Conference Minister's Corner 10.21.26

Rev. Gordon Rankin

Conference Minister

This week I offer a little change of pace. October is Clergy Appreciation Month. I am endlessly grateful for, and proud of, the efforts and impacts of all our Authorized Ministers (Ordained, Commissioned, or Licensed) who serve in and on behalf of United Church of Christ in settings all across New Hampshire. I know you all are too.  

This week I offer a simple prayer. I hope it is used in churches over the next couple of weeks, voiced by a lay leader in the church, to offer community prayer for your pastors and other clergy in your midst.

Gordon

A Prayer for Clergy Appreciation Month

Holy One, Our hearts overflow with gratitude for those who serve your church as Authorized Ministers. Whether they are pastors serving our congregations, chaplains in healthcare organizations, higher education settings, prisons or the military, pastoral counselors, theological educators, justice workers, those ministering in wider church settings; or those who have retired from active service, each brings the light of your Divine Word into our world in their own unique way.

They are those who inspire us to be our most faithful selves. They are those who are present with us in times of challenge and of grief. They are those who both invite us and equip us for the sacred journey that you call us to travel. We are so very thankful for what they bring to our lives and the collective life of our communities of faith.

Continue to pour out your blessings upon them that they might have the courage and perseverance for the tasks of each new day, the wisdom of discernment in a constantly shifting world, and grounding in the fertile soils of your Holy Spirit. May they be gifted with places to rest body and soul amidst the relentless pace of ministry. And, perhaps more than anything else, give them ears and hearts that hear the fulness of appreciation from those who know the fruits of their ministry.

Amen