Transition - courtship

My transition story continues ...

 

The roller coaster ride of searching for future direction was coming closer to the end, but there was one more major loop to go through. Being contacted by the Pacific Northwest Association for serious consideration was quite exciting, not only because it was a breakthrough in my search but because it was an area of ministry in which I am gifted, and have passion and experience. While pastoral ministry is still close to my heart (as I believe that it is through the local church where ministry ultimately takes place), I know that I have much to contribute at the district level to better equip congregations and leaders do their important work.

 

But, perhaps I was getting ahead of myself. They were interested in me, but we were still at an early stage in our fledgling courtship. We still needed to have some serious discussions. They needed to check out my references. And, I had to learn more about the association and the expectations for this position.

 

All of these things we did. The process was good, and we were all convinced that this relationship was of God.

 

But, the most unnerving part of all this was not the intense discussions or seeking God's confirmation. It was conducting this courtship in secrecy from my congregation. Everything had to be done clandestinely, and our entire family was regularly reminded to be very careful not to accidentally leak anything. It would be devastating for the church and my ministry with this group.

 

I felt like I was cheating. Here I was working with my church as if everything was normal, and behind the scenes I was "seeing someone else". I remember the day I made a whirlwind one-day trip to and from Seattle for my interview. It was all done as inconspicuously as possible. Hopefully no one would face a major emergency expecting me to interrupt my day off. If so, how would I explain myself?

 

I don't want to over-dramatize it all, but conducting a search while still in the midst of ministry is not an easy thing to do. I believe what made this especially difficult for me is my love for the congregation I pastor. As stated in a previous post, there was no pressure for me to leave. I love this church and the people. My guilt for cheating was not just because I am conscientious. It was because I really care for this congregation and don't want to hurt them.

 

By mid-July the new courtship with the PNA was close to reaching a point of decision. My wife and I traveled to Washington for the district Family Camp, at which time I would be presented before a special called meeting of the district ministers and delegates. Up to this point I had dealt with the Search Committee, but now I was being taken home to "meet the parents". They would grill me on all the matters of importance for them, leading to a ratification vote. In the end the vote was around 93% and the ball was now in my court to accept the calling.

 

But that would mean resignation. More on that in a future post ...

 

High Church of God birthrate?

While all the details aren't readily available to me, it appears that according to a study presented at the Assocation of the Sociology of Religion there might be a direct relationship between conservative religious groups and the fertility rate among their members. Mormons and Mennonites had the highest rates, with Church of God (Anderson, IN), Church of The Nazarene, and Pentecostal groups also high. Liberal denominations like the Episcopal Church and Unitarians had the lowest rates. The study's author, Conrad Hackett of Princeton University, suggests it may be because of church's "natalist culture". He finds evidence of this in a correlation with the percentage of women who have a bachelor's degree.

 

Accurate. Likely. Useless information. Perhaps. But interesting nonetheless.

 

LINK to a story and commentary from The Henry Institute of The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

 

Transition - searching

Continuing on my transition journey...

 

With the decision clarified as to whether I was to stay at or leave my present congregation, the natural next step was determining where I was to go next. That was not clear. And, in many ways having a new calling would be a further confirmation that leaving was the right thing to do. If God wants me to move on I was convinced that a new ministry would be open for me.

 

So, the search process began. To be honest, my investigation of opportunities began without too much vigor. Perhaps it was my continuing struggle with the whole notion of leaving, but my search was never an aggressive pursuit.

 

Things have changed in the 6-7 years since I last went through this. Church of God Ministries now has their own version of "monster.com", providing a much more effective way for churches and ministers to connect with each other. Even just e-mail itself has revolutionized things. Nevertheless, the whole process is still somewhat awkward and far from as effective as it should be. (Also, see Church of God blogger Dustin Sells' reflections on "The Hiring Process in Churches", part 2, part 3, part 4).

 

In the end I only applied at a few churches and, of course, for the position I eventually accepted. In most cases, I had some very positive responses from the search committees. With one church in particular I ended up having some very serious discussions. However, there was a point in the process where it appeared that all doors were closed, and that a move might not be as imminent as I originally anticipated. Even the Area Administator position in the Pacific Northwest Association appeared out of the picture based on what was conveyed to me.

 

The entire search process is often a roller coaster ride. At times there is an enthusiastic optimism concerning some of the opportunties, but when things don't go as expected it is very easy to feel dejected and frustrated. It was very important throughout to remain spiritually grounded and to trust God's leading. I was praying a lot.

