Wednesday, 24 September 2008

20(ish) thing you've always wanted to ask a minister

Following on from Monday's post, this is the list if questions I cam up with. Some were silly, some serious and some I knew the answer already. All of them were to discover the type of minister my supervisor is and to see it I'd be able to work with them over the new few months.

Why is the dog collar worn?
Historically - don't know. Now, a sort of uniform.
Can auxiliary Ministers take the sacraments?
Yes.
Why can only Ministers perform the sacraments?
Yes.
What sets a reader apart from someone else who may lead worship?
They've undergone selection and are officially set apart as a reader.
How, apart from performing the sacraments, does the role of Deacon differ from Minister?
They don't "lead" the congregation and are support for both the minister and the parish.
How do you deal with strained silence when asked what you do for a living by someone who's just met you?
Doesn't happen very often, as most people know what I do
When first following your call, how did those around you react?
Not that surprised, as I'm the son-of-the-manse. Some friends did drift away, though.
Who ministers to the ministers?
Officially, no-one. Unofficially; their family, friends and congregation
Should creationism be taught in science classes?
No.
What do you say to people that ask "If your God is so loving and powerful, why does He let so many bad things happen"?
God gave people free-will.
How do you get the local parish to care about the church?
Make it a hub for the community - it's where guides, scouts, mothers and toddlers etc meet.
How do explain ministry isn't a choice, but a call?
You can't, but with free-will, it can be ignored.
How do you deal with a congregation which will not be involved in services, outreach work etc- they are quite happy to sit and let the minister do everything?
Work on them and chip away over the years.
Do you get time off for good behaviour?
No
How does ministry affect your relationships?
It's harder to stay in touch with friends, as ministry is very tying at weekends and evenings, but other relationships come from it.
How do you ensure you have time for yourself, interests, friends and family?
Have an answering machine. Make sure the office is "closed" sometimes.
How do you restore your soul, especially after a bad day?
Spending time with family and friends.
What's your take on people who say Harry Potter is the work of Satan?
Stupid

The bold is my questions; plain text the synopsis of my supervisor's answers. I like his attitude and know I'll be able to work well with him now.

1 comment:

  1. Hi there ... thanks for the blog comment, I wish you every blessing as you explore your call to ministry.

    ReplyDelete

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