FIVE STAGES IN YOUR MINISTRY DEVELOPMENT
Signs of progress to mark your growth as a church leader.
Mark H. Senter III
April 1, 1989
Throughout my eighteen years in pastoral ministry, in three different churches, I found myself asking some questions. I was surprised to find the questions didn't change even though my ministry positions did-from youth and children's ministry on a small staff in a changing urban neighborhood to youth ministry on a two-person staff in a booming new suburb to Christian education ministry on a large staff in a stable, college town. In each setting, I pondered issues like these: Why did a mistake cause people to lose trust in one pastor, when a similar mistake could be overlooked in another? Why did I encounter walls of resistance, when later, asking for much the same thing, I found little hesitancy? Why did I feel stretched and excited, yet at other times bored-in the same job? Where was I growing and going in my ministry? What should I head toward? Where should I put my energies? I tend to analyze things, and as I observed and talked with others and continued to reflect, I began to see some patterns. In fact, I've come to believe there are distinct stages in any minister's development. Seeing these stages answered many of my questions. Stage 1: Getting Acquainted
When you first come to a church, there's a tremendous sense of euphoria and relief. The board or senior pastor is thinking, We finally got the person we need. Things are going to move ahead now. And you're thinking, I finally found the right church. It's much like a honeymoon. Now, what's a honeymoon for? To start a major project with your new partner, like remodeling a house? No, it's a time devoted to enjoying and finding out about each other. Consequently, two tasks confront pastors during this Getting Acquainted period: 1. Talk to as many people as you can. I'd contact ...
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