 

The emotional ups and downs can be exhausting, especially if it drags on. Fortunately I was not sensing desperation, but my heart goes out to ministers who have tighter time frames to find a new church. My last search experience was way too long, and I certainly did not want to go through that again.

 

It was at one of those low points that I got a call from the PNA asking if I was still interested in their position. They had come to a realization that their own search was not going as expected, and that after going back to square one and re-examining the applications my name was coming to the forefront.

 

A new courtship was about to begin. More in my next post...

 

Transition - decision

It was suggested to me that I share some personal reflections on the process I have been going through in my own life, having recently resigned from my church and looking forward to a new role beginning in November. Over the next week or so I will do that.

 

Pastoral transition is rarely easy. Not only for the congregation but for the minister. In secular vocations the decision to leave one job for another is usually less complicated. Advancement, more money, or better working conditions typically make the choice straightforward. Although seeking God's will should be part of all decision-making, the context of spiritual community places greater pressure on ministers to get it right.

 

I'm sure all pastors have experienced the stress of deciding when it is best to resign and move on to a new call. In recent months a couple of other Church of God bloggers (Jeffrey Frymire and Ken DeMaere) have shared some of their resignation experiences. For me, the inkling that a transition was possible began several months ago. It was becoming more and more apparent that I was no longer the good fit with this church as I was almost six years ago when we first came in contact with each other. Since becoming their pastor we have had many tremendous times together, and the church has experienced signficant transformation. A large proportion of the people are new, and the ministry focus and direction of the church has changed dramatically. For pastors who have struggled getting their church to make even the smallest change, my situation might be perceived as ideal. It has been good. These are wonderful people. We love the city. Our family is somewhat settled here. On the surface there were no apparent reasons to leave. In fact, we fought against any notion of leaving.

 

But, as I looked at the situation honestly I began to see that with all the changes we have gone through the church needed a pastor with different gifts and strengths to lead them to the next level of their growth and development. I remain convinced that I was the right person for them at the time and with the issues they were facing, but I could sense that my time here was like Moses leading the children of Israel through the wilderness. A Joshua was now required to take them to the Promised Land.

 

Confirming this insight meant much prayer, long discussions with my wife, consultation with individuals I trust, and even a few restless nights. God speaks to us in a number of ways, and it became clear from all directions that my hunches were more than just that. Naturally, a big concern is that such a decision is being made on purely emotional grounds or for selfish reasons. I was also somewhat frustrated with the fact that I was not living up to one of my values: long pastorates. Nevertheless, all indications were that I had been used of God in this location and that my staying was likely not in the best long-term interest of this congregation that I love.

 

Once this decision to leave was arrived at, I tentatively began the next phase of the transition journey. The question now was: "OK, God, if you want me to leave, where am I to go?" More on that in my next post.

 

Strategic Planning Council - Day three

We had three hours Friday to wrap up our time together. Our morning would include another breakout group, and a closing session to tie everything up. The latter objective seemed to be reached, although I initially had my doubts. After all breakout groups had shared their reflections on Ron Duncan's framework (see Day One), it was his turn to reply back to the conference. Each attendee was also asked to submit a written statement, indicating the unique, personal commitment to the next steps they would take, followed by a meaningful act of anointing of each delegate.

The ultimate question everyone reading this is asking (and I myself asked) is: So what are the real results that will come as a result of our gathering in Nashville?

Of course, this is not the final step in the lengthy, ongoing process in which we find ourselves. The cumulative results of all that happened in the last two days will need to be compiled and digested. That will begin immediately and hopefully lead to more concrete actions.

Admittedly it can be frustrating for those of us who are impatient with seemingly never-ending consultations, meetings, and discussions. We must eventually move beyond conferences to action. And, there was a point after Thursday's grueling day that I wondered whether anything significant could come out of this jumbled collection of disparate ideas and visions. In truth, we really needed an additional day to adequately complete our task.

Yet, it was apparent by the time we were done at noon, our accomplishment was more significant than we might have initially realized. The real outcome of this Strategic Planning Conference will likely not be measured by the tangible conclusions we arrived at, but by the intangible results that we experienced. What was apparent to me and to everyone I talked to is that there is a new spirit of cooperation and hope within the Church of God in North America. We were openly discussing core issues related to our being, identity and mission. There are new attitudes being expressed, and relationships restored and strengthened. While we still have obstacles to overcome, structures to refine, opportunities to take advantage of, and pockets of discontent to deal with, there is a growing willingness to put our doctrine of unity into practice at least through our own internal cooperation. Dr. Duncan's positive spirit and servant heart are making it easier to trust his leadership and to follow the vision with which he is challenging us.

