Rev. Maya-Melé Okazaki's was ordained deacon in June this year, along with Allison Agius, Tianna Gocan, Janet Ternes and Gerard Phillips. On November 18 all of them were ordained priests in the Diocese of Huron.
By Rev. Maya-Melé Okazaki
Beyond those gently lit doors of a poised, ever-present Cathedral, a stately invitation is offered to the community, to the clergy, visitors and tonight, the ordinands!
The door was open and I stepped in, at the end of one journey and the beginning of another, into a redesigned Cathedral, and a beautifully written liturgy capable of being a warm embrace of truth, purpose and destiny.
All the worries, the internal questions, and the nervousness lifted in the realization that I am not alone, ever, even when I felt the most alone. At my reserved and appointed seat, amid a constant hustle and bustle of organization, my eyes witnessed the truth: not one step of this journey was taken by me alone, not one. There they were – those who had walked with me, with all of us. The bishop, colleagues, friends, co-workers, clergy, family, ministers, and yes, all of heaven and I knew… I will, with God’s help.
The prayer, with words forming our foundation, at the Baptismal Font, became the perfect launching pad for the night yet to unfold. My heart was also warmed by The Covenant words of servanthood that made clear the call and its promise of a Christ-centered life.
While the entire ceremonial service was deeply meaningful and unforgettable, there were two transcending moments.
The first moment when all things went silent, Bishop Todd gently rested his hands on my head and the beautiful tingling warmth resembling liquid oil, covered my head. A hand touched my right shoulder and another burst of warmth flowed over me. Many hands and much warmth continued until what I can only describe the feeling as being ‘Under the Wings of The Almighty’ and I knew…I will, with God’s help.
The individual vestments in all their glorious red fabric and ornate embroidery, hung in anticipation of their first appearance. There was an air of reverence and achievement lingering as we changed our garments and walked one by one to where the Bread and the Oil revealed their intent. When Bishop Todd took these well-used hands into his own and covered them in blessed oil, they felt heated, renewed and anointed for service; as the bread helped absorb the oil, the depth of ritual meaning consumed me in thought and prayerful reverence. My trembling hands were strengthened in their bond with my heart to serve. Peace and oneness filled my being and I knew… I will, with God’s help.
Our Ordination Night was beyond what I could have thought or imagined. Immersed in our Baptismal Vows; moved through the Ordination Rite; blessed and anointed into service unto Christ our King; presented to the Communities that surround us; and welcomed as brothers and sisters standing in accountability to each other and to the bishop.
We are one, together in Christ, and may we stand in assurance every moment of every day to say…
I will, with God’s help.
Rev. Maya-Melé Okazaki is Priest Assistant to the Priest-in-Charge of the Rondeau Bay-Transfiguration Partnership Ministry.
Photo: Rev. Maya-Melé Okazaki at the Service of Ordination, November 18, 2025.
Credit: Charlotte Poolton