How to Date a Preacher

Going into a relationship with a preacher, it helps to keep in mind the special responsibilities of the profession.

In many ways, dating a preacher is like dating any other person. The two people involved must enjoy spending time together and see eye to eye on a number of compatibility issues. However, there are few special considerations that you need to keep in mind when dating a person in the religious field. Some are relatively minor, whereas others could be more significant.

Instructions

1. Be sure both you and the preacher are ready and interested in pursuing a relationship together. This step is key for any relationship, and beginning one with a preacher is no different.

2. Keep in mind the preacher's schedule. In most jobs, weekends and the holidays are considered free time, but with a preacher, they usually are some of the busiest times of the year. Remember that a late date Saturday night might not be so feasible when one person has to get up at five in the morning to prepare for a service. And Christmas and Easter would carry additional burdens.

3. Remain aware of the preacher's reputation in the church. The preacher may be a boyfriend to you, but he is a spiritual leader and confidant to the people of his church. Respect that position if interacting with him around church members, and remember that some discussions you'd like to have with him might best be handled in private.

4. Be aware of his values. Generally, a person decides to become a preacher because he has a serious belief in the values his church provides and he wants to spread those values to others. If you do not see eye to eye on some issues at the outset, it could be difficult for the preacher to compromise those values for the relationship, as he has made a significant commitment to stay true to them.

Tips & Warnings

• Although dating a preacher does carry some unique aspects, the most important things hold true in that relationship as they do in others. Be a good listener, aware of your partner's needs, and generally treat him as you would any other significant person in your life.

References

• jesus-is-savior.com: Dating with a Purpose by Pastor Jack Schaap