In short, there were significant strides made these last few days.

Communication in the Church of God

From the analysis report of the recent Church of God survey by Deodandum Marketing Communications:

"Individuals seemed to spend a lot of time talking about communication and how to improve it. But, for a movement its size, the Church of God seems to have more vehicles to communicate, and spend more time and money on communication in person, electronically, and in print, than many other movements or denominations that are much larger. Perhaps it isn't a failure to communicate so much as an inability to listen to, or to accept the legitimacy and efficacy of what is being communicated, or the authority of those communicating."

Strategic Planning Council - Day two

Today was a solid work day at the SPC. From 9:00am (actually 7:30 for me because of an additional, unrelated breakfast meeting) to after 9:00pm we were in some sort of meeting. There were a few small breaks (one lasting almost 45 minutes!) but every minute seemed to be taken up, even meal times involved assigned discussions.

Our work today was centered around participation in small breakout groups, with periodic reporting back to the larger group. I can't say that anything earth-shattering took place, although some passionate and thoughtful discussions and presentations were noticed. Obviously the big task will be compiling all of these ideas following the Conference.

Time to get to bed in order to be ready for our wrap-up tomorrow and long trip back home.

Strategic Planning Council - Day one

My trek to Nashville began with waking at 2:45am in order to catch a 6:00am flight. I arrived mid-afternoon, but had little time for rest before activities began at dinner, followed by an evening general session. So Wednesday was a long day for me. Looking at our jam-packed agenda, it appears that the next two days will likely feel just as long.

The Strategic Planning Conference is comprised of not quite 150 leaders from across North America, representing state/regional delegates and national leaders. The purpose of this gathering is part of a multi-year process of determining how the Church of God can be more focused and effective in its ministries, particularly within our North American organization.

Wednesday's opening session was to set the pace for all that we will grapple with over the coming two days. Crammed into a relatively small hotel ballroom we began our evening under the musical leadership of Jay Rouse. Ray Rood, our facilitator, was introduced. He works for a change management consulting firm, and has had connections recently with Warner Pacific College. Quoting organizational expert Bob Quinn, Rood briefly challenged us with the observation that all organizations are moving along one of two paths, either deep transformational change or a slow death. The choice we make will depend on sufficient leadership.

The bulk of the session was a presentation by Ron Duncan. He stated that he believes “this is a watershed event in the life of the Church of God” and that radical transformation is needed. We have faced three major crises and one major reorganization with the last twenty-five years, and on top of that significant canes have been occurring in our culture. In Duncan's view, from this Conference we must “build a solid foundation for a flexible ministry future in which we resource the local congregation”. There are three building blocks that will make this happen:

1. Restoration of key relationships among Church of God leaders.
2. Return to the basics of the New Testament church.
3. Renewal of collaborative ministries.

Duncan elaborated on these three building blocks, drawing upon results from the recent church-wide survey that was conducted and his own observations. Much of the work of Conference delegates over the remaining two days will be to build on these ideas and provide working answers to the questions that arise out of them.

Obviously there is more detail here than I can share in this post, but hopefully it will provide an overview of the nature of our gathering. I sense a strong spirit among those in attendance, and am impressed with the age diversity of delegates (although less impressed with the gender breakdown).

Please continue to pray for us at the Conference.

Update

I've been silent here for the last couple of weeks, with other matters requiring more attention than blogging. Of course, there's all the transition stuff going on around me, but I was able to take a much-needed five day vacation with my wife as well.

 

Tomorrow (Wednesday) I head to Nashville for the Strategic Planning Council of the Church of God. I plan (depending on Internet access) to provide a daily update on this blog for those of you curious and concerned about our discussions.

 

Review: What's Right with the Church of God?

This year Warner Press published several new books, including a couple that provide self-examination and reflection for the Church of God. Previously, I have already reviewed Jerry Hickson's Are You Sure You're Right?

 

When I first heard about its upcoming release, I knew I wanted to read What's Right with the Church of God: A Challenge to Ministry Leaders (Warner Press, 2006). The title alone intrigued me, since it appeared to provide a positive look at our movement, hopefully without resorting to idealistic, self-absorption. I was looking forward to reading the book.

