Isn't life grad?

Turns out I've said nothing of my change in grad school plans.

I'm joining the circus!

Not really.*

I changed degree programs. This shouldn't be a shock to anyone who has ever met me. I change my mind more frequently than I change my socks, and I change my socks once every few days, at least.

Over the past month or so I decided to switch from an MA in general theological studies to an M.Div or Masters of Divinity degree. First, the difference between the two: the MA is more academically oriented, the M.Div more practical/ministerial.

Why the switch? Well, I'll tell you.

The MA is for a person who wants more education and wants to do thesis work. This path is most often trod by those who wish to pursue Ph.D work. I thought I wanted to do that, but being the extrovert that I am, I fear I will find that pursuit incredibly disengaging.

The M.Div is the degree path chosen by those who typically wish to be pastors. "So, do you want to be a pastor?" My instinctual answer is, "Not really." But that's because, as Krista brought to my attention, I have in mind the traditional preacher/head pastor figure-head, and that's not what I want. I enjoy playing a supporting role, especially with music and community building. So, I want to be pastoral, but I don't plan on being a Hybels or MacDonald or Osteen. (Though I wish I had that great smile!)

Why the switch? Part of it is a sense of calling. I believe the Lord led me to Judson, and to Northern, and now to this new program. I have this sense of peace about it, and also excitement. Those are both good things. Second, it's practical. It really opens up more doors to do an M.Div as far as potential career choices. I plan on being bi-vocational (work in a church and have a "normal" job), but if for whatever reason I did want to be a pastor in a church, the M.Div is the highest masters in that field, so it would give me many opportunities to serve. And many schools still use it as a pre-req for doctoral work, so I could still do that.

Practically speaking, what does all this mean?

1) I won't graduate til at least Dec. '10.
2) I'll have a lot more full-time classes to attend.
3) I'm looking at becoming a resident of Illinois.
4) I'm taking hand-outs if anyone wants to contribute cash, food or guitars.

I've still got decisions to make regarding classes, papers and more, but that's the background info for any later rants on the subject.



*Actually, some people actually did join the circus, so I guess maybe it's not a joking matter.

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