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The Ordination Process
It was extremely important to me that the ordaining
body require something meaningful of me, something beyond my writing a check and filling out an online form, which I would
not have done. The ordination packet for AIWP (more than fifty pages) asks for fairly extensive documentation of one's qualifications
and experience, along with letters from three professional and educational references. In addition, a number of personal essays
are required.
Before deciding to submit documents to AIWP, I shared all the information in the ordination packet with
three people whose opinions and keen intellect I value, asking them to peruse the materials with a critical eye. These three
are my brother, attorney James W. Pierce; Thomas A. Jackson, Pastor Emeritus of Wake Forest Baptist Church; and Dr. H. Eugene
McLeod, retired theological librarian and church lay leader. When I received their endorsements, I undertook the required
discernment process and then applied for ordination. At that time, I also invited Tom Jackson and Gene McLeod to serve on
my Board of Directors, which they readily agreed to do. In late 2009, therapist and pastoral counselor, Suzanne Luper, asked
if she might join our Board. Suzanne is the Director of Triangle Pastoral Counseling in Raleigh. It is an honor to have these
outstanding companions by my side in this ministry.
Click for excerpts of endorsement letters to AIWP.
Click here to read what Board members have to say about Amy.
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