Tuesday, April 24, 2007

Student Pastorate Advice

I got a phone call last week from my District Superintendent informing me that Bishop Whitaker has approved for me to start at my first appointment on May 1, to be announced at that church last Sunday morning. I am, of course, thrilled at this new opportunity, and I shall bear in mind the wise advice that my colleagues gave to me a couple of weeks ago on the subject.

One of the challenges may be the lofty title of Pastor's Wife. Churches sometimes see this as a formal office with particular responsibilities, such as the automatic presidency of the congregation's chapter of United Methodist Women. Katherine, largely involved in homeless ministries, does not readily fit into this traditional role. And as I have told her, there is no legitimate demand that she do so.

But a greater concern is Hyzenthlay. As you know, many traditionally-oriented churches have predefined concepts of the role of Pastor's Rabbit. A pastor's bunny may feel great strain to engage in all of the ministries that the previous pastor's rabbit engaged in, and with the same excellence. Verily, it can be a great burden to live in public, always under the watchful eyes of the congregation as the Pastor's Rabbit.

What advice would you like to pass on to Hyzenthlay as she makes this transition?

11 comments:

Anonymous said...

When someone invites you to supper, make sure you aren't supper.

Tim Sisk

Andrew Conard said...

John - Having never owned a rabbit, I have no advice for Hyzenthlay. However I appreciate the Watership Down reference, and your willingness to keep things light. It is a reminder not to take myself too seriously. Thanks!

Anonymous said...

Fully acknowledging that Tim Sisk beat me to the (buffet?!!) line, I only had two words: Hasenfeffer and Potluck!

Humorously,
Joseph

David said...

Do not eat the prized plants of the congregation, unless they are already serving as false idols, or sacred cows (as roses might be in some congregations).

Be sure to roam the property and know that this creation was made for you too.

Peace,
DC

Art said...

Seriously, what Tim said. I have seen rabbit served at a United Methodist church dinner - not a joke!

Anonymous said...

No matter what any one says, Hyzenthlay does not have to play the organ or the piano at church (despite what this 'pastor's 'pet does.).

However, to appease the crowds for a time, Hyzenthlay may want to perform the Velveteen Rabbit for the children at holiday time.

Keith H. McIlwain said...

Be yourself and don't let them dress you up against your will at Easter.

Keith H. McIlwain said...

The same thing goes for Hyzenthlay.

John said...

Good, 'cause that bunny suit costs a lot to dryclean.

Theresa Coleman said...

Well, what ever it is that she is called to do, she needs to hop to it. As it is, I think she has no other choice than to hop, given her nature.

Michael said...

If the water gets too hot, GET OUT OF THE POT!!!