WATCH YOUR LANGUAGE!

Okay, this post will not be very long.  Just a "thanks" and a "suggestion."

At 62 I find myself seeking whatever is next in terms of a ministry position.  The church in which I have served for 4 years has suddenly found itself losing members and money (this happens in churches, sadly).  Bottom line - few key positions have been cut - one of them being mine.

So, the search has begun.  

My primary role in churches has been leading music and worship, so that's my starting point. The quest has been a little confusing and somewhat disheartening mainly due to the current climate of Christian churches today and the lack of clarity in job descriptions.

So, first, I want to very honestly say "thank you" to those churches who clearly state in their job description that they are specifically seeking younger, hipper, edgier, stage-savvy musicians with a knack for being up-front and performing their worship leading.  Truly - this is helpful!  Because it saves me (and you) from wasting time submitting resumes for a ministry position I neither want nor am qualified for based on the call sheet.

I also want to thank the churches who have the courage to admit that they are seeking a quality musician who is less interested in performing and more interested in helping the congregation discover a depth to the worship encounter through music and other elements.  Because that is me and I gladly send off my resume to those churches. 

Then, my suggestion - to all the churches out there who offer ambivalent or "expected and appropriate" wording that says one thing but means another - at least when the interview arrives...  Please go back and re-write your job listing!  You are doing a disservice to your church and music and worship leaders out there who are seeking their next ministry position.  Don't beat around the bush.  Just honestly say who you are and what you are looking for.  

Thanks!

Okay, back to the ministry job search...