Minister Ordination Story

Minister Ordination Story

My name is Le’Var Franklin and this is my minister ordination story. I was born and raised in Chicago, IL. After attending high school at Whitney M. Young, I decided to pursue a career in engineering at Iowa State University. The first 2 years of college were tough for many reasons. It became abundantly clear that engineering wasn’t what God had in store for me. I cried out to the Lord and asked Him what He wanted for me as a major. He led me to Child, Adult, and Family Services. God spoke directly to me and said that I would use my education to further His Kingdom.

I would love to say that I was able to realize God’s vision for my life immediately after graduation, however, that was not the case. I worked in sales for 5 years. God blessed me with that gift, therefore, I was able to use that gift to help support my family. During each phase of my life, I’ve always felt a tug from the Lord telling me I’m not where He wants me to be. God began to show me His plan for my life in January 2010 when I became the Children’s Ministry Coordinator. I performed in that role for 7 years. I was led to get my Master’s Degree in Teaching Leadership from the University of Illinois – Springfield in 2011. At this point, I began working in my calling career-wise. I began assisting families who were affected by Child Protective Services to complete their necessary services to facilitate reuniting with their children. I also mentored youth and young adults while assisting them with their education and career goals.

I accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior and was baptized at an early age. I have always been involved in church; whether it was as a member or volunteering in various departments. God revealed to me in a dream that one day I would be preaching the gospel in a progressive ministry. This dream came after I was told by a pastor at a rough time in my life, that he sensed a strong calling of God in my life to preach His Word. When charged with finding minister training by my pastor, I was led to Christian Leaders Institute in my minister ordination story. Based on the education and training provided by CLI, I am confident that this is exactly where God wants me to be. I plan on using my training from CLI to pursue the calling of my Lord Jesus Christ. And to do His Will in whatever capacity He sees fit, whether it be at my local church or starting a new one.

The Deacon Minster Ordination with Christian Leaders Alliance has put me one step closer to achieving my goal of becoming an ordained Officiant Minster. Having this credential has already allowed me the opportunity to work with our staff of Deacons to assist in their week to week duties. I also plan on establishing weekly Study Groups to train more teachers, leaders, and ministers at our church. My ministry experience up to this point has been very fulfilling. I’ve seen children grow up before my eyes to love the Lord and have the heart to do His Will and work. I have also worked with the Men’s Ministry and spearheaded a Men’s Conference that saw men from all walks of life come into an intimate relationship with the Lord. I feel that my training with CLI will enhance what God has already put inside of me and will allow me to serve Him in a more productive manner. My prayer is that I remain sensitive to the Holy Spirit and continue to hear from the Lord and obey His commands even if they seem difficult.

Author: Henry Reyenga

Henry Reyenga is president of Christian Leaders Institute and Christian Leaders Alliance.