“Anger and humor are like the left and right arm. They complement each other. Anger empowers the poor to declare their uncompromising opposition to oppression, and humor prevents them from being consumed by their fury.”
– James H. Cone, Martin and Malcolm and America
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Kurt F. Shaffert
Baptized in 1977, confirmed in 1987, ordained in 2007, I did some hiking in 2016 of Vermont portions of the Appalachian Trail. A seasoned parishioner and AT end-to-ender had advised me that I would find the companions I needed on the trail. True enough, soon enough I met up with two hikers going my speed. One of them introduced the other as Fire Chief. (Why the name Fire Chief, I wondered.) Sure enough, I watched as Fire Chief lit a campfire in the midst of wind and rain. Fire Chief had studied, had honed a gift and was scrupulous in caring for us.
As a teenager, I served as the Youth Representative on a Pastoral Search Committee. I learned first- hand how we each are called to be ministers in Christ. One gift of the Spirit is for pastoral leadership and it is a gift to be shared in proclaiming the Gospel, partnering & envisioning shared ministry and empowering the saints.
As an adult, I feel called to Authorized Ministry because I believe in covenantal accountability for pastoral leadership. Too many clergy get into trouble because they try to do it alone. Akin to fire, religion can be as destructive as it can be healing and productive. Like Fire Chief, I have studied, I have honed my gifts and I want to do my part for those with whom I am called to journey.
I am most often more-than-happy to discuss ministry, El Camino & the AT. Let’s talk. And, when possible, let’s walk.
PastorKurtVT 