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Retirement??
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The teapot was
presented by a bishop to one of his clergy on behalf of the
parishioners whom he had served devotedly for many years. In making
his presentation the bishop drew these interesting parallels: Perhaps I may point out to you some details that may have escaped your notice to show how appropriately your friends have selected this gift and the useful lessons you may draw from a study of it; as typical of the calling of a clergyman. It is useful as it is beautiful, that is to say, not only does it faithfully carry out the work it was made for, but it lends charm and a joy to any company into which it may be introduced. Among its most prominent features you will observe the spout, which discharges one of the primary functions, for what flows from it should cheer and gratify all that partake of it. Again, you will remember that before anything is permitted to flow through the spout, a process of infusion must silently take place. The same should be true of that which flows from the lips of the clergy; if their words are to be effective there must be a short period of thoughtful preparation. The lid is another prominent feature, illustrating the importance of being able to 'shut up' at the right time. You should also appreciate that what flows from the teapot does not originate there; it is only the instrument, the means, the channel. The water must be drawn from the eternal source and it must be pure. Sometimes, too, the plain truth will not be accepted by everyone who partakes of it until it has been sweetened or mixed with the milk of human kindness. You may also notice something that is not ostentatiously paraded, though it will always be found by those looking carefully for it, and that is the stamp of its Maker. A clergyman declares himself to be an ambassador of Christ, and in the true ambassador the credentials are always to be discerned. Finally, in some mysterious way, age confers a higher beauty and value, and, although perhaps infirm in places, there is a sanctity and reverence that time alone can confer on vessels decrepit with service. [Editor’s note. The above, which is an extract from a book by Derek Nimmo (‘O Come all ye Faithful’ - a humorous church collection) was submitted by Gloria Rea, and is possibly relevant to the present situation of a soon-to-be ’retiree’ within our diocese! See here.] |