 

After completing J. Thomas Pelt's work I was left confused.  In fact, I struggle to even say for sure what the book is really about. The back cover says it's about "what we should celebrate ... and what we should change", but the real thrust of the writing seems to go in other directions.

 

This is not to say that it is a bad book. Pelt is senior pastor of First Church of God in Ashland, Kentucky, and by all accounts he leads a thriving, growing congregation. Without question Pelt is passionate about the church and loves our movement. He really does want to challenge us as leaders, as congregations and even collectively to "heed the dreams God has given us and be willing to make things happen, even if it means blazing a new trail and going by a different route than we have used before." (p. 109). The book is full of his own observations on ministry and suggestions as to how we can revitalize it. There are a wide range of chapter topics, including: "Traditionalism", "Methodology Matters", "Reckless Autonomy", and even "Where Would Jesus Hold Campmeeting?". It's a potpourri collection of reflections, ideas and admonitions. There are some valid points throughout. Lacking, however, is a consistent thread or clear purpose to bring them all together.

 

The book reflects a pastor's heart (as Pelt confesses in the Preface). I've never met the author, but from his writing style he appears to be a real go-getter. A no-nonsense, "let's get it done" kind of guy. This is probably why the book seems to energetically bounce around all over the place, and the arguments are sometimes simplistic and even abrupt.

 

I guess my biggest problem with the book goes back to the title. If the book was billed as a writing of a pastor sharing his experiences and counsel to help congregations and their leaders I would have found it easier to digest. I was expecting something more.

 

From CHOG Blog to ONEvoice!

CHOG Blog readers may be interested to learn that I have been asked to provide a regular column for ONEvoice! magazine, with the first installment to appear this fall. I will be taking over the CLOSERlook column which is designed to explore "doctrinal topics related to polity and theology from a fresh perspective that should be both challenging and relevant to today's church." This is one of a number of changes that are supposed to be coming to ONEvoice! later this year.

 

While I am looking forward to the opportunity to contribute to the larger church in this manner, it is a daunting responsibility. It's one thing to write opinionized rants on my blog; but another to provide something more substantive to a broader audience. I hope that I can meet the challenge and that my writing will be helpful and constructive.

 

I submitted my first column for yesterday's submission deadline despite having very little time to come up with something since being asked. I'm not completely satisfied with my first attempt, but I'm looking forward to some of the topics I want to explore in subsequent issues.

 

I just hope that they don't require one of those full-body photos to accompany the column!

 

Kurt Johnston on us and the Church

Last week at IYC Kurt Johnston, Junior High Pastor at Saddleback, was the speaker at the Youth Ministry Institute for leaders (which I attended). On his blog he offers some brief perceptions on the Church of God and our convention. Even though he calls us a "denomination", he understands the "Big Body of Christ".

 

Transition

Yesterday I did one of those most dreaded things: I announced to my congregation that I am resigning as their pastor.

 

What made this especially difficult is that this is a good church, we love the people, and there are no problems making it necessary for us to leave. Nevertheless, it was becoming more and more apparent that they need a different type of leadership to reflect the changed nature of the congregation. God has confirmed to me that I am no longer the best person for them. Yet, in light of our good relationship and to assist them with a healthy transition period I have given them ninety days notice of my departure.

 

On November 1st I will begin a new role, that of Area Administrator for the Pacific Northwest Assocation of the Church of God. This is an exciting opportunity that has recently opened up for me, and fits well with my gifts and extensive experience in district-related ministry. I look forward to working with approximately fifty churches in northern Idaho, northeastern Oregon, and most of Washington. There are some tremendous leaders and churches in this region, and all face the challenge of living in perhaps the most secularized part of the United States.

 

I would appreciate your prayers for my family and me as we face changes brought on by all of this.

 

And, despite those who jokingly suggest I am going to "the dark side", I plan on continuing to blog. In fact, I am committed to working even harder to seeing Church of God congregations and leaders strengthened in order to be more effective for the mission to which God has called us.

 

Our witness in Anaheim

Following the North American Convention in June I posted on our "witness in Anderson" based on the blog of a local resident.

 

We also need to be aware of the impact, both positive and negative, of our youth this past week in Anaheim. As I mentioned, on Thursday over 5000 of us went out on mission projects around Orange County. I know that we made a significant contribution to the people in the areas visited, and that our witness was strong.

 

But, not all is positive. The most disappointing aspect of IYC this year was the general behavior of the youth in the hotels and convention area. I suppose that this is nothing new, and is likely to some degree whenever you put that many teenagers together in one place. But, this year seemed worse than I can remember in recent conventions. The hotel hallways were busy, loud thoroughfares and gathering places late into the night (and early into the mornings). Excessive trash was evident. And, there were some isolated incidents that involved security and even the police.

