Conference Minister's Corner 6.17.26

Conference Minister's Corner

Rev. Gordon Rankin, Acting Associate Conference Minister

6.17.26

NH Weekly News Article.  June 17, 2026

A couple of weeks ago about 20 of us attended the Clergy Day at Hooksett Congregational Church, sponsored by the Clergy Support Ministry and led by storyteller Valerie Tutson.  It was a great opportunity to get to know Valerie, ourselves a little better and one another, all in a few hours. At one point she sent us off in groups of three to share the most hilarious moments and then a challenging time in ministry that we’ve had.  The hilarious ones were easy to come up with; there were many.  The challenging ones were tougher because they reminded us that sometimes (often?) ministry is hard, and at times even painful. I didn’t share my biggest challenge because I'm terrible at coming up with things on the spot, but I came up with it on the ride home.  And it is this:  I do not like making mistakes. And yet I have made plenty over the years and will make plenty more in the years to come.  Which I hate. Did I mention I’m a first born, people pleaser, perfectionist? Anyone else? In a culture that encourages perfectionism, mistakes can be debilitating. Perfectionism is a tough row to hoe. Then along comes the church which says: “Hey, I got news for you.  You’re not perfect. Nobody is. And that’s ok. You are going to make mistakes – lots of them - everyone does and will. So cut yourself some slack.  When you mess up, ask for forgiveness (it’s not a sign of weakness) and offer forgiveness, too. And don’t forget to forgive yourself. Grace is a good thing.  The church has plenty.  God has plenty.”  That’s good news for all of us perfectionists…and everyone else, too. So as summer approaches may we allow our imperfect selves space for rest, joy, renewal, occasional mistakes, forgiveness and lots and lots of grace.  I will if you will!

See you in Church,

Linda