ex cathedra

Still trying to get used to a different way of being a pastor. So many meetings. 

Yet, I do not find myself wishing there weren't committee meetings—I am able to stay connected and interested in what is going on for much longer stretches. This new presence is highly ironic considering that most of the business is stuff I before would have loathed as just administration. The difference seems to be that I can perceive the humanity within the work we are doing—yes, a lot of the discussion is about process and procedure, but I can see the very real impact on very real lives that our business is making. As decisions are made, congregations move to a new place in their communal journey. As choices come and go, so, too, directions that a person’s life shift and alter. Realizing that someone’s life is being effected changes everything. It certainly makes you pay attention to what is going on.

So, immediately, I pause and seek forgiveness from those who got less than they needed previously. I forgot one of my own dictums—every word, every action carries weight because someone, including oneself, will be effected. I hope no real or lasting damage resulted.

Pastoral care in the role of presbyter is different, too. Very rarely will I or do I make my old-fashioned calls at someone’s home, or to a retirement community, or to a hospital. Instead, folks come to me--it will be lunch or a cup of coffee with someone who came to me. Sometimes it will be right there in the office—someone drops in to ask something, or confess something, or simply to be heard. But what happens is completely familiar—someone needs to be listened to, cared for, and offered the grace of knowing someone is willing to walk with them. Sometimes, wonderfully, there is no problem, just a connection—a we’re in this together moment. I am adjusting. 

I still believe with all my heart that what is needed most in spiritual encounters (which are everyday moments infused with an awareness that God’s there—hence, nearly every encounter) is simple presence. Be present with each other. Listen with your eyes; see with your ears (no, that’s not a typo—think about it). It does not matter if it’s an Administrative Commission meeting, a Council meeting, or a cup of coffee to shoot the breeze—be present—all else will fall into place. Awareness of each other, bringing the awareness of love—i.e., connection—means God is there. That awareness of God in the room is powerful, profound, and absolutely effective in producing necessary graces for any good relationship, no matter how momentary or lasting. 

I am sliding more easily into the different culture of California, and Sacramento, in particular. A gift of being raised in western North Carolina is that we were taught reticence—listen first, then talk, and (the lesson I did not heed near as much as I should have) speak minimally—only what is necessary. That lesson really helps out here. Californians, so far, have no problem stating how they feel about most anything. BLAP!—it’s out there, now deal with it. It means my well-honed Southern skill of reading between the lines in any conversation is not as necessary—nope, people will tell you what they think. So, before I share something I really believe, I consider the reactions to come before I open my mouth. That pause helps. I know the people will tell me what they think, I have to be sure I want to hear that. There won’t be the gentle, Well, bless your heart…when I say something really stupid. The stupidity will be right there for all to see. Also, it is interesting how people not affiliated with any form of church (about 86% of those I’ve encountered, according to a recent survey) respond when they find out what I do for a living. There’s a subtle slide down the bench away from me, or the more painful, …oh…—painful because it means that conversation is done. Oh, well…

Still, I am really enjoying immersing myself in this particular place.  There’s a nice rhythm to things. All the Asian, Hispanic, and other cultures creating a tapestry of flavor, insight, and perspective is fun. It forces a broadening of mind and outlook. I like the ease with which different pieces come together to make something new. 

And I can wear JEANS to work!