importance of leadership that is both spiritually sound and practically effective. These individuals were responsible for guiding and supporting the growth of the church in a practical way.
Interpretations of Deacons’ Roles
Various interpretations exist concerning the scope of deacons’ responsibilities. Some interpretations focus on the practical aspects of service, such as overseeing the provision of material resources. Others emphasize the spiritual dimension, seeing deacons as leaders in mentoring and pastoral care. There is no single, universally accepted interpretation of the precise scope of deacons’ roles, but a thoughtful study of these scriptures offers a rich and diverse understanding.
Relevant Verses for Service Program
Verse | Reference |
---|---|
Acts 6:1-7 | Establishing the diaconate |
1 Timothy 3:8-13 | Deacon qualifications |
1 Timothy 3:10-11 | Specific deacon characteristics |
Titus 1:5-9 | Appointment of leaders |
Ordination Rituals and Practices

Welcoming our newest deacons to the ministry is a significant moment, filled with tradition and symbolism. These rituals aren’t just ceremonies; they’re powerful expressions of faith, commitment, and the transfer of responsibility. The ordination process underscores the importance of these roles within our Baptist community.These rituals, often steeped in biblical precedent, serve to formally recognize and empower the newly ordained deacons.
They symbolize the transition from a life of service and preparation to a more public and formalized role within the church. These practices are meant to both acknowledge the individual’s commitment and to remind the congregation of the significance of their role.
Common Ordination Rituals
These practices vary slightly among Baptist congregations, but core elements often remain consistent. The shared understanding underscores the importance of these elements in the ordination process. This shared foundation creates a strong sense of unity and purpose among the deacons and the wider congregation.
- Laying on of Hands: This ancient ritual symbolizes the transfer of spiritual gifts and authority. The elders or pastors place their hands on the deacon’s head, invoking God’s blessing and anointing for their new role. This act represents the bestowing of God’s grace and empowerment for the ministry. This is a visual representation of the spiritual support and guidance the deacon will receive.
- Presentation of the Deacon’s Charge: This crucial element formally defines the deacon’s responsibilities. A carefully crafted charge, often based on biblical passages, Artikels the expectations and duties of the deacon’s office. This charge serves as a reminder of the commitments the deacon has undertaken. This written or spoken charge is an opportunity for the church to reaffirm the significance of the deacon’s role and its importance in the life of the church.
- Prayer and Scripture Reading: These elements provide a foundation of prayer and spiritual guidance. The invocation of God’s presence is crucial in setting the tone for the entire ordination service. The reading of scripture emphasizes the biblical basis for the deacon’s ministry and the duties associated with it. This fosters a sense of reverence and solemnity.
- Recognition and Benediction: The new deacons are recognized publicly, formally acknowledging their ordination. A closing prayer, or benediction, concludes the service, offering God’s blessings and support to the new deacons in their ministry. This marks the culmination of the ordination ceremony and the transition to a new phase in their service.
Symbolic Meanings of Elements
The ordination ceremony isn’t just a series of actions; each element holds profound symbolic meaning.
- Laying on of Hands: The physical act of laying on hands symbolizes the impartation of spiritual gifts, authority, and blessing. It echoes the practices in the New Testament, connecting the new deacons to a rich tradition of ministry.
- Deacon’s Charge: The charge, a formal statement of duties and responsibilities, signifies the commitment and accountability the deacon assumes. It Artikels the specific ways the deacon will serve the church and its members. This provides a tangible framework for the deacon’s ministry.
- Prayer and Scripture: These elements establish a deeply spiritual context for the ordination. The prayers seek divine guidance and blessing, while the scriptures offer foundational principles for the deacon’s ministry. This focus on prayer and scripture underscores the spiritual nature of the role.
- Recognition and Benediction: The public recognition acknowledges the deacon’s new role and position within the church. The benediction signifies God’s continued support and protection. This provides a sense of closure and a renewed focus on God’s presence.
