Before starting as a Candidate in Training for Ministry (FTWS), I worked for nearly three years as a Parish Assistant at a linked charge, close to where I belong. I loved that role and I loved the people, so moving on and stepping into the world of training was more challenging than I expected. Leaving a congregation and community to which I had grown close, while still living nearby, was a challenge but I knew that God was leading me into the next stage of my journey.
My first year as a Candidate was full of change and adjustment. It took time to grow into this new role, and to really accept God’s call to ministry for myself. I was helped by many people who encouraged me to move forward with confidence. Rev. Doug Gay, one of my lecturers at Glasgow University, gave me the space to ask questions and helped me to embrace the calling God had placed on my life. I was also blessed with wise supervisors. who reminded me often to “just be yourself.” That has been amazing advice, and it is something I have tried to carry with me every step of the journey.
Life also brought challenges of a different kind. Within the space of just three months, I lost my 42-year-old best friend, my 31-year-old cousin in Canada, and my 64-year-old dad, all suddenly. Taking each of their funerals was incredibly hard, but I was grateful to be able to honour their lives in that way. Those months taught me more about God’s strength, than any other season in my life. Through the grief, I experienced His sustaining power, and I found out repeatedly, that He equips us to do what we never imagine we could do.
Through all of this, I was surrounded by support. The Church of Scotland training team showed great care, my supervisors stood alongside me with wisdom and kindness, and my fellow candidates at Glasgow were a constant encouragement. Having friends who understand the journey makes such a difference, and reminds me that ministry is always something we share together.
Looking back, I can see clearly that God has provided more than enough bread for the journey. Sometimes that provision came through a kind word, sometimes through the prayers of others, and often through the comfort of His presence.
As I prepare to step into my first charge, I do so with confidence that the God who has led me this far, will continue to lead me. I very much look forward to many new opportunities to see God at work. What matters the most to me is staying close to Christ, the Bread of Life, and trusting that He will always give me what is needed for each day.
I am so thankful for the life that God has given me. I am so blessed to know the love of the Lord Jesus, who has carried me, called me, and continues to guide me. My prayer is that my life and ministry would reflect that love, for God and for others, in all that lies ahead.
By Chris Barlas
