The Rev. Dr. Karyn L. Wiseman
The following statements come from Pr. Karyn’s resumé. They are a wonderful window into her beliefs and her calling as a child of God.
CALLING: I believe that I was called into something special by God when I was about 9 or 10 years old. I did not understand it. I just knew God had something for me to say about grace and love. I was called again when I was 25 and ran from that call due to my sexuality. I was called once more when I was 31 and finally answered. I was called to get a PhD and teach seminary at the age of 39. I was called to change denominations at age 53. And I have felt called to serve the people of Gloria Dei Church for 7 years in my late 50s and early 60s. So I have been called repeatedly and in different ways over my lifetime.
Which “call” shall I use to define my calling? All of them, I believe. I would not be where I am today if not for the variety of calls I have received throughout my life. All of the experiences, interactions, relationships, life choices, and ministry options helped me to answer my various callings and to then become the person, pastor, preacher, and teacher that I am today. I am blessed by all of these moments in my life – by all of these callings.
CONVICTIONS: The core text that I use as a credo for my life is Micah 6:8 – “what does the Lord require of you, to act justly, love kindness, and walk humbly with God.” This is a framework that makes me live in the world in a particular manner. It is a theological awareness of my covenant with God - from God to me and from me to God and the world. I choose to live out of that covenant.
In all that I do, I try to live this way. Every way I interact with others I try to reflect this. I fail at times, just as we all fail, but it is my core goal and credo for life and it reminds me daily of who and whose I am called to be. These words are so powerful for me that I had them tattooed on my right inner forearm so that they guide me every day.
PERSONAL MINISTRY STATEMENT: Finding one’s calling and living fully into it is powerful and personal. I love to preach and teach in ways that embolden people to understand the gospel and live their faith more fully. When I make connections with people to encourage, comfort, or challenge them, I find great joy in that.
