I was given the following by an elder in our congregation Yesterday.
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Wanted: Elder for Growing Congregation
A real challenge for the right man! Opportunity to become better acquainted with people! Available
immediately for man who qualifies!
Applicant must offer experience as shop worker, office manager, educator, (all levels, including
college), artist, salesman, diplomat, writer, theologian, children's worker, psychologist, vocational
and guidance counselor, psychiatrist, funeral director, wedding consultant, master of ceremonies,
circus clown, missionary, social worker. Helpful, but not essential: butcher, baker and candlestick
maker!
Must know all about problems of birth, marriage and death; also conversant with latest theories
and practices in areas like pediatrics, economics, sports and nuclear science.
Right man will uphold firm views on every topic, but is careful not to upset people who disagree. Must be forthright but flexible: returns criticism and backbiting with Christian love and forgiveness. Education must be beyond Ph.D. requirements, but always concealed in homespun modesty and folksy talk. Able to sound learned at times, but most of the time talks and acts like a "good old Joe." Familiar with literature read by all in the congregation.
Must be willing to work long hours; subject to call any time, day or night; adaptable to sudden interruption. Will spend at least 25 hours preparing parts; additional 10 hours reading books and magazines.
Applicant's wife must be both stunning and plain; smartly attired but conservative in appearance;
gracious and able to get along with everyone. Must be willing to work in kitchen, possess tact,
baby-sit, wait tables, never listen to gossip, never become discouraged.
Applicants children must be exemplary in conduct and character. Well behaved, yet basically no
different from other children; decently dressed.
Directly responsible for views and conduct to all in the congregation members and visitors; not
confined to direction or support from any one member. Takes all instruction and counsel from the
"faithful and discrete slave." Eagerly follow guidance from the governing body, even though may not
know them personally, but knowing that they are correct. No salary! No overtime pay! Great
Benefits! Must be willing to undergo full investigation to be examined spiritually.
All replies kept confidential
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Don't they make you sick, and the sad thing is that this elder believes it.
Your green faced poster
Jem