Whether with your email colleagues or with some group within the church, it is worthwhile to use the same categories as listed in Clergy Drop Out (7) to examine the role of expectations from a totally different perspective. That is, what are your expectations with respect to the ruling board (session in my case). While organizational development people suggest that we make such expectations clear, sort of a job description, some of our frustration comes from unexamined expectations.
I will be speaking as a Presbyterian but other groups can translate into their own terminology. Using the four categories previously mentioned, try to make a list of at least four expectations in each category. What are the routine expectations that you hold for elders who are serving on your session. For example, you expect them to be regular in their attendance at the meetings. Name at least four other types of expectations in this category of the routine.
Having identified and discussed these, move on to the next category. What are some vocationally specific expectations for elders actively serving on the session. Are they expected to share in the celebration of communion, accompany a pastor in home visits, etc. Identify at least four or more expectations beyond what I have mentioned. Are there some very real but unspoken expectations from you as a pastor? Do you expect them to pledge financial support of the congregation, etc.?
In the third category, what are some demanding but finally satisfying expectations. Perhaps you expect them to be a mentor to a confirmand or play a particular role at funerals, etc. Try to name at least four and possibly more expectations. Maybe even identify some expectations that you would like to assume but haven’t voiced.
The fourth category, that of unreasonable expectations, may be more difficult but is quite important when we are feeling the pressure of expectations. What is an unreasonable expectation of an elder that should be identified and disavowed? Are they expected to be more pious than other members, for example?
Try to identify at least four.
Your list would be a valuable list to share and discuss with your session. It could be a part of a retreat where you discussed expectations for both the pastor and elders.
