Doing things differently

Sunday was a funny day. Firstly, I was leading worship somewhere I had not even been to before. Then, the pressure of a friend and peer being in the congregation (who had not previously heard me preach). Add to that a church building where the pulpit is in a corner, with the congregation in the 'arms' of the church (and one of the 3 balconies!). I think I may have thrown the congregation somewhat.

It started with me asking the Session Clerk, who'd already told me they would led me into the church, if it was them doing the welcome and intimations. This resulted in a startled look and a reply of "the minister usually does them." Taking a deep breath, and being as diplomatic as possible, I explained I didn't feel it was appropriate for me, as a guest and visitor, to welcome the congregation. And I wouldn't know what intimations needed to be announced/emphasised, against those which are there to be read. This resulted in someone else in the congregation leading me in. I'm glad I asked, or I would have walked in at the back of the Session Clerk and sat down in expectation!

Then, I did not use the pulpit for most of the service, only heading there for the sermon. I genuinely cannot remember a time when I have seen a minister take the whole service ('normal, bog-standard' Sunday service) in its entirety from the pulpit. I think that caused a bit of confusion, but it is the 'norm' most places and no one thought to advise me that was the custom and practise there!

Other than that, everything seemed to go reasonably smoothly. As usual, especially in an unfamiliar place, I managed to give off a calm, relaxed persona. The person who did the welcome etc even commented before we went in on it. Oh, if only he knew! I even, when delivering the sermon, manage to talk around the church, which, given its layout, really is no mean feat.

The congregation, generally, seemed pleased. I suspect, like many churches, some prefer their 'own' minister. My friend's children told me I have a praying voice. Oh dear, no ones pointed that out before. Must try harder to sound like me - but still have decent pace and diction and tone etc. I did tell them nerves don't help and I go into very formal when they really kick in.

So, a new and different experience for all concerned. All good and useful. It does also remind me of how much I don't know, but as a friend used to say "wisest is she who knows what she does not know." I'm just pleased God's got my back, 'cause I definitely couldn't do this without him.