I have dabbled in poetry most of my adult life, even though much of it was written as prose and delivered as sermon. Lately I have been more given to verse, which I find a greater challenge and a different kind of satisfaction.
So, you might imagine my delight at being introduced to a recent book by Craig Barnes titled, The Pastor as Minor Poet. It’s part of the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship Liturgical Studies Series. Barnes 
teaches at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary and is pastor of Shadyside Presbyterian Church. He writes that the major poets of sacred scriptures introduce us to holy mysteries, but it is the minor poets who see human lives reshaped by those mysteries. In fact, it is these minor poets who are given the task to translate ancient mysteries into the real “stuff” of contemporary life. And it is clergy who have this particular task. Clergy, precisely, are called to do this amidst the complexities, challenges, everyday routines and emotional roller coasters of congregational life.
This is not easy. In fact, contemporary clergy face not only the daunting task of trying to get a hearing amidst a carnival of competing consumers, there are actually some in religious market place who claim they are unnecessary to a person’s spiritual life. They are wrong. Well-trained minor poets are still needed, and in some ways more than ever before. Craig Barnes offers a host of deeper thoughts and helpful encouragements for today’s clergy.
The Center values and appreciates clergy and the vital task they perform. We are committed to doing what we can to resource their ministries and the lives of the congregations they serve. As the Center continues to expand its work in the northeast region and throughout the state of Indiana, we invite clergy minor poets of every religious perspective to take advantage of the Center’s gifts and opportunities.
Brian Witwer
Northeast Director
