Former Selma resident Joan Schlesing will be ordained into Christian ministry at the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Selma at 6:30 p.m. July 11.

Schlesing lived in Selma for 16 years before moving to Lexington, Ky., in 2005 to attend Lexington Theological Seminary.

Schlesing graduated with a master's of divinity degree May 15 and was also the recipient of the A.J. Whitehouse Pastoral Care Award, presented at the seminary's annual awards ceremony May 14.

While living in Selma, Schlesing held several grant-funded positions, including program manager for Central Valley Children's Service Network in the Malaga area and childcare project coordinator for the California Council of Churches.

Her work with the Council of Churches included the Summer Nutrition and Activity Program for children and their families in Selma. Schlesing and her assistant, Bonnie Murray of Clovis, created, organized and led the five-week program, coordinating assistance from several Selma churches. The program brought nutritious meals, creative activities and services to children and their families in Selma.

While a seminarian, Schlesing worked for Kentucky Appalachian Ministries and also has been the student minister for the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Hazard, Ky. After graduating from seminary in May, she accepted a full-time position as hospice chaplain in Hazard with Hospice of the Bluegrass, Mountain Community.

She will also continue to serve as minister of the Christian Church in Hazard.

Her son Joe Schlesing graduated from Selma High School in 1995 and now resides in Madison, Wis.

Details: Selma First Christian Church, 896-2691.