Funerals can bring out the best or the worst in people/families. Here's a story from a funeral that I can't make up. Note that this story is not from my current ministry setting and names and identifying information has been changed. I was asked to officiate a funeral for a family that wasn't connected to a church but wanted a minister. I met with the family before the funeral and learned I was only meeting part of the family and that there was some sort of rift between the adult children. I made a mental note but the family seemed to be okay. Fast forward to the day of the funeral. I arrive half way through the visitation before the service and check in with the funeral home and family and things seem to be okay. It's clear that there's a divide between the children but folks seem to be staying on their respected sides and behaving. The service goes off well and the casket gets loaded into the hearse. Family members get in their vehicles and I get in the hearse wit...
I'm an ordained minister in the DOC and UCC. These are my stories and reflections as I attempt to live my calling as a minister. Some days, ministry is awe inspiring and great. Other days, I wonder what answering this call has gotten me into. I offer this not to say this is "the way." Journey with me, whether you agree or not, because we can learn from each other.