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A Comparison of Pastoral Theology by Father John Jillions And My Experience

By William A. Chorney, Eparchy of Saskatoon

Reading the article, “Pastoral Theology,” by John A. Jillions, was very refreshing. I was able to reminisce about my involvement in pastoral work in Canada’s Northwest Territories and Mexico. By painting vivid word pictures as an introduction to the article, the author etches the scenes in the mind of the reader. He brings out the importance and essence of serenity, peace and devotion involved in carrying out pastoral care of Jesus’ flock. By defining the elements required for effective pastoral theology, Father Jillions lights the fire of encouragement in the would-be pastoral minister. Starting with the first steps of setting up a parish department responsible for pastoral ministry, he outlines the role of lay ministers in the community. He also explains how focus on one’s inner life, self-knowledge and boldness play an importance part in pastoral ministry. Even though the locations and cultures might change, the underlying principles of pastoral care do not.

The norms which many people apply to pastoral workers are somewhat stereotyped, however, more and more recognition is given to pastoral workers who are lay people. Certainly, that was what my wife and I encountered when we worked in the frigid Canadian North and in the mountains of Western Mexico. We were lay people doing the will of God amongst the poor. With spiritual support from clergy, we were able to help countless people find their way in life and their way to God, our creator. The importance of laity as pastoral care givers cannot over emphasized.

Their work, however, must be supplemented by approval and support of the clergy. The importance of support from clergy was brought home to me when I first started work as a pastoral worker in a small town in North Central Saskatchewan. With proper commissioning by the Bishop and priest, I was granted the privilege of being able to distribute Holy Communion to shut-ins and the elderly in retirement homes. I was not obliged to wear my vestments. The reaction I received was similar to that described by the author. There was very little enthusiasm for what I was trying to accomplish. The participation in the services was lethargic and few wished to receive the Blessed Sacrament. I could feel a great amount of skepticism on the part of these elderly residents.

The atmosphere changed completely when I wore my vestments. The meeting room was packed, all the people wanted to receive Holy Communion, they sang and all of them wanted to shake my hand. One old lady asked me to bless her and she insisted on kissing my hands. The anticipation of the Holy presence in liturgy is a powerful motivator. People associate priestly dress with holiness, goodness and kindness.

I agree with the author on another observation he makes regarding the emphasis which orthodox theology places on the focus on inner life. It is my opinion that it would be impossible for a pastoral worker to work effectively with people if that worker were in constant inner spiritual turmoil - if they weren’t walking their talk. It is literally impossible for a person to have any empathy for another human being if they themselves don’t know or have never experienced empathy themselves. With peace and tranquility in one’s inner self, a person can take time to listen to the needs of those who come to them for assistance, be it spiritual, mental or physical in nature.

This is why prayer life is so important for the well being of a pastoral care giver. The time away from distractions such as daily chores, driving in traffic and constant chatter of people gives a person time to reflect on the important inner needs, the spiritual health that they require to do their job well. That is precisely why monastic life is so important. Not everyone can turn the pressures of day-to-day life off and on like a tap. Monks and sisters who live monastic lives can devote themselves to prayer for those who can’t take time from caring for siblings and families. Monastics are an important link between God and man. As St. Francis said, “More things are wrought by prayer than this world dreams of.”