Enjoying my work???

The question I am most asked by people is "How are you enjoying your work as Interim Transitional EP? My usual response has been, "Well I'm not sure if the word "enjoy" is what I would use."

Yesterday when asked that question by three long time friends I stopped after my usual response and said.. "No I want to restate my answer. There are some days when driving to the office I ask myself 'Why am I doing this?' However I do want to say that I am thoroughly enjoying my visits with the ministers across the Presbytery."

It is true, there are still a lot of ministers for me to visit. However, the many I have already visited have impressed me with their dedication, committment, deep faith and love of their work. There has been almost no complaining. Most are challeneged and fulfilled by what they are doing.

Perhaps my most significant observation is the great diversity and talent that we have in the Presbytery. This is not surprising to me. It only confirms my experience with clergy over my fifity-three years of ministry.

Another obseervation is that many of the ministers find support and insights from conversations and friendships with other clergy both within and without the Presbyterian Family. That sharing is very beneficial to all of those who get so involved.

When talking with a commitee last night it was obvious that it is not only clergy who gain from conversations with their peers but it works for everone. Support persons and support groups really do make a difference to our health, productivity and effectiveness.

Just a personal note: Without support groups thoughtout my life i don't believe I would have made it! In fact that is still a reality in my retirement years.

Comments

[Kristine]

Bob - Who have you visited and what have they said about the state of the Presbytery? And when will you come visit me? I look forward to your comments.

Kristine