I’m not usually one who gets surprised but this past week, I saw a friend from my long distant past. Funny thing is, I haven’t seen him in almost 10 years.

His back was to me so I didn’t immediately recognize him. I looked over his way and practically shrieked his name. I quickly embraced my good friend and hugged him for what seemed like minutes. I rarely hug people but this was a special reunion. Maybe this will take some explaining.

Have y’all ever heard of Clinical Pastoral Education? No? Well, it’s an extremely intense training with a small group of people (4-5). Each person works as a chaplain intern. When a significant conversation occurs, a report and analysis of the conversation is completed. Each person of the group will help each other learn about themselves by reading the report. This process strengthens you as a chaplain and person.

The truth will set you free. True. The truth also can be quite painful once hidden parts of you are revealed. It took the love of my good friend to encourage me to take a look at the painful Truth’s kept hidden. He helped me realize that women can do anything they put their minds to do. I helped him as he shared the challenges of being an openly gay man in the ministry.

We became great friends. After the training was complete 10 or so years ago, we went our separate ways. I didn’t see him again until this week. Neither of us are chaplains anymore but the experience 10 years ago created a strong bond.

Be strong. Be you. Share love. Those are definitely common threads in friendship, chaplaincy, and the server life.

Thank you my friend!