Embracing Absurdity and Whimsy in Ministry: Insights from Philip Amerson and Michael Mather - Part 1

In a recent episode of "To Be and Do," [https://www.belongingexchange.org/s1e5] host Philip Amerson sat down with his long-time friend, Michael Mather, the lead pastor of Boulder First United Methodist Church. As they reminisce about their early days and share heartfelt stories, three key takeaways emerge that are invaluable to anyone interested in the nuances of friendship, ministry, and unconventional wisdom.

1. Embrace Absurdity and Whimsy in Life

One of the central themes of the episode is the importance of approaching life with a sense of whimsy and humor. Philip and Michael's friendship dates back to a serendipitous meeting under a statue they fondly refer to as the "naked lady" at Indiana University Memorial Auditorium. Their playful banter is epitomized by the gift of a T-shirt Michael sent Philip that reads, "Always be yourself unless you can be a penguin, then always be a penguin." While absurd on the surface, this phrase underscores the value of embracing the whimsical aspects of life. Philip articulates this well: "Life is sometimes absurd, and we should treat it gently and with whimsy and joy" (00:02:11). This mindset has not only defined their friendship but has also influenced their approach to ministry, encouraging them to meet life’s challenges with a sense of humor and creativity.

2. The Power of New Imagination in Ministry

Another crucial takeaway is the importance of imagination and innovation in ministry. Philip praises Michael for his ability to "have new imagination and new eyes to see the options of ministry around" (00:04:36). Michael’s journey in ministry is a testament to this innovative spirit. One example he shares is his experience at Patchwork Central in Evansville, Indiana, where he was introduced to the concept of "advocates of the word." This initiative involved three individuals learning and teaching within the community, thus embodying a dynamic and communal approach to ministry.

Michael’s anecdote about leading a Bible study with women from a low-income neighborhood further illustrates this imaginative approach. He recounts how a woman named Stella shared her experience of running for precinct chairperson despite her lack of traditional qualifications. Stella’s story is a poignant example of how ministry can empower individuals to rise above their circumstances, highlighting the transformative potential of imaginative and inclusive ministry.

3. Authentic Community Engagement

The episode also emphasizes the significance of authentic community engagement. Michael's encounter with the Trimble study group, as assigned by Philip, was a pivotal moment in his ministry journey. He initially perceived his role as a leader, but the experience quickly humbled him and broadened his understanding of ministry. Listening to the women discuss their political views and daily struggles offered Michael a profound insight into the real-world implications of faith and community action. This experience shaped his ministry philosophy, reinforcing the idea that effective ministry involves active listening and genuine engagement with the community.

These key takeaways from the episode illustrate that ministry is not confined to the pulpit but thrives in everyday interactions and shared experiences. Philip Amerson and Michael Mather remind us that embracing absurdity, fostering innovation, and engaging authentically with the community are essential elements for a fulfilling and impactful ministry. As they plan to explore these themes further in future episodes, listeners have much to look forward to in "To Be and Do."

Whether you're a seasoned pastor or someone interested in the interplay between faith and community, this episode offers valuable lessons wrapped in humor, wisdom, and heartfelt storytelling. To continue exploring such enriching conversations, tune in to future episodes and join Philip and Michael on their journey of imaginative and joyful ministry.

Rev. Michael Mather