Young Pastor's Early Career Missteps

A pastor reflects on beginning his ministry at age 20, noting several avoidable errors. He accepted a full‑time calling with part‑time pay, worked excessive overtime which caused an ulcer, and took a semester off school. He advertised for a new pianist despite already having one, and later discovered he owed a full year of self‑employment taxes to the IRS. He recounts traveling alone with women parishioners, avoiding collaboration with other pastors, and unexpectedly asking a man to read Scripture aloud. The lack of follow‑up after evangelism led to a congregation of “baby believers,” and he occasionally preached sermons written by other pastors. He also took on numerous logistical tasks, from checking water levels in the cistern to purchasing audio equipment and even acting as a mediator in street disputes.