Wits’ Ends Day: A Notable Pastor Evaluation

  First United Church of Nazareth Pastoral Evaluation Report from Pastor/Congregation Relations Committee (PCRC)   Over the past three weeks, the PCRC has asked congregation members to submit pastoral evaluations as we seek to provide accountability to our pastor and strengthen our congregation’s ministry in the community. We appreciate all who took the time to… Read More

Wits’ Ends Day: Vacation Tips for the Pastor

Summer vacation season is almost upon us. And we all know that vacations can be stress-producing, anxiety-triggering, money-sucking, energy-draining, exercises in “it seemed like a good idea at the time.” BUT, they can also be wonderful, life-giving, revelations. Here are some helpful vacation tips especially designed for pastors who need time away: Establish a “no… Read More

Wits’ Ends Day: Happy (Ash) Valentine’s (Wednes)Day

Hallmark may not be taking advantage of this unique opportunity, but I thought somebody should create a few cards to mark the confluence of Valentine’s Day and Ash Wednesday. Sending all my love and penitent thoughts to you lovely clergywomen on this day of hearts and ashes.   If you’ve ever struggled with the logistics of… Read More

Wits’ Ends Day: New Year’s Resolutions (for other people)

I was too busy throwing up my peppermint fudge brownie sundae (and whatever else I had eaten ever in my life) to make new year’s resolutions last week. But that’s OK. I’d be breaking them by now anyway. A couple of years ago I made some resolutions for failure in the new year—which worked out… Read More

December Clergy BINGO

  Dec. 22: “Sorry I can’t [do what I’m scheduled to do Christmas Eve] because I have to [do this thing I’ve known about for months].” Fire safety concerns crowd out holy awe as entire congregation holds lit candles while singing Silent Night Dirge tempo for “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel”—all seven verses Realization that you… Read More