“For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven…” (Ecclesiastes 3:1)

These Are Gifts from God

The words of the writer of Ecclesiastes, and the words and music of the song Turn, Turn, Turn echo in my mind as I consider this article. It is an echo that began during a presentation at the Notre Dame Visions program last summer.

As this issue focuses on the liturgical year, we are reminded that the church seasons sometimes mimic the seasons of the year.

Seasons of the Year and the Church

Winter begins with the season of Advent, with preparation for the white, snowy innocence of the babe born on Christmas Day. The dead of winter, with its Lenten flair reminds us of the need for forgiveness of sin. Spring brings Easter, and the glory of new life and resurrection for all creation. The summer, with the heat from the sun reflecting upon us, reminds us of the flames of Pentecost. It is also a time when we celebrate ordinary time with a cyclical messages from the gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. Fall brings the of changing leaves. The glorious colors of fall coinciding with the feast of Christ the King.

“Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time…” (Ecclesiastes 3:11)

Seasons of Ministry

A great way to reflect on our vocation as ministers is to consider our ministries through the lens of the seasons. Does our ministry look more like summer, fall, winter, or spring? What characteristics of your ministry are similar to each of the seasons?

At times our ministry is growing, strong, vibrant, alive. Other times our ministry may feel stagnant, withering, or dormant. Like the seasons, our ministries cycle through the days, months, or even years. No matter what is going on in our ministries, it is important to remember the scriptures passages from Ecclesiastes; there is a time to everything and it is beautiful because God created it for us and those who will be touched through our ministry.

For Prayerful Consideration

What season would best reflect your ministry? Why? How does your ministry season fit into the current liturgical season?

Michael Carotta gave a wonderful presentation during the Notre Dame Visions program that included thoughts on seasons, vocations, and ministries. The combined wisdom of Mike, his wife, and Parker Palmer inspired this article. Thanks to each of them!