I am theologically trained, ordained, have been a parish minister, a chaplain to students at a University, a non-military chaplain for the us air force, a theological professor, a missionary--all of which flows from my clerical credentials..

Why do you ask?

I hadn't noticed anyone on DU identify themselves as clergy (of course most posters professions/vocations are unknown to me) but thought we must have at least a few here.

There are many in my family. My dad, both grandfathers, a sister, and too many aunts/uncles/cousins and ancestors to count easily. My father told me he felt the calling at the age of ten.

If you don't mind a follow-up, do you have any close relatives who are also ordained or have been through seminary? Do you mind saying when/how/why you chose this path?

Peace...

I think some deacons are ordained and some are lay people depending on the denomination/tradition.

hrmjustin is a very congenial poster, plays the role of peacemaker from time to time, I've noticed.

from time to time. It is a lay position in the Episcopal church.

We were raised Presbyterian but my sister was drawn to the Episcopal denomination. She's a priest now and the rector of her church.

And you're welcome!

I wish more denominations would do that.

Do you want or intend to become ordained at some point?

during services I feel I should be ordained. Many others in my parish feel the same way about themselves. I did not mean to give the impression I was ordained. With the role of sub-deacon you get to play dress-up and stand at the altar and hold the altar book and assist at the altar during the canon of the mass.

haven't been to seminary that might mean you cannot be ordained. Certainly there are 'preachers' who have not been educated in theology and it shows.

I regret not accepting a scholarship to a Catholic university who unexpectedly sought me out seeing my SAT and ACT scores as I began college. Theology was a required course. But I was disinterested in religious instruction of any kind.

I would have been better off there to make use of my natural abilities, as I fit in perfectly with their program. They offered a full scholarship, room and board for four years. Choices...