Shared Ministry: The Vicar and the Curate
By Ven.Dr Onyeka Egwuonwu
The Vicar, as the Incumbent, and the Curate, whether an Assistant Priest or Deacon, are sent into the ministry of the Church.
This ministry must be understood as a shared responsibility, because the ministry belongs first to Christ and is entrusted to us for His service.
The Church draws from the missionary pattern of Christ, who sent His disciples two by two (Luke 10:1). One may lead by office and experience, while the other follows in learning, service and development. This arrangement should therefore promote cooperation rather than competition.
If we truly understand that the ministry belongs to Christ, there should be no place for unnecessary rivalry, struggle for recognition or competition among clergy. Personal ambition must never strangle the ministry entrusted to us by Christ.
The Vicar, as the senior clergy, is expected to mentor, guide and develop those serving with him. For the junior clergy, the period is one of discipline, learning, exposure and benefiting from the wisdom and experience of the senior.
It is also a test of Christian team spirit. Clergy are called to serve together for the advancement of God’s Kingdom. If a person cannot work peacefully and faithfully with a brother or sister in ministry, we must ask what spirit is governing that ministry.
The ministry is Christ’s; we are only fellow servants. Therefore, let us serve together, learn from one another and build the Church rather than compete with one another.
Ven.Dr. Onyeka Egwuonwu is the Archdeacon CHS Awka Archdeaconry and Vicar, Church of The Holy Spirit Awka
