“It’s the Wednesday of your seminary life!” So said a matushka friend of mine when she dropped by at the bookstore some months back. Indeed, I am halfway through my five-year program at Jordanville. When I first started, I was contemplating only staying here for a couple of years, trying to test the waters and figuring out my true vocation in life. But soon after I became a part of the seminary, it had become a part of my life, shaping my identity and molding my character in unexpected ways. Honestly, I felt like my life was actually beginning. Of course, not everything is perfect; I have my share of daily annoyances. It’s still my home.
What shall I do after I graduate? Who will I marry (or Should I become a monk)? Where shall I live? These questions come up again and again for seminarians. People ask us, and we ask ourselves. A few lucky ones have at least two of the three items figured out by the time they reach fourth or fifth year. Others can end up drifting a little bit. It’s like any other college in that sense.
But time and again we all need to remind ourselves that we don’t need to fret about such questions, as worrying can neither add a few inches to our height (as much as I would like that) nor by taking thought can we turn one hair white or black. The lesson repeated to us again and again is that we must *seek first the kingdom of God*. Abraham, Moses, the Holy Apostles, and the rest were all called by God and put places where they didn’t expect, but they kept trusting in His providence. Because of their faith, they were able to accomplish amazing deeds.
The first half of seminary has been amazing. With God’s help I’ll be here for the second half. I can’t wait for what’s next.
What shall I do after I graduate? Who will I marry (or Should I become a monk)? Where shall I live? These questions come up again and again for seminarians. People ask us, and we ask ourselves. A few lucky ones have at least two of the three items figured out by the time they reach fourth or fifth year. Others can end up drifting a little bit. It’s like any other college in that sense.
But time and again we all need to remind ourselves that we don’t need to fret about such questions, as worrying can neither add a few inches to our height (as much as I would like that) nor by taking thought can we turn one hair white or black. The lesson repeated to us again and again is that we must *seek first the kingdom of God*. Abraham, Moses, the Holy Apostles, and the rest were all called by God and put places where they didn’t expect, but they kept trusting in His providence. Because of their faith, they were able to accomplish amazing deeds.
The first half of seminary has been amazing. With God’s help I’ll be here for the second half. I can’t wait for what’s next.