Since I last wrote in the blog my Bishop told me I would have to go to half time in the church I was service. Six weeks later the church was told there would be no money at all for me beginning January 1, 2008. They did provide two months, only two months, severance pay. After 21 and half years in the parish ministry I was dismissed without even an apology.
Be careful what you wish for. I have been wanting to leave parish ministry for some other form of priestly service. But I would rather do it on my time. Do I attribute this change in my fortunes to the God who listens and grants me what I ask for or to the vagaries of the worldly church?
If I were not angry with the way I have been treated, I would be happy about the change. But on March 1 I will have not income, no job, no health care. Bishop Breidenthal provided me with a three months contract with a job coach. It is very good work, but it is not going to provide me with an immediate income.
What I am exploring: CPE residency. Chaplaincy at Bethany School. Non religious jobs. That is a biggie. I have applied for a chaplaincy with the Seaman’s Institute and a half time church in southern Kentucky.
In the mean time Nancye has acquired a second job. In addition to framing pictures for Michaels she is a part time secretary at St. Thomas’ Episcopal Church in Terrace Park.
