The Clergy Spouse Bible Study group met three times during the 2017-2018 program year, excluding Advent, Christmas, Lent, and Easter. We looked at different topics and how they applied to our lives particularly as clergy spouses. For example, how to survive the “craziness” of a search process, or how to forgive a parishioner who has hurt your spouse, but you have no opportunity to personally work out the conflict with the church member. The diocese and the Clergy Family Commission provided meals to the Bible study participants. Good Shepherd in Dallas; Church of the Savior in Allen; and Transfiguration in Dallas all graciously hosted us at various times during the year.

Another important function of the Bible study was fellowship and prayer support for the members. It always helps to know that you are not alone as others are having similar struggles. Even though participants came from different ministry backgrounds and ages, we found a safe place to share prayer requests and comfort in knowing that our prayers were being lifted up to a loving God. The group was able to support members in their time of need in such ways as providing food after one ministry couple lost a baby and giving a baby shower for an expectant mother. Finally, we enjoyed being together at a low-key Christmas cocktail party and a summer cookout.

We plan to restart the Clergy Spouse Bible Study group in the fall and hope some other spouses will “come and see.”