Order of Execution
The sequence of rituals in a Baptist deacon ordination service is typically as follows:
Ritual | Significance | Order |
---|---|---|
Laying on of Hands | Transfer of spiritual gifts and authority | 2 |
Presentation of the Deacon’s Charge | Formal definition of responsibilities | 3 |
Prayer and Scripture Reading | Spiritual guidance and biblical foundation | 1 |
Recognition and Benediction | Public acknowledgment and closing blessing | 4 |
Deacon Responsibilities and Qualifications
A deacon’s role in a Baptist church is one of vital support and service. They are not simply helpers, but active participants in the life of the congregation, entrusted with specific responsibilities that contribute significantly to the overall well-being and growth of the church. Their duties often extend beyond the visible, touching lives and offering practical assistance.Deacons are chosen for their character, skills, and commitment to Christ.
They are individuals who demonstrate a profound understanding of the Gospel and are eager to use their gifts for the betterment of the church and community. Their service is not about personal recognition, but about serving the Lord and His people.
Deacon Responsibilities
Deacons are expected to be deeply involved in the practical aspects of church life. This involves a wide range of tasks, each contributing to the smooth operation and spiritual nourishment of the congregation.
- Maintaining Order and Supporting the Pastor: Deacons often assist the pastor in maintaining order and decorum during services, ensuring a positive and focused atmosphere for worship. This might include ushering, directing visitors, and managing facilities.
- Assisting with Church Finances: Deacons play a crucial role in the financial administration of the church, ensuring transparency and accountability in handling donations and other financial matters. This includes reviewing financial reports, verifying transactions, and ensuring adherence to church policies.
- Caring for the Needs of the Community: Deacons often work to identify and address the practical needs of the congregation and community. This may include coordinating food drives, offering support to families facing hardship, or providing aid to those in crisis. Acts of compassion and generosity are central to this aspect of the role.
- Supporting Missions and Outreach: Deacons can assist in coordinating and supporting church outreach programs, including missions, community service initiatives, and other charitable endeavors. This includes organizing events, raising funds, and ensuring effective communication.
- Serving the Church Family: Deacons act as a bridge between the church leadership and the congregation, ensuring that the needs of members are met. They actively listen to concerns, offer support, and promote a sense of belonging within the church community. This involves active listening, empathy, and thoughtful communication.
Deacon Qualifications
Beyond specific tasks, certain qualities and skills are essential for effective deacons. These qualities reflect the character traits that are fundamental to serving others in the Lord’s name.
- Faithfulness and Integrity: Deacons must be individuals of unwavering faith, exhibiting honesty and integrity in all their dealings. They are held to a higher standard of moral conduct. Their actions should be an example to others.
- Stewardship and Accountability: Deacons are entrusted with resources and responsibilities. They must manage these with care and accountability, ensuring that financial and material resources are used wisely and in accordance with church policies.
- Compassion and Empathy: Deacons are expected to show compassion and empathy towards the members of the church and the wider community. Their actions should reflect genuine care for the well-being of others. They must listen to others’ needs and concerns, and offer support.
- Good Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Deacons need to communicate effectively with others, both within the church and the wider community. They should be able to listen actively, understand diverse perspectives, and convey information clearly. This helps foster strong relationships and trust.
- Commitment and Dedication: Deacons demonstrate a deep commitment to the church and its mission. Their dedication to service is evident in their consistent presence and participation in church activities.
Evaluating a Candidate’s Suitability
Evaluating a candidate for deacon involves a thorough process, carefully considering their qualifications and suitability for the role. This is a vital step in ensuring that the chosen individual will serve effectively and faithfully.
- Character Assessment: Character assessments will include reference checks, interviews with trusted individuals, and a review of their history of service and involvement within the church and community. The goal is to assess their moral character, trustworthiness, and commitment to Christian values.
- Skill Evaluation: Skills evaluations will assess their abilities in communication, leadership, and problem-solving. This might involve practical exercises, presentations, or simulations to evaluate their capacity to handle the responsibilities of the role.
- Spiritual Maturity Assessment: A significant aspect of evaluation is assessing their spiritual maturity and commitment to the Gospel. This will include interviews with spiritual leaders and a review of their personal testimony and relationship with Christ.
