In my mind, the concept of total ministry is "total" for several reasons. First, we realize that through baptism we are Christ’s own, commissioned to carry on the one, complete (total) ministry, the ministry of our Lord’s. For his ministry encompassed all. This is a privilege, but also a sobering responsibility. Second, we realize that all we do, in our work, play, thoughts, and deeds, is ministry, using the skills and talents that have been bestowed upon us by God. These gifts encompass our whole (total) life, given to us so we can carry Christ’s ministry forward.

    Certainly my own spiritual passage is not particularly unique. Raised in the Episcopal Church, I did my time as an acolyte and lived for EYC meetings. In my infinite wisdom during my college years I became disenchanted with the institutional church, only to return when the need to baptize and raise our children in a spiritual setting became a priority. I’m sure I share this sequence of events with many others. But when I returned to the church, I got involved with a small group from Stayton, a group that was working hard to implement the concepts of total ministry in their church. At first I was skeptical, but as I learned more and experienced more I found total ministry not to be the revolutionary or reactionary concept I initially imagined, but I found total ministry to be – comforting.

    In this group I found an environment designed to identify, affirm, and nurture ministries. An environment that was non-critical and encouraged risk taking. An environment that gave me confidence to pursue actions I never imagined and to participate in God’s creation as never before. I was able to play music, to sing loud, to pray aloud, to lead worship, to hug, to laugh at mistakes, and to talk and share with others some of the most private and intimate moments of my walk with God. I was able to take my Christianity out of the church and apply it freely at work, at home, and on the ball field. I experienced a spiritual revival that continues to sustain me, without the fear of failure, as I struggle to do my part of God’s work.

    And as I have grown, so have others. People have stepped forward to help fill the needs of our church and our community. People are accepting responsibilities with the confidence of success. And the mutuality of our experience creates a bond and a support system that encourages and facilities further exploration and growth. The more we learn, the more we want to know, and the more we experience, the more we want to do.

    As the concepts of total ministry play out in my life, I see it as the continuing inability to separate my spiritual life and convictions from the other facets of living. I am no longer able to conveniently "compartmentalize" my Christianity during difficult business or social situations. I can no longer prioritize my own convenience over the needs of others. For total ministry means that everything I do is in the service of God, and even though this service is flawed and imperfect, I find this concept – comforting.

© 2001, Diocese of Oregon
updated 05/03/2003 16:25
contact: kylew@diocese-oregon.org