“By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 13:35 It is striking to me how often members of a multiple staff team in a church have difficulty sharing their ministry in a manner that embodies this instruction of Jesus. Whether it is a clergy, an educator, or a church musician, most have experienced some sense of call that has led them into their profession. While it is good Presbyterian theology to acknowledge that all humans have a call from God, it is certainly true of those who work professionally for a church.
I don’t think clergy have enough opportunity to explore the changing nature of their call but I am certain that it is a rare occasion when an educator or musician is asked about their call. Wouldn’t it be good to have someone outside of the church staff to guide the staff in sharing and hearing about God’s call in the lives of each member of the staff? That conversation could follow the pattern laid out in yesterday’s blog for clergy colleagues.
I also think it would be beneficial for some of those conversations to take place with a blend of clergy, educators, and musicians from other churches. Again, the new mix changes the dynamics and can lift up refreshing perspectives. A variety of such conversations across the presbytery or ecumenically could help build a sense of shared community among the churches.
Within the context of Christian ministry, we are called to be part of the one Body of Christ. Far too often we find ourselves living in silos of ministry cut off from similar efforts by our colleagues. Picture the impact on the world if they could witness the full demonstration of our loving one another as Jesus commanded us.
