In a recent survey on job satisfaction in the UK, I was surprised to read that clergy and hairdressers are amongst the happiest workers in the land. As I puzzled over this news I was reminded of an article I had read about the role of the pastor’s wife which included an ad which ran something like this:
HELP WANTED: Pastor's wife. Must sing, play music, lead youth groups, raise seraphic children, entertain church notables, minister to other wives, have ability to recite Bible in one go and choreograph Christmas pageant. Must keep pastor sated, peaceful and out of trouble. Difficult colleagues, demanding customers, erratic hours. Pay: £0.
Back in the UK I had read this and thought it was very amusing. However, nine months into the ‘job’ as a missionary pastor’s wife in Sicily, I no longer think it is quite so funny. Quite the contrary, I might add to the mix the fact that all of the above must be conducted in a culturally-sensitive way and in a foreign language.
The role of a pastor’s wife is perhaps one of the most underrated, underappreciated jobs on earth. It is just taken for granted that she will love kids, know how to talk to old people, sing, direct children’s plays, churn out endless streams of lunches and dinners at the drop of a hat, be an expert telephone counsellor, put Sunday school programmes together and all with an indelible smile. Does she get credit for any of this? Not much. Most of that goes to the Pastor whom she must support and defend at all times. Exhausting? You better believe it. But you know what I wouldn’t change my job for the world. I know this sounds terribly cheesy but I believe that God has been preparing me for this all of my life.
If I were to rewrite that ad today I think it would run something like this:
HELP WANTED: Pastor’s wife: exciting challenges, hours of satisfaction and rewarding experiences, opportunities to be part of something good, to see children laugh and old people smile. A chance to have a go at a range of different activities from leading worship, acting and teaching to being “the hostess with the mostest” and doing children’s talks. Enjoyable and stimulating company especially around a good meal. Fabulous chance to work in partnership. Pay: Out of this world!
Alexandra Anderson is working in Italy with her (Pastor) husband Huw. BMS has many other roles which are just as exciting, just waiting for people to offer for service. For more information click here