I am a child of the manse and a wife of the manse and so much of what you say rings true, even what you say about being told in your training not to have friends in the congregation. (Advice we have thoroughly ignored too, although I have heard another minister friend say he sometimes thinks that ministers’ friends in a congregation pay a price on occasion as there can be a bit of jealousy from others, especially those who were close friends of previous ministers…)

I’m also struck by the talk of masks (AG Feb 27th). I work in prison chaplaincy and the guys wear masks a lot – mainly of the “I’m hard” variety. It’s a survival thing of course, but isn’t it interesting that in this day and age even a secular body like the Scottish Prison Service employs clergy specifically (though this isn’t how it’s worded in the job description!) to be people before whom prisoners, and indeed staff, can take off their masks and be real. I wear my own far less than I used to and feel for those for whom their mask feels permanently welded on…

Thanks for posting your thoughts about your transition!

I was never a pastor, only an occasional leader, so I really haven’t got much insight there. I know people who may benefit from a little glimpse of wisdom from someone who’s been through this.

Love the cartoon!
And thanks for creating this opportunity for discussing these important and relevant topics.
Cheers! thebutler