SEMINAR/WORKSHOPS
Churches in Pastoral
Transition
The
search for a new pastor may be the most crucial decision a
church ever makes. Pastoral terms continue to decrease with
churches changing pastors as often as every two or three years.
The effects on the churches and pastors are often very
difficult.
Why is this happening? A number of reasons could be
noted. The expectations of the pastor or church may be
unrealistic. A mismatch of gifts and ministry style is often
realized. There are many additional reasons and contributing
factors.
How can the church avoid recurring pastoral difficulties?
Some
of the difficulties can be avoided by making the time without a
pastor a time to clarify objectives. Thus, enabling both the
church and a new pastor to be better able to work toward the
same objectives.
The Value of a Consultant
“In
the multitude of counselors there is safety” (Proverbs
11:14). Churches going through pastoral transition can benefit
from the counsel of others.
BBM offers workshops and consultation ministries to
come alongside churches during these times of transition. A goal
is to help churches form a basic outline of a vision for the
local church. Defining priorities before affirming a new pastor
can help to make for a smother transition and enable the church
to grow with “the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace”
(Eph. 4:3).
The approach is not to present a program but to enable
the church to discover it’s uniqueness and potential.
Pastoral Transition
Workshop Topics Include:
- Examining biblical
principles related to pastoral transition
- Evaluating the strengths
and needs of the church
- Exploring the potential
for the future of the church in light of a changing culture
- Explaining the diversity
in ministry styles and goals
- Expectations of the
pastors and the church
Assessment Tools:
- A Pastoral Transition
Workbook
- Church leadership and
congregational profiles
- Pastoral profile including
personality, spiritual gifts, abilities, and experiences
- Pastoral assessment
questionnaire
SCHEDULE
The seminar/workshop and consultation is scheduled to meet the needs of the individual church. Usually a preliminary informational session is held with the search committee and/or board of the church.
CONSULTANT
Dr. Gary R. Becker has more than twenty-five years of experience in pastoral ministries. He has pastored churches in a major evangelical association and an independent church. Educationally, he holds Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Theology degrees from Northeastern Bible College, a Masters in Theological Education from New Brunswick Seminary,
completed courses at Luther Rice Seminary, and has earned his
Doctorate in Practical Theology from Masters School of Divinity. He is the president and executive director of Biblically Balanced Ministries, Inc. This ministry gives him an opportunity to share his experience in coming alongside churches and
pastors.
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