What is the appropriate attire for an Episcopal priest at the events associated with the service in the Book of Common Prayer, the “Celebration and Blessing of a Marriage?” What does it mean to be an icon of Christ at a cocktail party? How does one live with sensitive confidential information from a parishioner? These questions might seem almost trivial yet are deeply serious. The Episcopal Church is a distinctive culture: effective ministry needs an understanding of the distinctive Episcopal culture.
At one level, this is a book that introduces and explains the Episcopal faith to a potential priest who wants to be effective in this world. At another level, this book is a reflection on the meaning and nature of the holy mystery of priesthood.
Drawing upon his rich parish experience in the Episcopal Church, Hawkins distils a wealth of practical experience and tips to enhance the training of seminarians and the ministries of established priests. Hawkins takes the reader through the pastoral offices with theological reflection and vignettes in order to encourage “good priestly habits.” Ideal reading for anyone wishing to serve the Episcopal Church in an ordained capacity.
Wonderful insights on some of the "they don't teach you that in seminary" aspects of ministry, though I do have to disagree on his disdain of self-care.
Overall, a great "Priest 101" course and the vignettes of experiences the author has had and his recommendations of how to handle them are worth the read.
The author does have some old-fashioned insight in his views of certain ordinances of the church. He makes some valid points with setting guidelines with the parish, but also allows some flexibility to work for some circumstances.