Minister as Midwife and Servant

We celebrated with Ruth last night as she was ordained into the Church of Scotland as a ‘Minister of Word and Sacrament’  at Lochmaben.  It was her father’s comments to which the title alludes as he preached with reference to Exodus 1:15-21 (Midwife) and Mark 10:35-45 (Servant).

Enabling the congregation to fulfil their potential is a birthing process, a process that requires the skills of a midwife, but one who is also the least of all and servant to the people.  A wonderful image of a minister, one who enables the (re)birthing of peoples skills time and talents for God’s kingdom.   It was great to be there for Ruth’s ordination, if not a little saddle sore after a 6 hour round trip!!