The literary pastor

In my tradition, candidates for ordination are examined on the floor of our governing body. It’s one of the most dreaded things. In seminary, professors often begin lessons by saying, “Now, if you’re being examined on the floor of Presbytery…”

The actual examination can consist of no questions, or you’ll be interrogated for two hours. There's no telling. I was examined in South Louisiana and one pastor asked me, “Do dogs and cats go to heaven?” I was horrified at the time. Even Karl Barth in his voluminous work did not cover that topic. What was I to say?

I answered, “I don’t know.”