Pastoral care is a natural strength of mine. It is just a part of who I am. CPE really illuminated a natural ease and comfort in caring for the spiritual needs of others. I am grateful for the trust that has been placed in me by so many. During my time in Seminary, I was honored by how many of my peers sought my counsel, support, and guidance. In some ways, seeing the caliber of people that trusted my advice was a big part of what helped me once and for all recognize and acknowledge my natural talents.
I am also very aware that with great privilege comes great responsibility. I have had many situations in life, both in the corporate world and in my role as a minister, where it was clear that I could have used a power imbalance to my advantage. I think it may be because of how much I was bullied as a child, but whatever the source I have zero desire to take advantage of another human being for my own gain. My ministry is rooted in using my voice to empower others.
The source of my caring has changed. I was a people-pleaser, often giving away more of myself than I had to give in order to receive that
feeling of being liked. The toll of that existence is heavy, and manifests in many self-defeating ways. Through years of focused intention, therapy, and finally the formation process of Seminary, I have finally come to see my inherent worth and dignity. It is this that forms the foundation that allows me to tell you with confidence that I am, in fact, a minister.
I have provided pastoral care to young adults in my church community after a lifelong friend was killed in a tragic swimming accident. I have sat with the dying and their families. I have helped a young trans person access resources and find temporary housing. I have broken bread with the homeless, and the top 1% of the 1%. Senior executives have turned to me when the pain caused by the loss of a parent hit them harder than expected.
Pastoral care is just what I do…
