I'm a retired lay ecclesial minister having served in three New England Dioceses as a Faith Formation Director for Children and Youth, and their families; most recently, I served the last 20 years of my career as a Pastoral Associate. In that role, I was fortunate to be engaged with parish and diocesan leadership to assist with parish mergers - to ease the transition at times of a closure but to highlight the creation of something new. I've been engaged with families at the loss of a loved one assisting with wake services, funeral plans and commitals - often presiding at aspects of the ritual. These are just some of the highlights and experiences of a life in ministry.