How to Wreck or Save a Church
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Take This Job and Shove it The senior clergy really didn’t like the music director at all. There’s nothing wrong with that; personality conflicts are a part of life. Most folks, however, recognize this and establish a peaceful coexistence. Both parties usually follow the “You be nice to me and I’ll be nice to you” philosophy. This particular senior clergy, however, didn’t embrace that philosophy. As the year progressed, the senior clergy became more outspoken during the service about what he perceived were shortcomings of the music director. Finally, the music director had had enough and in the middle of a service turned to the senior clergy and said, “I’ve had enough of your garbage. Take this job and shove it,” and then walked out, in front of a shocked congregation. The music director went to another city and got another job, at a higher salary. The response of the congregation varied. A significant number left and attended another house of worship, a suitable majority remained, a few stopped participating in any religious service, and a small number now attend another church only on special occasions. Lessons Learned: Relationships among church leadership and church staff need to be respectful.
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About the Book
This book is a collection of vignettes. The vignettes, while based on actual events, have (in most cases) been presented in a humorous manner and with a touch of artistic license. These vignettes provide lessons that can be learned, for the clergy, the diocese, the music directors, the staff, the church elders, and the congregants. Although the vignettes are about Orthodox, Jewish, Catholic, and Protestant houses of worship, I have masked the identity of the denominations. It is important to note that the vast majority of clergy, staff, and elders are dedicated to their profession, or position. The examples in this book are about those individuals who shouldn’t have been in any religious leadership position.
About the Author
Born and raised in the West, Smith grew up at a time when many farmers still used horses to plow their fields. Steam engines were the norm, and a diesel locomotive was unique. After serving in the Air Force, he worked as a teacher, and later as a church musician. He now lives in South Carolina.