Nine questions from a seminarian meme'ish

I could not resist the temptation to join in on Bruce's meme'ish from a seminary student, so here it goes. I want to thank the seminarian who took the time to ask these interesting questions about Bruce and others who are in the practice of ministry.

1. Tell me about your conversion experience/faith journey

Like some others I cannot exactly pinpoint a definite time or date when I accepted Christ but I have always felt that God's presence has guided me - even when I have not paid attention! My parents were Roman Catholic when I was born and stayed there the first seven years of my life when she let us go to Vermont Avenue Presbyterian Church with my Aunt Frankie Moore who was a member there. My mom always instilled in my two brothers and I a strong sense of church involvement and living in the ways of Christ. The church members took us in and nurtured us in many ways. I was also given a lot of leadership responsibilities within the congregation. That served me well as I grew up and went through school and life.

2. Why did you go into ministry?

It definitely was not my choice! Although I was given lots of leadership roles and responsibilities, ministry and being a minister was the farthest thing from my mind. I saw what my pastor went through in dealing with difficult people, low pay and my number one fear - speaking in front of people. People saw gifts for ministry in me but I was not having it. I was definitely like Moses and tried to excuse my way out of this one! To make a long story short, God's "Yes" eventually became louder than my "No" and I finally submitted to following God's will and way.

3. What do you love the most about being in ministry?

Probably being included in people's lives. I am always honored when people make space for me to be included in their ups and downs, joys and struggles. In a few cases it has also included being there in the moments of death. To me that is a real honor and joy that I love.

4. What is the most challenging thing about being in ministry?

I would say two things - 1) motivating people to use their gifts and skills for ministry vs. leaving it all to the pastor and/or a few members, and 2) equipping members to do ministry in a world that is constantly changing in all aspects.

5. What are the most important things to keep in mind while ministering to people?

Meet people where they are - don't feel that you have a special status or become the person who has all the answers. Don't be afraid to say "I don't know". Become an active listener instead of a problem-solver. Recognize that when people come to you they are entrusting you with a special gift that is to be honored and respected.

6. How do you deal with the stresses of ministry and leadership?

I find time to work out at the gym on a regular basis. Another thing I do is talk to certain trusted colleagues about whatever gives me the greatest ministry stress (VERY rarely I  share ministry issues with my wife and family).  I also pray and understand that I can't keep all that stuff to myself. I'll also read books and novels or just go somewhere; the mall, a park, window-shopping, etc. Sometime you just have to "quit the church" for a day!

7. How would you define your leadership style?

I would define my leadership style as collegial. I see myself more as an enabler or facilitator and tend to guide the discussions during our session meetings and the like. I also see myself as one who empowers and makes space so others can use their gifts for ministry. I tend to be a "high support/ low direction" type of leader.

8. How would you define the your leadership techniques?

When I first arrived at Davie Street, I followed the advice of members who told me that you need to speak to some of the more established and/or traditional members of the church to see what they say about a particular issue. The standard answer was always "If they think it's OK, I'll go along with it." Since I have been there for 13 years that technique no longer applies. Now I tend to know the congregation and spend more time"partnering" in ministry with all types of people, which includes getting input from all people and trying to discern a common ministry and vision.

9. What are the things people do that make you feel most supported and loved as their pastor?

Outside of the normal cards, letters and "Thank you's", it's when they are actually moved by the sermon/teaching to do something in their lives for the better. I have countless stories of how people have been moved to do something by the Holy Spirit that has strenghtened their faith and in turn have moved them to become a witness to what God has done in their lives so others may come to have a personal relationship with Christ.

Comments

[Bruce Reyes-Chow]

Good stuff as always!

[Pinkhammer]

Thank you for answering these questions! I definitely garnered some insight that will undoubtedly be helpful as I journey through seminary and ministry. I especially liked what you said about the most important things to keep in mind while ministering to people.

[Byron Wade]

Bruce - thanks, man!

Pinkhammer - you are very welcome! I pray that it will be helpful to you on the journey towards ministry ;-)