Concerns have been raised in public arenas in the life of the church about recent changes to the Open Book Bible Exegesis examination. The expression of these concerns points to the important role the examinations play in the larger preparation for ministry process in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).

John Calvin’s understanding of piety shaped his followers in very distinctive ways. Active participation in society, intelligent moral character, careful stewardship of human and natural resources are as much a part of Calvin’s piety as corporate worship, devout and disciplined personal and family life, Bible reading, and singing of Psalms. 

It runs against the grain today to suggest that anything past could be of interest, let alone of importance. Nevertheless, A.D. 2009 will be the 500th anniversary of the birth of John Calvin. It will be appropriate to celebrate by reading his works, especially because he helps us to remember, and to know, the One born 1,500 years earlier than he.

When I was in the second grade I led a solitary sort of existence. As a result, I was soon reading at the seventh grade level. Unfortunately this accelerated progress did not last. By the time I reached the seventh grade I was back to reading, as they put it, in an age appropriate way — smack dab at the seventh grade level.

The following article is excerpted from the author’s book, Calvin for Armchair Theologians (Westminster-John Knox, 2002).

The 218th General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) is sending ten proposed amendments and four ecumenical statements to the presbyteries for their affirmative or negative votes.

It was faith that made Abraham obey when God called him to go out to a country which God had promised to give him. He left his own country without knowing where he was going … ” Hebrews 11:8-10 (Good News Bible)

“We’re narrowing our list of priorities,” a church leader said the other day.

Why would someone want a job that requires working 24/7, offers low compensation when juxtaposed with attorneys (with whom they share a basic skill set), diminishing social stature, weekend duty without overtime, and the requirement that one always be nice? Why would one choose a role model who advocates giving up one’s life, forsaking family and friends, and praying for one’s enemies? 

It began with fantasizing that I would make a darn good layperson. I could still be very active in ministry, without having all the responsibilities, heartaches, and pressures of being a pastor, head of staff. After more than 20 years of pastoral ministry, I was tired and discouraged. I must hasten to add that the congregation I was serving was thriving.

As I am make the transition from middle governing body work to service as a pastor in a local congregation, I reflect on my pilgrimage and beyond. How has my service in observing and being a ministry partner to pastors influenced my understanding of the pastoral task? How do presbyteries and congregations nurture the pastors God has called to service in their midst?

Do you have challenges with your church members? Are you frustrated trying to influence those over whom you have little control? Do you have conflicts and are unsure how to deal with them? Do you know how you are coming across to those with whom you interact? My experience in coaching ministers with these issues indicates that they can increase the pastoral Intelligence necessary to tackle these common ministerial challenges.