None of Us Is As Smart As All of Us

by Ircel Harrison

I was coaching a lead pastor who had served two other large congregations in associate roles. He recounted that in one church, his only personal conversation with the pastor was when they did an annual performance review. In the other situation, the pastor did not even do his performance review and sometimes he did not even speak when they passed in the hallway! The pastor I was coaching wanted to invest himself in developing his church staff and was seeking guidance as he did so.

I enjoy engaging with a new generation of pastoral leaders who understand the need for developing their staff teams and investing in them. They recognize not only the importance of their own personal and professional development, but the priority of staff development in today’s church. Especially during the pandemic, we have discovered that we can address challenges more effectively when we work and learn together.

In working with staff teams, I am reminded of several things.

First, every minister on a staff is unique. Even if their personality styles are similar, the way that they perceive themselves, carry out their work, and communicate with others varies based on experience and training. This offers a diversity that enriches the team.

Second, every staff minister is gifted and called. Although one may lose sight of that calling from time to time, a person goes into the ministry because of a sense that God is at work in his or her life and a belief that she or he can make a difference in the lives of others. Often, we need a refresher course to remind us of our calling.

Third, encouraging the work of individual staff members and developing a functioning team takes time and work. We are all busy, but “sharpening the ax” increases our effectiveness and is worth the investment.

Fourth, staff development is a way to break down silos in ministry. It is easy to get into our own little worlds and forget that each staff minister is not only responsible for his or her own work but is also part of a larger team that serves the church. Churches prosper when staff members work together with trust and confidence. Churches profit when ministers are involved in cross-functional and cooperative efforts where the staff’s varied gifts and skills are brought to bear on important initiatives in the life of the church.

Investment in staff development is not only valuable for the individual ministers but benefits the church through unified effort and effective ministries. An effective staff team provides a model for cooperation and collaborative ministry among disciples in the congregation.

Pinnacle Associates are available to provide both online and in-person staff development opportunities. Contact us and let us know your needs. We will be glad to partner in creating a staff development opportunity for your team.