“It was a Good Day”

It was all good, just a year ago.

This riff on the lyric from Ice Cube’s hit song, “It was a Good Day” anchors my reflection for this week. One year ago, today, we were on the eve of our Pastoral Installation. What a momentous occasion in the life of the church. The banquet was incredible, the service of Installation was extraordinary, and Sunday’s worship was inspiring.

I know Dr. Simpson preached in the sermon at the service of Installation that the relationship between Pastor and people is not a marriage, as often cited, but I cannot help but compare the feelings of anticipation and experience of Installation weekend to Joseph and my wedding ceremony.

In the days leading to our wedding, though I was cool on the outside, I was so nervous on the inside. The same was true for Installation weekend. I don’t know why I was nervous; we had already been doing ministry together for six months. Still, the butterflies in my stomach abounded...

And just like our wedding day was a blur, there are details that I only remember because of photos, video, and the stories of others. But what I do remember is the immense love, joy, and excitement I felt being surrounded by a living cloud of witnesses--our church family, my family, friends, mentors, colleagues, and the larger community. I also remember an anxiety that lingered because what we were formally embarking on as pastor and people would have great significance In the community and the Kingdom.

Even as I reflect, I continue to be grateful to Sis. Jackie Johnson, the entire Pastoral Installation Committee, and everyone who assisted in the planning and execution of such a spectacular weekend to the glory of God!

Growing in Christ

Pastor Donna Olivia Owusu-Ansah