Now, here is where it could get fun. Form a pastoral support task force, or even take some time as part of the agenda of your session meeting and ask them to make their own list of what they believe are some of the most meaningful parts of being an ordained minister and a separate list of what they think might be parts of the ministry that are not fulfilling or satisfying. They should do it with you in mind, knowing who you are and what your personality is. Again, your ministry is incarnated in your own personality. I happen to be fairly good at administration but I do not find as much satisfaction in administration as some of my colleagues. It is not right or wrong but simply part of our personalities. A major challenge of ministry is that what often gives us great satisfaction is not something we can talk about with others. I have had people entrust me with secrets that could destroy them professionally or wreck their marriage if it were exposed . At such times I gave thanks to God that I could be present to them and help them make a healthy decision.
Once your group has made their list, then talk through their lists and share with them what was on your list. There will be a couple of results from such an experience. First, you will discover some aspects of ministry from their perspective that once they have named it you will agree with. Second, they will grow in their appreciation for the broader dimension of your ministry. Third, as you discuss it together, you may discover ways to enhance the satisfying parts and lessen the impact of the less than satisfying but necessary aspects of your ministry. Fourth, just hearing others appreciate what you do can have a strong supportive effect.
