Being single in ministry is about as awkward as a homemade Star Wars reenactment film. Some well intentioned Protestants believe it is their civic duty to provide for their pastor… a kind and generous gesture... except when it extends to include the provision of a spouse. Since (as far as I know) spouses are not a commodity, the potential for awkwardness is through the roof.

There are just some things they don’t teach you how to deal with in seminary. That was the case a few days ago, when I was being introduced to a middle aged woman whom had previously attended the parish, but had recently slipped away.

“We haven’t seen you in a while! I’d like to introduce you to our new minister…” she said, elbowing the lapsing congregant… “And he’s single! (wink)”

SEMINARY FAIL.