 

What really brought this home to me (apart from the noise outside my door) was when I checked out of the hotel Friday morning. Adjacent to me along the Hilton's registration counter was a couple there to complain to hotel management about their disruptive experiences the night before. I made a point to talk to them after, offering my apologies on behalf of the throngs of us staying in the hotel. They seemed to be understanding of the realities of adolescent energy, and were more upset with the hotel for placing them among us than they were at the youth or the church. Nevertheless, is the kind of impression we are wanting to make as "grace agents"?

 

I know that the IYC staff went to great lengths to drill delegates and leaders on hotel etiquette and general behavior. But, obviously it didn't sink in. In many ways, I blame adults accompanying the students for not keeping closer tabs on their groups. And, all of this confirms some of the increasing suspicions concerning the lack of difference between most Christian youth and their unchurched counterparts. Certainly many present were providing a strong, consistent witness to hotel workers and guests, but the actions of a few have the potential to negate that which is positive.

 

IYC - Day four

Why does it have to end so soon?

 

Today concluded the 2006 International Youth Convention. In fact, it wasn't even a full day. Apart from checking out of the hotel and saying our good-byes, there was only a morning service on the agenda. Chris Tomlin was back. The message, focused on "purpose", was brought by Phil Jackson, a pastor at the House Covenant Church in Chicago, a renowned hip-hop church. A large number of youth committed themselves to full-time ministry by the end of the morning.

 

Like always IYC was a tremendous event, even for an "old" guy like me. The youth from our church really enjoyed the week, and most were spiritually challenged by the whole experience. I can't say that it was the "best" of all the IYC's I've attended, but I am nevertheless impressed by the exceptional work that the Youth Ministry Team and Andy Stephenson put into making this event a significant opportunity for Church of God youth.

 

See you in San Antonio in 2008!

 

IYC - Day three

Today is "mission project" day at IYC. Recent conventions have included a mission component which gives youth a real life experience in putting their faith into practice within the world. At 7am our group was scheduled to line-up to wait for a bus that would take us to our yet to be revealed location. "Impact Orange County" placed youth at variety of locations, including parks, schools, and to assist in the launching of a new church plant. Our bus took us to Wallace R. Davis Elementary School in Santa Ana, a school serving an underprileged and needy neighborhood. We were with over 100 IYC "Grace Agents" who descended on the property to spruce it up both on the outside and the inside. For over an hour and a half we picked up trash, swept up dirt and cleaned up rooms. The staff present where overwhelmed with our invasion. Before leaving they took the time to describe the community and the unique needs of the school, and strongly expressed their gratitude for the work we performed, which otherwise would not get done. I was especially impacted by the comment that they've had many church groups come around who just want to "talk" (i.e. preach) at them, but we were actually putting our faith into action. Before leaving they allowed us to pray for the school and the staff present.After an afternoon of free time, we reconvened in the arena for the evening service. Tonight's theme was on community, and featured speaker David Edwards. Chris Tomlin made a return appearance to IYC for the first time in four years, and led with his intensive worship style. The evening was capped off with the traditional "silent walk" (this goes back at least 30 years since my first experience with it) that led to a big "parking lot" behind the convention center and across the street from Disney and their evening fireworks display. Each group had the opportunity to build their community experience by celebrating communion.

IYC - Day two

Wednesday was "conference" day at IYC, with a full slate of options for high school students, college age individuals, and YMI (Youth Ministry Institute) for youth workers.

At dinner I enjoyed a special meal for Senior Pastors hosted by Ronald Duncan and our colleges. A relatively small event, but a valuable time for networking. And, a decent meal compared to the regular convention fare.

The evening service focused on the healing aspect of grace. Music was led by a fresh, original worship artist, Jami Smith. The message was a powerful story delivered by Debbie Morris, a victim of a vicious attack by the culprit featured in the movie, Dead Man Walking.

Got to get to bed. Our service project begins at 7am!

