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 MY MINISTRY AS A CLOWN
by Gayleen Touhey, Consociate
The Gift of Prayer
The delight and uplifting expression of an 80 year old accepting a "you are special" message tucked inside an empty decorated pill bottle is one of many of my shared prayer experiences.
My clowning ministry engages all ages. I provide a spiritual message to those I come in contact with in many different forms. A special young child waits for a smile and hug while we play peek-a-boo. Singing, laughing and dancing with folks in wheelchairs, and sharing my imaginary friends brings smiles and warmth to those I am with. No matter what the age, our interaction is prayer. St. John's gospel says, "Wherever two or more are gathered, I am with you." St. Therese of Lisieux defines prayer as "an uplifting of the heart, a cry of gratitude and of love in times of sadness as well as joy." My definition of prayer and clowning is the interaction between two or more with whom I have just met.
My chosen clown name is "Rosy Red." It came about after reflecting on my experiences with Sister Rose Tillemans, CSJ. I observed her use of laughter and compassion in difficult circumstances while ministering with the folks at Peace House. And Rosy Red also illustrates my forever joy in wearing red and feeling good in it. It was natural for me to combine these gifts with chaplaincy and spiritual journey work.
It is my theology that differentiates between the clown as entertainer and the clown as minister. I am not the clown that entertains by juggling, forming animals with balloons, or doing slapstick jokes. I am the interacting clown who enjoys having fun, laughing, and encouraging those around me with verbal and non-verbal communication. Mine is a ministry of presence and good humor, enjoying all ages.
Click here to read about clowns as resurrection beings.
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