Bivocational and covocational ministry as the new norm in congregational ministry is one of those often unnoticed and under-reported trends that will send shockwaves through religious systems (theological schools, denominations, and their networks) once it reaches the tipping point of its impact on enrollments in seminaries, the economics of denominations, the nature of pastoral vocations, models of congregational ministry, and other critical factors in the American religious landscape.
Lifelong learning through professional continuing education programs is usually a universal practice but not for clergy.
Systems with acute anxiety and the reactivity it engenders are episodic. Its shelf life is as long as the length of the crisis.
There are many persistent myths about leadership. Pastors and lay leaders alike are subject to many mixed messages about what leadership is.
There are many persistent leadership myths. Pastors and lay leaders alike are subject to many mixed messages about what leadership is.
The effects of culture, modernity, and post-modernity continue to reshape the congregation as an expression of the Church.
Complaining about younger co-workers and staff may be a way to vent frustration for an older supervisor, senior pastor, or head of staff but perhaps it’s better to consider how one can mentor or guide a “project” into maturity, helping them grow from amateur to professional.
My friend understood his new role, but needed clarity about his function in the congregation he was promoted in.
Guessing people’s motives becomes a form of mindreading. Focusing on how a person functions is more helpful than what he or she says.
