Let's start with the Who? I am Karsten Tyson, son of Beverly and Robert with several nicknames (KT, K-Rock, Profe, Stena, Stenski and Karstenski) I have been adopted into the family of God. I have recently acknowledged the call of God in my life to be of service to his holy, catholic and apostolic Church. I grew up in the Missionary Baptist Church with very devout grandparents on both sides. I am now an Episcopalian. The Baptist Church will always have a special place in my heart, but the liturgy and Mass have won me over. We can thank my parents for sending me to Catholic School. Teaching at an Episcopal School doesn't help either.
What?: Simply put, I have been called into ministry to be of service in God's Holy Church. I have finally embraced my calling and told God that I would do it.
Where?: I am a true southern gentleman (Bow ties and seersuckers), what would I do outside of the land flowing with sweet tea and honey. But more specifically, I am located in Raleigh, North Carolina.
When?: Ever since young adulthood, I have sensed some purpose beyond myself to serve in ministry. I had fun along the way, doing things that young people do. I have known that there was some type of calling on my life even while I was a deeply devout Baptist. I would simply pretend that it didn't exist, ignore it, or occupy myself with other things. But finally, I yielded myself to God, realizing that I am not perfect but willing to be used by him for the advancement of his Kingdom. I had this epiphany on September 22, 2010 at 6:57 am, while brushing my teeth.
When?: As soon as I speak with my Rector, I will begin discernment into the Diaconate. I have talked with my school Chaplains at length, as well as another priest in my diocese.
How?: "I will, with God's help," and through the boldness and authority of the Holy Spirit, will I set out to do what God is calling me to do.
Why?: Because God loves me, and I love him. In keeping with the opening lines of the Baptist Church Covenant, which states; Having been led as we believe by the Spirit of God, to receive the Lord Jesus Christ as our Saviour, and on the profession of our faith, having been baptized in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, do most solemnly and joyfully enter into covenant one with another, as one body in Christ. This is the reason I have reached this junction in my life.
Thanks be to God!
