On Strike

Every so often a story will appear about a mom who has decided to go on strike because she is underappreciated, and extremely underpaid. The article then makes a tabulation of all of the jobs that the mom does in the course of a week (chauffeur, housekeeper, tutor, cook, etc) and the cost of hiring out all of those positions is overwhelming! One study I don't think I've ever seen researched is to calculate the cost to replace a pastor who might consider going on strike. Their roles are many, and none are simple tasks!

I know I'm going to leave off some tasks, but this is a start (in no particular order):

Counselor

Judge/Mediator

Accountant

Office Manager

Property Manager

Fiscal Officer

Teacher

Consultant

Peace Officer

Computer Technologist

Visual Aids Specialist

Motivational Speaker

Social Worker

Event Planner

Wine Steward

Hospital Chaplain

Sales/Marketing

Vision planning

Writer (technical and creative)

Editor

Volunteer Coordinator

Student

Hospitality Agent

Juggler

Food Service Worker/Distribution

Logistic

Carpenter/Mason

Cheerleader

Forecaster

Spiritual Advisor

Healer

Translator/Interpreter

Security Officer

Shepherd
- And what is truly imposing, is that we too are all called to be ministers!?!

My prayer for the congregation?

Dear God, We indeed must rely on you if we are to try to fulfill your call to minister to each other and to the earth. One human cannot possibly assuage the many pleas for aide all by themselves. We are thankful for those who have followed a career in ministry. Forgive us when we ask too much of one person to complete and create unfair expectations. Gracious God, you have provided a community of individuals with many gifts and talents. Help us piece together a mosaic of skills and artistry to create an environment of learning, working, sharing and speaking of your love. One person can make a significant contribution, but together we can become a force of change. We seek your help as we minister to the world. Amen