This Odd and Wondrous Calling - A review

This Odd and Wondrous Calling is a series of  reflecting on the the craft of ministry by two United Church of Christ ministers.  As I read this I laughed and cried and was reminded, by their loving re-telling of the story of the ministry they exercise, what it means to be called, and why I responded to the call of God.  This book is an honest, warm and loving testimony to the joy, wonder and frustration of ministry in all its facets, from tedious meetings, to shaking hands after the service, to death and marriage.  It covers topics such as being a preacher's son, being a mother and a minister and marriage.  It considers friendship, ethics and money. It reflects on both the public and private aspects of ministry.  I shared a number of the chapters from this book with the exit group this year and they were as enthusiastic as I was about this book.  It has much to offer ministers at each stage of their ministry journey from beginning to end.  One of the strengths of the book is that it is written by two different people, of different ages, genders and experiences.  This enriches the book as it allows different stories to be told, never in competition, always to enrich and illuminate.  It is a good example of why friendship is important in ministry and of how rich a friendship between a more and less experienced minister can be for both. I have recommended this book to a number of colleagues who tell they too have enjoyed the book, finding it addresses real issues in ministry in a way that challenges and encourages.  it the type of book you recalling in conversation, and saying to people "I just read something good about that." You want to share chapters with others and have discussion aobut what differnet chapters provoked in you.  For those interested in ministry practice it would make a good discussion group book.  While easy to read it is not simplistic nor does it offer easy answers. I can't recommend this book highly enough or often enough.This Odd and Wondrous Calling is a joy and encouragement to read  It is humane, wise and hopeful