The mental load of a pastor during Holy Week
Many of these apply to all clergy, some more so to clergywomen, and a few specifically to pastor-parents
Holy Week contains multiple observances that inform our understanding of the Christ we follow. Pastors understand that this is an important stretch for their congregations. What makes it so busy, though, is not just the worship services. There is so much invisible mental and emotional labor. Below are some of the thoughts that might be running through your minister’s mind. A few are tongue-in-cheek, but all of them are very real stressors.
Where did those palms from Sunday end up so they can be burned for next Ash Wednesday?
Has the word gotten out to the community about the Easter egg hunt? And do we have enough eggs? Who is hiding said eggs?
Who is watching my kids on their spring break, which of course is this week?
Is communion ready for Maundy Thursday?
Are the candles ready for Good Friday? Do we have enough readers?
Why did my staff member pick today to submit her resignation notice?
Who will change out the paraments as we move from Maundy Thursday to Good Friday to Holy Saturday to Easter Sunday?
Did the Easter lilies get ordered? Do I have my allergy medication ready so I don’t sneeze through the whole worship service?
Can the conflict that just arrived in my inbox wait until next week?
Has the copier started its annual protest of so. many. bulletins. yet?
How many times has my kid eaten McDonald's this week? Will one more time make a substantive difference? Come to think of it, have I eaten today?
How do I do justice to the memorialization of [insert name of beloved church member who just died] during Holy Week?
Do we have enough greeters for a bigger crowd on Sunday? Enough bulletins? Communion elements? Do we have invitations to upcoming ministries handy to give to newcomers?
Who’s available to fill in for my injured/ill musician?
How fast can we get a plumber to fix the toilet in the bathroom right off the sanctuary?
Do I/does my family have enough clean underwear to get through the week without doing laundry, or do I need to squeeze in a Target pick-up?
How do I write another Easter sermon about a scripture that is itself the Good News?
Do my kids have Easter-appropriate clothes that fit? Do I? Will we remember to take a picture of all of us in our best?
Is my exhaustion a contagious sickness coming on or just garden variety Holy Week overwork? Do I have an unexpired Covid test at home?
How much coffee will I need to make it from a sunrise service to the holiest Nap of the year?
What will I/my family do for Easter dinner?
Who is filling in for me next Sunday? No one? SIGH.
Laypeople, please pray for your church staffs - not just ministers, but also admins, musicians, and facilities folks - who are working hard to create meaningful worship experiences this week and every week. Show up and share your appreciation. But most of all, give in to the worship moment, letting your discipleship be shaped by Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, his last night with his friends, his trial and execution, and eventually his victory over the injustices and powers of this world.
Pastors, do take care of yourselves this week. Nourish your body with food, water, movement, sunlight, and sleep. Give yourself (and others) grace when things don't go as planned. Spend some moments in worship, don't just focus on leading worship. And be sure to reclaim some of your time next week and beyond. Blessings on you, and thank you for all you do!