Some things I’ve learned as a priest

As I approach my retirement, I’ve been thinking about my ministry over the years. Here are some things I’ve learned (I shared this list on Facebook).

  • Love the people. They will return your love many times over. Love the people, even when they’re unlovable.
  •  Constantly improve your sermons. Give sermon writing the weight that it deserves. It will pay off.
  •  Visit. Visit old people in nursing homes. Visit families with noisy little kids. Visit lonely old men. Think what it would be like to be old and to have a visit from the priest.
  •  Keep grounded in scripture and prayer. Say Morning Prayer from the Prayer Book every morning. Memorize the Canticles. Memorize some Psalms. Memorize Compline.
  •  Honor the altar. Honor the sacraments. Honor the scripture.
  •  Make time to exercise. The other stuff can wait. Don’t squander your health.
  •  Don’t let the bastards grind you down. Difficult people will wear you out. Lean on your allies.
  •  Remember the theology you were taught. Build on the foundation.
  •  Stay connected but don’t let others define you.
  •  Find someone to talk to. A spiritual director will save your life.
  •  Read novels and poetry. You’ll be a better preacher for it.
  •  Remember your first ministry is to care for your family.
  •  Tithe. Give ten percent of your salary away. It will give you peace.
  •  Remember that your privilege as an ordained person comes with a spiritual danger. Be humble. Be yourself.
  •  Have a life outside the church. Don’t be a one-dimensional person.
  •  The symbolic power of your position is often greater than you realize. Remember that people project their ideals and their fears on you, for good and for ill. Don’t take it personally.
  • Learn how to say no. It’s a valuable skill.
  •  The church is not exempt from evil. In fact, the church is a very good place for evil to hide. Be careful.
  •  Love the people. They will return your love many times over. Love the people, even when they’re unlovable.