Many clergy see Spring as a time of pushing through and dragging across–not unlike the final stretch of a marathon. “Hunker down,” many say, “you just have a bit more to go until your summer break.” I’ve always struggled with this thinking and advice. It doesn’t feel all that inspiring–nor does it have much to do with a pastor’s sacred call: being spiritually grounded so that we can care for the souls we serve.
This kind of holy work (for isn’t the care of souls holy?) requires some things so that we aren’t pushing and dragging.
I have found attending spiritual retreats and collegial gatherings in the Spring to be the antidote to this. They gift me with time to engage in worship and spiritual practices with my fellows, and to, literally, return to the home of my soul (there I go, singing that Meditation Hymn to you again!) I am convinced that unless I am in my own body and spirit, I really can’t care for others all that well (at least without risking burnout). I sense that you know this well.
In a few weeks I will attend my final Spring retreat of the church year and am grateful that this congregation sees the value in this. This is a life-giving blessing for ministers to have this in the congregations they serve.
And I pray that this spiritual community offers you a sanctuary for your soul to return to. This is, after all, what church is for! I also pray that you ask for what you need and can let go of the things that keep you away from yourselves here. I hope you can resist the urge to push or try to do it all alone. Be gentle with yourselves, for you are precious and deserving of care and rest Dearest Church Family.
Later this month, I plan to sing a song called Loosen with your choir during a Sunday worship service. This song was shared with me at one of my retreats last Spring, and it moved me deeply. If it feels good, close your eyes, breathe, and take a listen by clicking here.
With deep love, gratitude, and care,
Rev. Sophia
Reverend Sophia Lyons
Rev. Sophia is committed to radical welcome and spreading the good news that is our bold Unitarian Universalist faith. Some of her areas of interest include interfaith partnerships, addictions ministry, spiritual direction, and working towards collective liberation for all. Rev. Sophia aspires to live her life and fulfill her ministry guided by spiritual seeking, big love, and the seven principles of Unitarian Universalism.