Wisdom from Staff Parish

Earlier in the month, it was a blessing to meet with Staff Parish for my annual review. I met with a few representatives of the entire Staff Parish team for an interview / conversation that lasted about an hour. I felt genuinely supported during our time together.

At the end of our time together, they asked if there were any other questions that I would have for them. I asked them a question, that I try to be intentional about asking in settings like Staff Parish, Board of Ordained Ministry, mentoring and conversations with members of the congregation

What advice would you have for me as a young pastor starting out in ministry?

I hope to continue to ask this question throughout my life, shifting it to address my current situation. I think that listening and learning is a critical component of being a leader and a pastor. I want to share some of their responses as I found them encouraging, uplifting and applicable.

• Continue in ministry in a spirit of organization and prayer.

• Continue to be open to new experiences, new opportunities. Be open to what God would have for you.

• Be a sponge - soak up and learn everything that you can possibly learn and experience.

• Be a sponge - squeeze yourself out. Be willing and ready to pour your effort into the life of the church. Do not underestimate the influence that you have as a leader.

What would your response be to my question?