Who, what, why?  Questions I have been asked

when I have announced myself as an Associate Member of Broken Rites. 

Who?  Our President for one, some Bishops; some Bishop’s Visitors; some clergy spouses; some clergy; some churches and some church members.  It is nice to know that they are there and their support of BR is very welcome.  

What?  An Associate Member is someone who, although they have not personally been through the experience of clergy divorce, is sympathetic to, and supportive of, those who have; and who demonstrate this by at least paying their subscription every year.  

Why?  Some are involved in various ways with those whose marriages have broken down.  Some appreciate the issues and just quietly register their support.  A few get more involved.

But what is the point of being an Associate Member? Apart from the practical matter of contributing to the finances, how could they help BR?  How can we tap into this reservoir of goodwill and make them feel valued and appreciated.  BR rightly reserves the role of Officer for those who are full members, but there are roles Associates could play.  

Perhaps they might live near the venue for Church Assemblies, Annual Conferences or Synods, and be able to help with publicity for BR at these events.

Perhaps they have contacts within church offices or organisations that they could talk to about BR, asking for BR information to be included in church publications (e.g. handbooks) or on websites, reminding people that BR is there, and that the problems of clergy marriage breakdown persist. 

Perhaps they could approach their own local churches, asking for BR to be considered when the church makes its charitable giving allocations.

Perhaps they could be a BR ‘bore’, telling everyone they meet about the plight of clergy spouses when marriages break down and the help and support BR can give.  They could encourage others to join.  Many people have never given the subject a thought, and are open and interested when given the chance. 

Perhaps they have ideas, skills or access to resources that could help BR.  The Committee is to produce an Action Plan of tasks and projects that BR would like to undertake; perhaps an Associate will be just the person to spearhead one of these.  Look for details in future Rite Lines.  This may mean you!

I look back over my years of Associate Membership which started when I was a young clergy wife, feeling quite isolated and vulnerable. BR was addressing a unique need that seemed to be largely ignored. I was struck by the friendliness and by the strength of these women who had been through frankly devastating experiences, and over the years have tried to use resources at my disposal to help and support in any way I can.   I have gained much from my membership and I urge others to think how they too could contribute.