The Minister

I mastered pastoral theology, the Greek of the Apostles, and all the

difficult subjects in a minister's carriculum.

I was as learned as any in this country when the Bishop ordained me.

And I went to preside over Mount Moriah, largest flock in the

Conference.

I preached the word as I felt it, I visited the sick and dying and

comforted the afflicted in spirit.

I loved my work because I loved my God.

But I lost my charge to Sam Jenkins, who has not been to school four

years in his life.

I lost my charge because I could not make my congregation shout.

And my dollar money was small, very small.

Sam Jenkins can tear the Bible to tatters and his congregation destroys

the pews with their shouting and stamping.

Sam Jenkins leads in the gift of raising dollar money.

Such is religion.