IYC - Day one

Apart from the unusually hot, humid weather it's great to be in Anaheim. And, I don't mean all the Disney kitsch (although I do confess to visiting the tourist mecca Monday). It's time for IYC! Maybe it's because it only takes place every two years, or because of all the youthful enthusiasm around here, but there's great anticipation leading up to the International Youth Convention. For example, the video countdown at the keynote service contributes to the excitement. And then when it finally starts everything is dramatic, even youth ministry team leader Andy Stephenson entered the Anaheim Convention Center arena in a Hummer! David Crowder, a return favorite from IYC 2004, provided his energetic brand of music. The highlight for me was to hear Erwin McManus, pastor of Mosaic church in Los Angeles. He did a masterful job of addressing youth, telling them that "grace equals crazy love".This year's IYC is a little smaller than normal, with only around 5000 registrants (this is not the Midwest!). The arena setting for the services is a nice change, providing a more intimate environment than at recent IYC's.Now that I'm back in my room, unwinding from the late night David Crowder concert, I can get ready for a good night's sleep and full day tomorrow.One last note. I had the privilege to meet fellow blogger Randy Bennett at Starbucks. Meeting people and connecting with friends is another great reason to come to these events!

Off to IYC

Within a few days thousands of youth and their leaders will be converging on Anaheim for the 2006 International Youth Convention of the Church of God. I have the privilege of accompanying youth from my congregation.

 

Despite my delusions I am no longer classified as a "youth", but I love IYC and attend at every opportunity (in fact, this will be my 10th IYC!). IYC, in my opinion, is the finest event the Church of God puts on at this scale and level.

 

When I can find a spare moment after hanging out with our youth, I will attempt to post my observations on this blog. Watch for them, hopefully beginning Tuesday night or Wednesday morning.

 

(NOTE: If any CHOG Blog readers will be in Anaheim next week contact me by leaving a message at the Hilton Anaheim where I will be staying. I'd love to meet you!)

 

Supporting Pastors

A couple of months ago I posted on "The Stresses of Ministry", indicating that I have come in contact with a number of pastors who are not only feeling stressed, but in some cases even ready to leave their church or ministry altogether. I'm sure there have been always been extra challenges facing those in vocational ministry, but it still is a valid concern for us to address in the Church of God.

 

There are no simplistic solutions, but let me share some of the key ideas that I have been thinking about in recent months:

 

1. Relational Support. It is far too easy for our pastors to be isolated, not only geographically, but also relationally. Sure, sometimes it's his/her fault for not taking advantage of meaningful connections that are available. The recent experimentation with SHAPE in some regions has been positive, and could provide an on-going mechanism for all ministers once expanded across North America. Of course, programs like this will only work if people participate. Would it be too radical for our polity to require all credentialed ministers to demonstrate that they are involved in some sort of formal support system?

 

2. Increased Education and Training. This topic can be controversial in our circles, especially if one were to suggest a minimum level of education required for ordination. Certainly the new Credentials Manual takes this position, but at the same time provides many alternative tracks, thereby lessening the recommendation of a seminary education. True, a seminary education does not guarantee the development of a good pastor, but apart from one it is difficult for someone to obtain the substantive theological education and professional training that is needed in many of the complex contexts in which we expect pastors to minister. Having said all of this, I also recognize that requiring more education is in itself an incomplete solution. As a church (both local and national) we must step up to the plate and provide greater funding to make it possible for those called to ministry to get the best preparation possible without imposing an unbearable financial burden on them. (NOTE: I still have more to say on education in the Church of God, but that will have to wait for another post).

 

3. Appropriate Compensation. I'm sure every pastor believes that he or she is not paid what they are really worth, and most congregations feel that they are unable to pay any more because of the limited financial resources available. Obviously there are bigger issues at stake here, including stewardship, and our preponderance of congregations heavily invested in building assets often at the detriment of long-term cash flow sustainability. Nevertheless, we must raise the bar on compensation for our pastors. The Board of Pensions has provided a great service to the church by developing some very helpful guidelines that should be taken more seriously. For those congregations that cannot meet these standards, there should be a greater openness to exploring different models of pastoral service (e.g. bi-vocational and multi-charge pastorates) or leveraging their abundant capital assets.

 

4. Accountability.  We cringe at this word in the Church of God. I am the last person who would ever call for a top-down structure that imposes itself on our congregations and leaders, but we all must be willing to accept the biblical models of accountability and interdependence if we are to remain healthy. These must be based more on covenants than pronouncements. Ministers must be willing to be personally accountable, and this is best accomplished through strong relationships (see #1 above). Congregations must also be willing to be taken to task for their organizational and relational dysfunctionalities, because often it is the Pastor who bears the brunt of them.

 

I'm sure there is more that can be said regarding the building and maintaining of healthy, effective pastors. I'd love to read some of your comments on the matter.