Miller

The Episcopal Diocese of Central Florida celebrated the ordination of eight deacons raised up from congregations inside and outside of the diocese on Sept. 8, 2018 at The Cathedral Church of Saint Luke in Orlando. The Central Florida Episcopalian caught up with one of those deacons, Caroline Miller, to see how she is doing in her new role with the Church. Miller and The Rev. Robert Osborne are set to be ordained to the priesthood on Saturday, March 23, at Grace Episcopal Church in Ocala.

What is your current title right now at Grace Episcopal?
I am the associate rector at Grace.

How long you have been in that position?
As of March 1, I will have been here for six months.

Prior to Grace Episcopal, how long did you serve the Diocese of Central Florida?
I served in the diocesan office for three years as Canon (for Vocations) (Justin) Holcomb’s executive assistant.

How have things been going for you in your new role at Grace?
Things have been going well! Entering into an ordained position for the first time is a challenge, but the folks at Grace have made it so much easier. They are warm, gracious, and supportive. It has been a joy to learn and serve here.

What have you found to be the biggest challenge in your new calling and how are you working through it?
The biggest challenge is the change in mindset and identity that comes with ordination. My natural inclination is to find ways to serve behind the scenes. While there is still plenty to do behind the scenes as a clergyperson, you can’t stay back there all the time! I am learning to step into the leadership role the church has given me. The biggest help with that is being part of such a supportive team. Father Jonathan (French), Deacon Mary (Delancey) and the rest of the staff have been great. I can’t imagine what it would have been like to make this transition into ordained life without them!

What kind of goals do you have for the church going forward?
Grace is actively working toward growth. My goal is to facilitate that by strengthening various ministries and supporting Father Jonathan, our rector, in his leadership of the church. In addition, while entering ordained ministry is a clear transition for me, having an associate rector is a transition for the church. I aim to help Grace adjust to having more clergy on staff. Father Jonathan’s upcoming sabbatical will be an exciting opportunity for us all to grow together!