“Other Models by Which to Live.”

last week, inspired by Carrie Mae Weems’ 1997 photo series, “Not Manet’s Type,” i pressed a room full of aspiring theologians and clergypersons to think about what their ministries could be and the impact they could make if they had “other models by which to live.” i invited them to reverse and resist the notion that in order to do ministry well, they have to diminish or erase themselves. what would our ministries be if we had models that invited us to bring the fullness of who we are to our vocations? and what if, in the absence of adequate models, we loved ourselves enough to look into our stories for inspiration? thank you to my forever loves, the Forum for Theological Exploration for the invitation to serve as the Theologian-in-Residence at this regional discernment retreat. twelve years after i sat in this same audience as a discerning Undergraduate Fellow. 

2018 has been replete with “full circle moments.” I can certainly add this to the list.  

“ I knew, not from memory, but from hope, that there were other models by which to live.” - Carrie Mae Weems

“If our current models are insufficient or lacking, we are free to look elsewhere.”   - Rev. Dr. Neichelle R. Guidry