It is a good question and one that I often get asked, particularly by those who are less familiar with the jargon of the Church of Scotland.
Like those in parish ministry, it is fair to say that every day looks slightly different. You are never quite sure what will appear in your inbox or what a phone call might result in. Queries can come from those within the Presbytery and those from outside of it, including from the other side of the world. Often folks are looking for information, reassurance, guidance or someone to discuss things with. And it is probably a good thing that I am one of those people who quite likes delving into the detail to find answers. It's funny how things can come full circle. It reminds me of my time at Ernst & Young when I would be searching up VAT legislation to work out the solution to a client's problem.
Of course I'm not doing this work on my own. I spend quite a bit of time working with the Conveners in our Presbytery, especially when it comes to matters about buildings, finances, vacancies or planning. And with the size of the Presbytery it really is a team effort to be able to support all of our congregations as best as we can. Whether that is helping people move towards an adjustment, dealing with the processes around calling a minister, smoothing the way for a building to be sold or simply enabling office bearers to do the things they need to do.
One of the more challenging aspects of the role is responding to concerns and complaints. Often I am the first person to be told of something going wrong and part of my role is around helping those involved to find a resolution. Conflict is a regular feature but in some ways that is not surprising given the strain that everyone is under. I value the Place for Hope training I received last year and again appreciate that supporting those impacted is not something I do on my own.
Throughout the year I visit lots of places and I love being able to lead worship or participate in worship across the Presbytery. It is helpful to be able to spend time with congregations in their own setting and get to understand something of their own story. And I appreciate the opportunity to get to know people face to face. I've found that it makes such a difference when I next come to speak to someone on the phone or exchange emails. In the course of my journeys I am encouraged by all that is happening across NENI and how faithful followers of Jesus are seeking to honour God in all that they do. If you would like me to come and lead worship where you are, please get in touch.
Another aspect of my role which brings joy is working as part of the Presbytery team. We meet every fortnight online to catch up with one another and seek to support one another, making sure that we are sharing information and good practice. We took a day in June to meet together and discuss various things in more detail, enjoying a lovely lunch provided by Natasha. The team brings so much experience and energy to their work and it is great to see our various staff grow and develop in their roles.
So what does a Presbytery Clerk do? Hopefully today's post gives you some sense of what I get up to in fulfilment of my calling to the 'parish' that is NENI. And thank you to all those of you who support me in lots of different ways as I do that, including praying for me. It is much appreciated.
Rev Stella