Have you ever been in a church whose pastor resigned to leave the ministry? It’s an unsettling proposition for all involved. Yet, too often, it is the … [Read more...] about Pastoral Care: Ministering to the pastor
Staffing for Survival
What is the most important staff position at your church? Of course, as a former pastor, I must declare that we cannot function without a pastor. But … [Read more...] about Staffing for Survival
Pastor, Please Stop!
Becoming an effective, emotionally intelligent pastor requires more than delivering a good sermon, making timely hospital visits, and scheduling … [Read more...] about Pastor, Please Stop!
The Conflict Pandemic
Whenever I address a group about the work our organization does, I mention that one of our frequent calls is to help a congregation, staff, … [Read more...] about The Conflict Pandemic
Holding your staff accountable
Previously, I suggested that the starting point for bringing health and effectiveness to a church’s ministerial staff is the critical work of … [Read more...] about Holding your staff accountable
Curbing an epidemic
There is a consistent theme in the conversations I have with clergy and laity alike about what frustrates or challenges them most. Without a doubt it … [Read more...] about Curbing an epidemic
When the cavalry doesn’t come
The seasoned minister was addressing a group of young clergy and talking about some of the lessons learned on the job. You know, the ones you can’t … [Read more...] about When the cavalry doesn’t come
Search Committee Ethics
A recent column about some of the positive experiences of clergy who have recently moved motivated some responses around the theme of “things that … [Read more...] about Search Committee Ethics
So, you want to be a minister?
The landscape of hiring and managing staff is rapidly changing for congregations. What are the implications for the men and women who desire to serve … [Read more...] about So, you want to be a minister?