Ministry and introversion

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Meira76

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Hello.
I joined this forum today and as I mentioned in my first post in the introductions, I am having a kind of career crises.

I have studied theology in the University of Helsinki. When I started my studies, I thought about becoming a minister (in the Finnish Lutheran church). However, in my early 20s I started to feel that while the work done in the chuch is fine (well, most of it ;)), I personally am just too introverted, too socially awkward to be a minister, and instead continued my studies in theology, writing a doctoral dissertation. Now the dissertation is completed. However, although I like doing research, it id very unlikely to ever get a post-doc funding since competition is fierce, and it is even more difficult since I only received a mediocre grade from my dissertation. There has also been some kind of changes for the worse in the university (I don't want to go into that now, general issues related to managing the university like a corporation instead of as an academic community).

So, after doing some short-time things I am again pondering ministry. In some of the career and INFJ books and websites I have read that it is a fairly common option for INFJs. And I am starting to feel its pull; you can call it vocation if you like. And it is, after all, what I have studied - the degree in theology is required from all the ministers in Finland. Still, I am wondering whether I have what it takes; whether working with people so much of the time would be too taxing for me. Since I have two small boys (aged 4 and 1), I have rarely chances to spend evenings in quiet to recharge.

Any comments, or advice? Are there any people here working in the church, willing to share their ideas on how to cope with introversion? :)
 
[MENTION=1848]The Doctor[/MENTION]

He may have some insight for you...
 
I know nothing about working in in ministry; however, I do know that shyness can definitely be overcome. As for it being draining, it might be somewhat at first, but a lot of introverts can overcome that to speak in front of crowds (a lot of professors at large universities do). Have you been trained in public speaking?

So don't let that dissuade you if you think it is the only thing holding you back. You might have to work harder than some though to be ready for it. A lot of the other stuff people in ministry sometimes do- i.e. counselling, is right up an INFJ's alley.
 
Thanks for your comments.

Speaking in public, like preaching, does no worry me so much. I have spoken publicly; I have taught at the university, given lectures related to my research and so on. As long as I am moderately well-prepared, that is not a problem. I worry more about meeting people in gatherings without any liturgical structure or notes to consult; for example, socializing with large groups of people in weddings, christenings, funerals, and the like. I can easily get very tired in those situations, and fear that I will have little to say, just sit there drinking coffee and looking tired and bored :)
 
Meira76 said:
Thanks for your comments.

Speaking in public, like preaching, does no worry me so much. I have spoken publicly; I have taught at the university, given lectures related to my research and so on. As long as I am moderately well-prepared, that is not a problem. I worry more about meeting people in gatherings without any liturgical structure or notes to consult; for example, socializing with large groups of people in weddings, christenings, funerals, and the like. I can easily get very tired in those situations, and fear that I will have little to say, just sit there drinking coffee and looking tired and bored :)
Click to expand...

Well there's the heart of it, I'm a fellow minister/introvert. In most situations you'll be able to overcome your shyness with time, once you get to know the people in your congregation, making friends and acquaintances. This also helps with the social gatherings, when you now people it's easier to relax and enjoy yourself or at least relate to the people around you.
And try not to worry so much about coming off as bored or tired, people want to see you, not the face you put up at social environments.

That can be especially true for introvert preacher who have a tendency to almost be to different people in the pulpit and in their office, no need to add a third persona for parties.
 
Ministry is like sales. Maybe smoke some grass and drink some scotch, work out a little in the morning. Your batteries will charge ;)
 
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