We need "similar others."

Recently I've had three phone calls that affected me deeply. Two made my heart soar and one made my heart sink.  I had calls from two Polyphony members, both still in early career, who are facing exciting new opportunities and will likely move to new positions. These wonderfully gifted church musicians wanted to share their good news with me. And I celebrated with them.

On the other hand, the third call left me almost speechless. A veteran colleague who has been "underemployed" for several years recounted an interview process that went sideways. Turns out, he was asked to travel to a prospective church for a visit. (I had already had a lengthy call with a member of the search committee and I was able to give a very strong recommendation). But it became apparent the pastor and music search committee were not clear about the future direction for worship and music in the church. Consequently, when my colleague asked for clarification in the interview process, some on the committee took offense. Days later the search chair called to say "you're not a good fit." (The truth is this search committee needed to be more clear earlier in the process about what was the profile for this position). While it was best (in the long run) my colleague was not offered the position, this was deeply disappointing.

I share this with you to say. I love what I get to do in leading Polyphony, whether planning for a conference or dreaming of new initiatives or fundraising. But I realize that some days I am simply a pastor: a minister to ministers of music, a listening ear, a trusted partner. And that is such a privilege.

As hard as the calling/hiring process can be, and as much as we wish search committees would do it better (insert your own definition of “better” here), it can still be a beautiful part of discerning what does the next chapter of ministry look like?

Let me offer a few (hard-won) observations:

Read every page on the church website and carefully review worship orders, newsletters and services (when possible). Be informed. Having said that, don’t let poor live streaming production values keep you from seeing the potential in a place.  We have all become accustomed to slick video production; many churches do not have this capacity.

It is tempting to hold yourself back (emotionally or otherwise) for fear of rejection. But do your best to enter into these conversations fully. Be yourself. At the same time, do your best to engage fully, knowing there is no guarantee this will work out.  You are in a unique position to help these well-intentioned people discover with clarity who is best suited for this position.  You have a holy role to play –– even if you are ultimately not the candidate selected.

Can you work with this pastor? Are you sure you are aligned with their theology and philosophy, especially as related to worship? Also, how does this pastor speak of the lay leadership? With affection and admiration? Or with distrust, or even disdain? Watch for signs of “trouble in River City!”

If you need to talk, call me. I am happy to be a trusted conversation partner. Recently I reminded my friend, Louis Bailey (Crescent Hill Baptist, Louisville) that I once called him to ask for advice when struggling with a difficult situation. Trusted advisors like Louie deserve much credit for my ability to have a sustainable long-term career in church music. We all need “similar others” to do this thing called music ministry.

~ Doug Haney