Wallace SC&W Minister Self-Accountability   Congregations need to set boundaries for behavior in the congregation in order to help protect members and staff from unjustified or inappropriate slams as well as keep the congregation from deteriorating into a brawl.  But while those steps are vital, many fires can be put out by actions we can take ourselves. Here are a few thoughts of things to do that will fend off the criticism and provide security for ministers:   *Keep some semblance of a schedule (e.g. office hours, hospital visits) so that members/staff know what to count on.  Unfortunately members often make the assumption that if you aren’t around you aren’t working.  Also have receptionist trained to say where you are rather than “I don’t know”.  For some situations they may have to say, “Pastor is making a home visit” in order to keep the specifics confidential but that gives the idea of what you are doing.   *Work with the executive committee to set up goals (ones that are specific, measurable, attainable, reachable and timed). These goals will give you the protection of having clearly identified priorities of focus for your efforts that have been ‘agreed upon’.  Also do a written evaluation at least annually, with an interim review, on these goals. Do this even if you have to do it yourself.  Demand a job description which is occasionally reviewed and updated   *Err on the side of generosity.  When doing reimbursements be sure to keep everything above board and if something could look questionable get a church leader’s affirmation on it.   *Have a staff person around when meeting with persons of the opposite sex. Put a window in your door or open the blinds so as to provide accountability.   *Watch what kind of jokes, comments and actions (e.g. touch) you say/do.  Do not cut down others or try to undercut others.   *Seek outside support and accountability.  Seek out someone whom you will give permission to ask questions and to challenge you. Be honest with them about your struggles, temptations, hopes and …. Let them know you, really know you, and ask for their prayers.   *Document.  It is easy to get half way into a situation and wish that you had made a note about something that happened earlier.  Several years ago I had a member who was complaining that she was never contacted and no body cared about her.  I called and visited and when she mentioned that she was never called I challenged, “But we have called.”  She said no you haven’t!  Then I was able to help her remember by bringing up times and conservations.  Afterwards she said, “I guess I have been called, I had forgotten, that makes me feel much better!”  Her perception was inaccurate and creating anger and hurt but a few notes on calls made resolved it.             Another area of documentation is in dealings with staff. If there are problems jot down dates, times and a summary of what happened.  You may never need it but if things progress these can be essential and a shield for attacks on you.   *Take time to rest.  Be sure to sleep enough.  The nightly routine is critical to keeping our mental and physical health in line.  Then be sure to take days off…it is a command and not an option remember.  Finally be sure to enjoy vacations.  We can feel like continuing to work instead of taking time off is a sign of our loyalty to the congregation and to Christ but it actually only shortens the lifespan of our ministry.   *Take time for refueling.  Go to workshops, conferences and spiritual retreats to be reminded of important issues and to allow yourself to dream and regain a larger perspective.  The day in and day out effort tends to shrink our vision and we need to be able to see the bigger picture.   *Watch for your wearing thin.  Stress, fatigue or burnout can cause us to make poor decisions or questionable actions.   *Have some kind of life outside the church.  Since so much of our day is totally within the church it is easy to fail to reach outside for hobbies and friendship.  The outside touch brings us balance, perspective and a sense of safety as well.   *Ask for help.  When there is too much on your plate or when you are in over your head reach out to others.    *Don’t overlook caring for your family.  They give so much and when neglected the tension here can overflow in many ways.  Just to not have their enthusiastic support and encouragement cripples our ministry.                                                                                                                                                                                                  January 31, 2008