These words of wisdom are from Gloria Pulido, former associate dean of admissions for San Francisco Theological Seminary, now a pastor herself. They were originally addressed to classes of seminary students she had personally admitted, but they will be valuable to any seminary student preparing for vocational ministry.

A Twelve-Point Charge to Seminary Students

Here is my charge to you (and not in any particular order):

1. Remember that our Lord led you to this place--to study and broaden your theological perspective, to think critically, and to learn more about yourself. This is a time for personal, spiritual and intellectual growth which will prepare you for God's ministry. You will be challenged and affirmed. Trust the process.
   
2. Your pastor and members of your congregation, your family and friends believe in you. I read their reference letters about you. They are praying for you.
   
3. Spend time with God and meditate in God's Word. Stay connected because it is the Holy Spirit that will sustain you. Learn to listen to God's leading. SFTS has spirituality courses available for this purpose.
   
4. Understand the difference between care-giving and co-dependency.
   
5. Learn to say no. Self-care and family is important for your personal nurture. Taking a Sabbath is the Third Commandment.
   
6. Go the extra mile for Jesus--the Spirit will sustain you during those times of need.
   
7. Pray for wisdom to know when to say no and when to go that extra mile for someone.
   
8. Take time to do your personal work before you get ordained. Lloyd Center is a great opportunity.
   
9. Don't forget to worship, sing, pray, dine and play together--this builds the community of faith. Chapel is a good place to start.
   
10. I think the key ingredient for Christ's ministry is to have a passion for Christ (based on John 21). Keep that passion alive--otherwise, ministry will become just another job. Remember ministry is not a profession, but a special call to do God's work.
    
11. Try to stay out of debt. If you have issues of money work it out now, otherwise you'll bring these issues to your ministry.
    
12. Whether you get ordained or not, always remember you are part of the mission of the Church of Jesus Christ--to share the gospel of hope, of peace, of salvation (wholeness), of redemption (released from the past), of God's overwhelming love, of abundance, of healing, etc.

Take care and may our Lord continue to affirm you as God's beloved servant-leader.

Blessings in Christ Jesus,
Gloria

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