Deacon Responsibilities, Skills, and Biblical Principles
Deacon Responsibility | Expected Skills | Associated Biblical Principles |
---|---|---|
Maintaining Order and Supporting the Pastor | Leadership, Communication, Discretion | 1 Timothy 3:8-13, Hebrews 13:17 |
Assisting with Church Finances | Financial Management, Accountability, Transparency | Proverbs 3:9-10, 1 Timothy 3:8-13 |
Caring for the Needs of the Community | Compassion, Empathy, Problem-Solving | Matthew 25:31-46, Galatians 6:2 |
Supporting Missions and Outreach | Organization, Initiative, Collaboration | Acts 1:8, Matthew 28:18-20 |
Serving the Church Family | Active Listening, Conflict Resolution, Patience | 1 Thessalonians 5:14, Ephesians 4:32 |
Addressing the Congregation
Brothers and sisters in Christ, we gather today not just to witness a sacred ordination, but to celebrate the vital role of deacons within our community. Their dedication and service are the very fabric that strengthens our church, and today, we are blessed to welcome these new servants of God.Deacons are more than just volunteers; they are indispensable members of our church family, playing a crucial role in ensuring the practical needs of our community are met.
Their commitment to service extends beyond the walls of the church, reaching into the lives of those around us, demonstrating the love and compassion of Christ in tangible ways.
The Significance of Deacons in the Local Church
Deacons embody the heart of our church. They are the hands and feet of Christ, actively involved in caring for the needs of the body of Christ, both spiritually and materially. Their presence reflects the importance of practical love and service, demonstrating how faith translates into action. Their work is a vital component in the overall well-being and growth of our church.
Their presence fosters a sense of community and belonging, making the church a haven for those in need.
Roles and Responsibilities of Deacons
The role of a deacon encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, each contributing to the overall health and well-being of our church. They serve as vital links between the leadership and the congregation, ensuring that the message of Christ reaches all corners of our community. They are active participants in the ministry, supporting the church’s mission and activities.
Their involvement is integral to the growth and sustainability of our spiritual community.
- Spiritual Care and Guidance: Deacons offer pastoral care to members, particularly those facing hardship or challenges. They provide encouragement, support, and a listening ear. This might involve visiting the sick, offering words of comfort, or simply being a presence of love and compassion.
- Practical Assistance: Deacons are tasked with addressing the practical needs of the church community. This could involve coordinating food drives, assisting with community outreach programs, or ensuring that those in need have access to resources.
- Community Outreach: Deacons play a key role in extending the love and compassion of Christ beyond the church walls. They can organize events, volunteer at local charities, or engage in other outreach initiatives that bring the gospel to those in the wider community.
- Supporting the Ministry Team: Deacons work collaboratively with pastors, elders, and other church leaders. They contribute to the smooth operation of church services, programs, and activities, ensuring everything runs smoothly.
Illustrative Examples of Deacon Service
Deacons are a vital part of the church’s infrastructure, contributing significantly to its functionality. Their presence strengthens the church’s ability to support the community.
- A deacon visits a shut-in member each week, bringing a meal and offering encouragement. This simple act demonstrates the church’s care and strengthens the bond within the community.
- Deacons organize a food drive for families in need, collecting donations and distributing them to those struggling. This tangible demonstration of love embodies the essence of Christian service.
- Deacons coordinate a clothing drive for the homeless, providing warmth and dignity to those who are struggling. This action extends the church’s love beyond its walls.
- A deacon volunteers at a local soup kitchen, assisting with meal preparation and service. This act of practical compassion demonstrates the church’s commitment to serving the less fortunate.
Service Materials

Planning the ordination service requires meticulous attention to detail, ensuring a smooth and meaningful experience for everyone involved. From the physical space to the printed materials, every element contributes to the overall atmosphere and reverence of the occasion. A well-prepared service reflects the dedication and care invested in the ordination process.Comprehensive materials are essential for a successful ordination service.
These materials provide the framework for the event, guiding participants and creating a cohesive experience. A well-organized service program, for example, helps maintain the flow of the service, while visually appealing decorations and comfortable seating arrangements contribute to a positive atmosphere.
