SEASONING…it adds the “A HA” to the food that hungry people need!

It is something that gives a better flavour to food, something that adds interest or character. Pastors and leaders may be in need of some seasoning to effectively lead Missional Churches in Australia.

One of my key learning experiences shouts out loudly and clearly, and compels me to remind all Christians, especially those called to leadership, that Discipleship – Growing in Christ, must continue if we are to be the people God calls us to be.

For many Ministers/Pastors, training for ministry, in mainstream denominations, has traditionally provided a “one model fits all”, of a solid academic approach with some help in preaching and pastoral care. Little was offered in leadership development, visioning, setting and implementing goals, recruiting and training staff, developing strong financial resources and other skill areas needed to develop and grow vibrant, strong, relevant communities of faith.

Change

Recently there has been more emphasis on further education for leaders, but apart from attending inspirational conferences like the Willow Creek Summits, where does a Pastor and leaders who have a passion to see God’s Church alive and effective in the Community, learn the skills to:

·         Lead a church past the 150 barrier

·         Plant a new campus

·         Move from being the “jack of all trades” at a small church to become a designer responsible for the implementation of a new and exciting program for growth.

·         Employ other staff needed in a growing ministry

·         Look at a major funding program or plant a new campus?

There is no substitute for strong Biblical and theological foundations, church history, and pastoral care. However today’s leaders also need ongoing support that will enable them to maintain their passion for the Gospel and continue to develop leadership and management skills to match their Spiritual gifts and graces; Ongoing training that will enable them to be effective in leading their Churches to serve God in the Communities where they are placed.

I am passionate to see a renewal in approaches to coaching in ministry and training in spiritual direction that will sustain Pastors and Leaders through a lifetime of ministry enabling the Gospel to be effective and touch every aspect of Australian life.

I strongly encourage all Christians to seize every opportunity to learn and to grow and to be able to say; “I am learning all the time. The tombstone will be my diploma.” (Eartha Kitt)

Ken Anderson