I am not feeling myself today. In fact, I have not been feeling much of anything for the last few weeks. Yes, ladies and gents, ‘tis the season for seasonal depression. Your humble narrator is not up to writing a whole post about some obscure philosophy or the blending of religious traditions today, so I’m not even going to try to be profound.
I will, however, expound upon a theory I have about the future of Ministry. Soon, I believe that Ministry will have less to do regarding religion, and more to do regarding mental health. Many of you will take a look at the more extreme religious leaders today and shiver at the thought of receiving mental health care from their likes - as well you should. However, if you take a look at the more mainstream Christian authors, or just browse the Christian section of you local book store, you’re likely to find titles look like and read like self-help books. They are self-help books - they just happen to be written by Christian Ministers.
There are many functions that a religious leaders fills, from conducting ceremonies to championing important causes. However, the reason why his or her flock keeps coming back has nothing to do with activism or maintaining traditions, but rather the soothing effect of the act of worship and the support that the Minister provides to each individual. I would like to regard church as being preventative mental health. I have no doubt that this is the function that clergy will serve in the future. Even as I write this, mental health professionals are looking into the effects of spirituality on their patients. These two professions are becoming more interrelated.
Is it any wonder? Just think about the basic messages that religions teach. Buddhism teaches that suffering can be transcended. Christianity teaches that God will forgive us, if we only ask. Neo-Paganism teaches that all things are divine. The positive messages of these religions and others fortify our emotional well being against mental illness, stress, and gives us hope that tomorrow will be better.
It makes me feel better knowing that this is the profession I’ve chose to go into. In fact, I may have just managed to beat my blues for today by writing this article. I guess God really does work in mysterious ways, which leaves me with only one thing left to say - Thank you.
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