Service Program
The service program acts as a roadmap for the event, guiding attendees through the various components. A well-designed program ensures everyone knows what to expect, fostering a sense of anticipation and clarity. It serves as a tangible reminder of the significance of the ordination and the individuals being recognized.
- The program should include a clear and concise schedule of events, noting the time allocated for each part of the service.
- Include essential information like scripture readings, hymn numbers, and speaker introductions.
- Important announcements, such as upcoming events or community initiatives, should be prominently displayed.
- Provide space for attendees to record any personal notes or reflections. This allows for a deeper connection with the service.
A sample program template can be structured as follows:
Time | Event | Scripture | Speaker |
---|---|---|---|
9:00 AM | Opening Prayer | Psalm 23 | Pastor John Smith |
9:15 AM | Hymn | ||
9:20 AM | Scripture Reading | Ephesians 4:11-16 | Deacon Candidate |
… | … | … | … |
11:00 AM | Benediction | Pastor John Smith |
Physical Space Arrangements
The physical environment significantly impacts the service’s atmosphere. Thoughtful planning for seating, acoustics, and decor can create a welcoming and reverent space for the ordination.
- Ensure sufficient seating for all anticipated attendees, with consideration for accessibility needs.
- Adequate sound amplification and microphone systems are crucial for clear audio throughout the service. Ensure they are well-tested.
- Decor should enhance the atmosphere, reflecting the solemnity and joy of the occasion. Consider using simple, elegant decor that complements the overall theme.
- A designated space for collecting offering donations and for other materials should be readily available.
Pre-Service Checklist
A comprehensive checklist will help streamline preparations, preventing potential errors and ensuring a smooth ordination service. Detailed preparation will contribute to a more meaningful and well-executed event.
- Confirm all materials, such as hymnals, programs, and any visual aids, are ready.
- Ensure all audio-visual equipment is functional and appropriately positioned.
- Confirm all speakers and readers are informed about their roles and responsibilities.
- Verify the physical space is arranged according to the plan, ensuring accessibility and comfort for all.
Addressing Potential Challenges

Navigating the delicate dance of community and faith requires careful planning and proactive strategies. Deacon ordinations, while joyful occasions, can encounter unforeseen hurdles. Understanding potential challenges empowers us to address them with grace and resolve, ensuring the service remains a testament to God’s love and the community’s unity.The selection process, while meticulously crafted, can sometimes face unexpected obstacles.
Transparency and clear communication are key to addressing any concerns from potential candidates. Open dialogue, coupled with a thorough review of qualifications, ensures that every step aligns with the principles of fairness and respect.
Common Challenges During the Service
The smooth flow of a deacon ordination service relies on meticulous preparation. Potential disruptions, like technical difficulties with audio-visual equipment, or unexpected absences of key participants, can be managed with contingency plans. A backup plan for the music, a designated person to handle announcements, and a readily available alternative location can minimize any impact on the service.
- Unexpected interruptions, such as disruptive visitors or personal crises, require a calm and decisive response. A designated usher or staff member should be ready to address the situation discreetly and efficiently. Pre-established protocols for handling such incidents help maintain the solemnity and dignity of the service. For instance, if a guest is disruptive, a staff member might gently and quietly guide them to a less obtrusive location.
- Discrepancies in understanding or miscommunication between participants can also arise. Clear communication and pre-service briefings for all involved, from the clergy to the ushers, can alleviate such misunderstandings. This minimizes potential conflicts and ensures everyone is on the same page.
Issues Regarding the Selection Process, Baptist deacon ordination service outline
Addressing concerns of potential candidates is crucial for maintaining trust and harmony. Potential candidates may have reservations about the selection process, feeling they weren’t adequately considered or that the criteria weren’t clearly defined. A dedicated communication channel for addressing any questions or concerns before the selection process is finalized can be invaluable. A clear and concise explanation of the selection process and criteria can alleviate concerns and build trust.
- Providing a timeline for the selection process, coupled with a method for feedback, can be very helpful. This approach fosters transparency and ensures candidates are kept informed at every stage. Clear communication regarding the criteria and the decision-making process is essential.
