Ministering Ordination: Called to Serve
Ministering Ordination
My name is Nancy Drinkard, and I am receiving a ministering ordination. I am a retired computer programmer and am currently a caretaker for my aging mother and wife to my husband, Marshall. I live on a small acreage in rural Texas and enjoy the hobby farm life.
Family Foundation and Struggles
My parents were lovely, Godly people who modeled Jesus to me from a young age. I gave my heart to Jesus as a small child and enjoyed church services and Missionettes (a Christian youth program). I had a stable and content life until I went to high school. To “fit in” with the kids at school, I made several bad decisions and ended up graduating high school pregnant and alone.
The following years included many more bad decisions and failed relationships. By the time I was a young adult, I was a divorced single mother of two children. Two things helped pull me out of the mess I made. First, my father taught me to believe I could do anything I set my mind to do. Second, I had the knowledge that even in my darkness, Jesus loved me, and God never left me.
I went to computer school and enjoyed a career that provided a comfortable life for my children. I moved from Los Angeles to Nebraska, where I met my husband. Together we re-committed our lives to God. My children are now grown up, and I have four amazing grandchildren.
Bachelor of Divinity Degree Program with CLI and CLC
I started the Bachelor of Divinity degree program in the second semester in 2016 and completed my associate’s degree in March 2017. I made a conscious decision to make studies part of my daily life. Being able to determine the amount of time I devoted to my coursework encouraged me. I work at my own pace. This flexibility was a huge benefit to me. I completed some classes quickly, while others took more time.
Daily, I continued classes, working toward my bachelor’s degree until 2018 when I moved across the country to care for my aging mother. I was only able to complete a few classes in 2018. The beautiful thing about Christian Leaders College and the way it works is that I did not have to withdraw from the program and re-enter when I was able to restart classes. I was able to pick up where I left off without any hassle or repercussions. This versatility is truly a blessing for people who, like me, have life happening at the same time they are trying to reach a goal.
I quickly worked when life allowed but also slowed down when other things took priority. Although there are time limits for classes, they are very generous. Christian Leaders Institute understands that life happens and allows you to work the program at your own pace. I had more freedom to complete my studies and not drop out when things take an unexpected turn. I earned a Bachelor of Divinity degree from Christian Leaders College in October 2019.
Ministering Ordination with Christian Leaders Alliance
This Deacon Minister Ordination with Christian Leaders Alliance is a wonderful blessing. This ministering ordination is the next step in my ministry journey. My heart is with the hopeless; those who feel they don’t matter or they are too lost for God to love. At the current time, I have the privilege of helping my mother navigate the geriatric part of her life. Although it is not glamorous, I know that this is what God has called me to do for this season of my life. When time allows, I intend to work with an existing program for the underserved and tell them God’s plan of redemption. I know what it is like to be ashamed and afraid, but I also know what it is like to be confident and courageous. I desire to share God’s message with those who are hurting.
Author: Henry Reyenga
Henry Reyenga is president of Christian Leaders Institute and Christian Leaders Alliance.
