In light of the recent article of Chamberlayne Baptist Church's success with calling a new pastor [“Insights gleaned from a pastor search committee,” Feb. 22], I wanted to submit this letter I wrote a number of months ago to a Virginia Baptist church (names have been changed). Unfortunately, this is not the only church that has treated ministry candidates poorly.
“To the Search Committee of X Baptist Church: Many months ago I sent Jack Smith's résumé to your church for him to be considered for your minister of music. Jack had very positive encounters with committee and staff members, both on the phone and in person at the end of May 2006. He was treated well during his visit with you and appreciated the opportunity to seek God's guidance in this process. He was told around May 25 that the committee planned to inform him of the next step in the process within two weeks time (that would be mid-June). Jack used his own credit card to purchase his airline ticket with the full understanding that he would be reimbursed for the expense.
“I am disgusted and terribly disappointed by how poorly Jack was treated after this encounter. He even sent two emails to follow up with the process. As Christians I would have hoped better manners would have been employed as Jack was never contacted as to your decision. I am appalled as I entrusted a Virginia Baptist church to show better hospitality and kindness as he offered time and energy to your search. Jack came to learn your decision by visiting your website which had been giving updates on the search. Of course, he was praying for God's guidance on all parts and though disappointed that he was not chosen, the disappointment and anger was far greater for the manner in which you chose to not communicate with him.
“After making a phone call to your financial director, Jack was once again treated poorly when enquiring about his reimbursement check that had not been received as of July 17. I understand, now, after talking with an associate pastor of your church that just recently approval was granted to send Jack a check. This again, shows a lack of respect and rudeness as Jack was with you in May and should have been reimbursed immediately.
“My prayer is that churches will begin to understand that manners are important, that Christian kindness and respect are necessary when searching for a minister. I also hope the next time X Baptist Church is searching for a minister that better manners will be shown to all candidates.”
Trisha Miller Manarin, McLean