- Potential candidates who feel their qualifications were overlooked can have their concerns addressed through a structured appeals process. This demonstrates a commitment to fairness and ensures every individual’s voice is heard.
Community Conflicts and their Management
Past disagreements or unresolved tensions within the community can occasionally impact the ordination service. Proactive steps to address existing conflicts before the service can be immensely helpful. Mediation or reconciliation efforts involving community leaders can create a more welcoming and harmonious atmosphere.
- If conflicts do arise during the service, a designated mediator or conflict resolution team should be readily available. Their role is to address issues discreetly and efficiently, preventing escalation and ensuring the service proceeds respectfully.
- Acknowledging and addressing any existing community conflicts proactively can help create a more positive and unified atmosphere. This might include addressing past grievances or tensions through dialogue and reconciliation efforts.
Handling Unexpected Situations
Preparation for unforeseen circumstances is vital. Having a contingency plan for various potential issues ensures the service maintains its dignity and purpose.
- A designated point person or team responsible for handling unexpected issues is crucial. They should be prepared to address any eventuality with composure and professionalism.
- Pre-established communication channels, such as a dedicated hotline or email address, will ensure swift and effective communication during unexpected situations.
Illustrations and Visual Aids: Baptist Deacon Ordination Service Outline
A powerful ordination ceremony relies not just on words, but on visuals that resonate with the heart and mind. Images can amplify the message, making the occasion memorable and the role of the deacon more tangible. Visual aids are essential to creating a meaningful and engaging experience for all participants.Visuals can be a powerful tool to connect with the audience, making abstract concepts more concrete.
They can help to communicate the profound significance of the ordination and the importance of the deacon’s role within the community. Consider images that evoke a sense of service, responsibility, and the deep impact that deacons can have on the lives of others.
Illustrative Images for Deacon’s Role
Images of hands reaching out, hands helping, or hands offering service can powerfully symbolize the deacon’s role in serving others. A depiction of a deacon actively participating in a community project, such as assisting at a food bank or visiting the sick, would effectively convey the tangible impact of their ministry. An image of a group of people receiving assistance, showing grateful expressions, can highlight the community’s appreciation for the deacon’s work.
A simple image of outstretched hands, one offering support to the other, could also capture the essence of support and service that is fundamental to the deacon’s role. An illustration of the deacon interacting with children, with warm smiles and genuine engagement, would create a strong visual statement of their compassionate and caring nature.
Visuals Highlighting Community Impact
Visual storytelling is a great way to demonstrate the community impact of the deacons. A montage of diverse people, benefiting from various programs or initiatives, can showcase the breadth of the deacons’ work. A series of before-and-after images of a community space transformed by the deacon’s efforts can powerfully communicate the tangible results of their service. A map highlighting the areas served by the deacons, or a photo of a well-attended church event, will show the deacon’s impact on the wider community.
Symbolic Images for Ordination Significance
Symbols are powerful tools to convey the significance of the ordination. An image of a dove, symbolizing the Holy Spirit, can be used to represent the divine call and blessing on the deacon’s service. Images of hands laying on the head, symbolizing the laying on of hands during the ordination, can represent the transfer of spiritual authority and responsibility.
Images of a bible, open to a relevant scripture, could emphasize the scriptural basis for the deacon’s role. Images of various community members participating in the ordination ceremony, showing their support and unity, can convey the collective affirmation of the deacon’s service.
Detailed Visual Elements for Ceremony Enhancement
The use of projected images or a slideshow with appropriate images can powerfully enhance the message during the ceremony. Images of past deacons, with brief biographical information, can inspire the new deacon and the congregation. A video montage of community members expressing gratitude for the service of deacons could be a truly impactful way to celebrate the role.
A backdrop with subtle but meaningful symbolism, such as a stylized representation of a church or a community, can set a tone for the ceremony. A consistent color scheme, for example, using the church’s colors, can help unify the visual elements and create a more impactful presentation. Animated graphics with relevant scripture verses can help to engage the congregation with the message of the ordination.