Thanks to those who took part in conversation yesterday about pastoral search process. I do not usually share that information with a large group in the church. Usually we are only invited to share that with leadership groups and those asked to serve. But I hope it was helpful.
Pray for the Leadership Enlistment Team daily. They are seeking the Lord's will and what is best for the congregation. They need your prayer support as they determine the next best steps. And there is not an easy solution to keep the church moving forward. But God has a clear solution. Let’s let Him work through the Leadership Enlistment Team.
A question was raised about the involvement of the church in the process. I undoubtedly was not clear in the rush of getting through so let write down some of my thoughts about how most churches are involved in this process in a healthy way:
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Pray! Pray! Pray!
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Congregation will affirm the selection of the Pastoral Search Team.
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Each member will be asked to share their thoughts with the team about the perceived needs of the congregation and expectations of the pastor.
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Congregation will pray for the team.
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Congregation will receive regular reports from the team about their process.
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Congregation will encourage the Pastoral Search Team through personal affirmations and notes.
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Members will be allowed to submit recommendations of names of pastors they know who could serve as pastor.
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Congregation will keep praying.
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Congregation will approve financial package for pastor.
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Congregation will have opportunity to meet and ask questions of the final candidate that the Pastor Search Team brings in view of a call.
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Congregation will vote to call new pastor.
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Congregation will provide support, encourage, love, and follow the leadership of the new pastor.
What questions remain in your mind about this process?
Two big elements are important in the Baptist way of selecting a pastor - trust and prayer. If either element is missing, most churches are unsuccessful in creating a good match.