Katie Ricks Approved for Ordination

We give thanks to God that Katie Ricks was approved for ordination by New Hope Presbytery on February 18. The passage of Amendment 10-A, now G-2.0104 in our Book of Order, made it possible for Katie to be ordained. Katie is a graduate of Columbia Theological Seminary who has been serving as an associate in ministry at the Church of the Reconciliation, a welcoming and affirming More Light church in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
 
Katie came out as a lesbian at Columbia Theological Seminary and served as co-chair of the Imago Dei Chapter on campus. After graduating from Columbia in 2002, she was called to serve as an Associate in Ministry at Church of the Reconciliation. As Katie stood before the New Hope Presbytery for her examination, the balcony of the church hosting the presbytery meeting was filled with members from Church of the Reconciliation.
 
Of this experience, Katie said: "It was one of the finest moments of being a part of the Presbyterian church. People were respectful and honest and compassionate. I am in complete awe....still humbled and overwhelmed.  Those who, as a matter of conscience, could not support my ordination were abundantly gracious and sought ways to make it an opportunity for people to say what they needed to say. It was a day like today... not so much the vote, as the conversation and presence... that made you think there is hope, for the PC(USA), that we can find a way to live into the unity Christ has already gifted to us once again."
 
This good news of Katie being approved for ordination lit up Facebook and twitter within moments of the decision. Katie's call, gifts and preparation for ministry are clear to those who have had the opportunity to meet her and learn of her ministry. We are grateful that the Church of the Reconciliation recognized Katie's gifts in 2002 and called her to serve in ministry with them. Now, ten years later, Katie can now be ordained to serve within the Presbyterian Church (USA) and continue her ministry at Church of the Reconciliation. We give thanks to God for another amazing grace story in the Church.

See Also:

• First lesbian approved to be ordained as a minister in Durham, The Daily Tar Heel