One Year of Ministry

 

Tuesday marked one year since I began my job at the church. You know me well enough to know that milestones are very meaningful to me, but this one reduced me to actual tears.

                December 8 (which was a Sunday last year) was the day the church voted to affirm me as the new Pastor of Congregational Care, and that day was so emotionally charged for me. I thought they would vote affirmatively, but I did not have the assurance that they would. The moment they brought the news, I started shaking and crying. (And then I had to get back up in front of the church!)

                I began work the very next day and really didn’t know where to begin. I spent those first few days doing a lot of planning, brainstorming, and dipping my toes cautiously in the waters of ministry, hoping I would do it right.

                And now it’s been a full year. Over twenty-two hundred hours. I’ve been sitting in reflection throughout the week, but I am still not sure I’ve fully absorbed all that this year has brought.

                I haven’t done everything perfectly. I have a list of things I want to do better next year. But today I want to celebrate the things that feel like the best of this first year.

I’ve learned so many names and life stories. Ryan and I had attended this church for two and a half years before I was hired, and I had learned a lot about the people who call it home, but we are a big (to me!) church and growing, so there are always names and stories to learn. I am grateful for all the new friends I’ve made over this past year, and I am really excited to learn even more!

I had a blast creating resources. I’ve made dozens of resources for our deacons and hospitality team and for the groups and classes I’ve taught over the year. I had so much fun making them, and I love it that they feel more equipped to do what they’re called to do in lay ministry and learning. I will keep right on creating and sharing!

I had the privilege of trying many things. In addition to all the things on my regular to-do list, I had the privilege of sharing messages, teaching studies and classes, helping with a baptism and baby dedication, and probably a few more things that aren’t coming to mind right now. Jonathan said he had never seen anyone do so many things in one year’s time, and that all I missed was a wedding and funeral!

The Lord gave me some great ideas. I had some creative ideas for several of my ministry areas and enjoyed implementing them. God’s nudges are the best!

I tried to care for all ages and stages. People think of the “care pastor” as just meeting with old people, but I wanted to reach out to those of all ages. I met with young and old alike and appreciate the chance to invest in all their lives.

I learned so much. I read a ton of books. I went to conferences and webinars. I took some classes. I had conversations with my coworkers and prayer warriors. I learned so many things that are so meaningful to me. Some things I learned from trial and error/success. Others I learned in a more academic way. But for all of it, I’m grateful I learned.

                I am profoundly grateful for this year. I am grateful for our congregation and their kindness to me. I am grateful for my fellow staff members and their warm welcome. And I am grateful for Ryan, who rolled with everything so beautifully. He was my number one support, standing beside me, praying over me, and carrying me when I was tired.

                I have no idea how many years God will allow me to serve, but I sure am glad for this first year!