Stern ordained in Otisfield

EAST OTISFIELD — March 18 was a beautiful day for an ordination with clear skies and warm temperatures. At the East Otisfield Free Baptist Church, preparations for the ordination of Pastor Genise Stern had been underway for months and everything was ready. This is the first ordination in the American Baptist Churches of Maine, West Area Association, in 10 years.

The choir, under the direction of Priscilla Delehanty, sang "Spirit of the Living God" and Chaplain Patricia Haggerty welcomed the more than 100 attendees and led the call to worship. A Prayer of Invocation by Reverend Barbara Adlard was followed by a traditional chant of the Ashrei, Psalm 145, led by Rabbi Hillel Katzir of Temple Shalom.

Rabbi Katzir spoke of Genise as a student, friend and teacher. As he chanted in Hebrew, the congregation silently read the English translation.

The sermon was delivered by Reverend Dr. Glenn Miller.

The congregation and choir sang "On Eagle's Wings." Deborah Dyer, church clerk, formally presented Genise Stern as the candidate for ordination. Reverend Susan Crane delivered the charge to the candidate and congregation. The vows of ordination were led by Reverend Dr. Alfred Fletcher.

Moderator David Watson presented the Certificate of Ordination to Reverend Genise Stern. A liturgical dance to the music of "Sweet, Sweet Spirit" was performed by Laura Gouin.