The Anti-Gospel of Jesus Christ

by Miko Bartek

An ordination is a ceremony that takes place within the context of the mass. The Prostration is when the candidates for ordination lie prone on the floor of the church, below the altar, in a sign of humility and obedience to Christ. It takes place between the Litany of Saints and the Laying On of Hands. One of the high points of any ordination.

We were there for a while, face down, where I got a good close look at the floor of the church. I was so happy in that moment. Everyone was there for Dan and I. Sister Katherine, my fifth grade teacher was there. Daiya, Mom and Dad were there. Dan’s family too. I was overcome with emotion. So much work, love and prayer had led to this moment.

Lying there, forehead on marble, I fleetingly thought about the contradiction revealed to me the week before. I dismissed it though. In this moment, it meant nothing to me. I had not accepted it yet. I had no idea what God wanted me to do about the contradiction. But I felt certain that I was doing what God wanted of me. I am now Father Miko.

I find meaning in life through service to God under the guidance of Jesus. But service to God, to me, meant service to all of God’s children. Service to humanity. Putting my faith into action.

A new assignment meant leaving the monastery. I was heartbroken at the prospect. And yet, leave I must. So I chose to be happy about it. Teaching high school would give me time to figure some things out. I needed the guidance of Christ at this point on life’s path.