[Magdalen] just a note

[Roger Stokes]

I think you did the right thing.  We are human but our emotions 
frequently need to be held in check if we are to minister effectively - 
and then expressed in private for our own well-being. I think this can 
be especially hard for those of us who are male. We are meant to be 
strong and unemotional, to which you may wish to add a monosyllabic 
response.

I think that elderly gentleman showed courage in his action and his 
words.  You have been there for that congregation through a very 
difficult time and I would agree with Dawn at wanting to shout at God 
about your medical condition.

Roger

On 14/09/2014 23:14, Jon Egger wrote:
> Listmates,
>
> I have cut back my schedule to one service a Sunday due to my s
> ​arcoidosis issues.
>
> Today a parishioner, also on the vestry, asked me what exactly sarcoidosis
> is and what my prognosis is.  As I began to explain things to him, one of
> the old curmudgeons rose to stand by me and placed his right hand on my
> right shoulder as I spoke, and listened in.  I explained everything to
> them, and how my prognosis was very poor.  The vestryman thanked me for the
> information and thanked me for coming in to work as deacon as best as I
> can.  The elderly gentleman said, "I wish you the best.  You're my deacon
> and I love you."  That is so out of character for him, and it blew me
> away.  All I could say was, "Thank you, xxx, I love you too."
>
> I told Dawn, through tears, when I got home, about what had happened.  I
> told her I was just doing my job and felt so unworthy of such love.   Dawn
> told me that the parishioners there really love me.  (I tend to offer a nod
> and a "Thank you; I'm simply doing my job" when people compliment me.)
> It's not me, it's God, and to God be the glory, not me.
>
> My question is, "What's an ordained person to do with such tender feelings
> from those to whom they minister?"
>
> ​
> +++
> Grace & peace,
> jon
>
>