A presbytery or other judicatory might want to consider having their own post-Christmas celebration for their clergy and families. The week following Christmas might be an opportunity for an evening of fun and caring that could express appreciation for the hard work that has just been concluded. Like the family fun evening suggested yesterday, the emphasis should be on fun and laughter.
If the presbytery is small enough that people know each other, it might be an opportunity for some “roasting” of fellow clergy. I have a clergy friend that often prepares a fun poem upon the retirement of a neighboring clergy. That might be a possibility. Find some of the musically inclined people and have them compose some new words to the carol tunes that are still ringing in our ears. Remember the “pumpkin carols” that someone composed building on Charlie Browns celebration of the coming of the great pumpkin. What about a carol? O Come, all ye clergy, tired and exhausted, O come ye O come ye to laugh once more. etc.
Create some bizarrely humorous job descriptions for fictitious openings and have people suggest who among them might be the perfect candidate. Have people bring gag gifts and as a person opens a gift, they must describe why this is the perfect gift to support them in their ministry. Read the description of a fictitious but familiar member type of member and ask who would like to trade for another member of their own church.
Encourage people to submit the best joke that they have heard and share them during the evening. If someone is good at comedy, have them compose a monologue on humorous insights on the ministry.
The goal is to have a fun evening in which people can interact, enjoy each other, and know that they and their ministry is appreciated. Have fun, get creative, and experience the joy of sharing with each other.
