YOKED

After months of attempting to clearly articulate my sense of ministry for a handful of graduate school applications, I have arrived at a few running definitions that satisfy me- for the moment.   They are all purposefully abstract, intimating that the underlying gospel dynamic is one of liberation that leads to abundant, joyful self-giving. But if the refrain is that simple, that adaptable, how could I begin to put parameters on when and where “ministry” takes place? Throughout my life I have encountered exquisitely refined ministry from the people you would expect- keen professors, embracing campus ministers, and doting Jesuit priests who have made the title “father” more fitting than a pair of worn-in jeans.   But I’ve also seen a different variety of ministry flourish outside of the Catholic mileau.   For instance, ministry was unwaveringly honest and direct for the alcohol and drug counselors I worked beside at Friendship House.   There, they had different names for God (a po