Leslye Henderson

September 17, 2014
What it is like being a family member of someone going through formation
Submitted by Leslye Henderson

My husband, Dennis Henderson, is just over three years into a six-year program of formation to become an ordained deacon in the Catholic Church.

I liken the whole experience to being on a road trip to an exciting destination. While I admit I felt some fear and trepidation upon setting out for this unknown territory, points of interest along the way have provided me moments of joy and hope for the future. While it was my husband who initially felt the pull to travel to this unique place, as his travel companion, I get to see the same beautiful sights and and meet the same wonderful people.

Several miles into the trip, I began to realize a calling of my own. Serving as the support person for those times when the map is hard to read or the driver gets tired is very fulfilling. I am there to listen, encourage, or make suggestions when the road is bumpy or the signpost confusing. Sometimes I am simply a quiet presence at a rest stop. Attending the required training courses for the journey has provided me opportunities for personal reflection, increased knowledge about the Catholic religion, and growth in my faith.

I am inspired when each day Dennis prays for direction, records our experiences in a journal, listens to praise and worship songs to stay alert, and reads Scripture to be enlightened and keep us on the right path. I am truly thankful to our Lord God for this journey. I praise him and look forward to serving his people.