Even though we have made significant progress in accepting all people, many capable and talented people are still closed out of calls because of bias related to marital status. Despite these challenges, however, many of us single people having found suitable support derive a great deal of satisfaction from our work. When I fill my week with some kind of physical activity, a creative outlet, and companionship even if sometimes that comes from a pet I am more balanced. Equally important is a place to worship. This might involve attending evensong at the Anglican Cathedral, or say becoming part of a spirituality group.
Holidays are necessary, too, and pose their own difficulties.
It is usually impossible to plan too far in advance since we may be waiting on several other people s schedules. When a congregation has always had a minister who takes a specific month off to attend a family cottage, it can be confusing to have a single minister who needs to plan holiday time in other ways. Single clergy bring unique and valuable gifts to the church. One is flexibility. I have often been able to stay with someone in crisis until it was over, precisely because I did not have to meet children at the bus, or be home for a specific dinner hour.