Podcast Episode #180
We discuss the connection between pastoral tenure and church health. We continue to see a pattern of healthy churches led by long-term pastors. While we have no statistical correlation, it simply makes sense that a pastor who sticks with a church through thick and thin will see that church become healthier over time.
Some highlights from today’s episode include:
- Pastoral tenure is a lot more difficult than academic or business tenure.
- I believe pastoring is the most difficult leadership assignment there is.
- Pastors who seek mentoring and help are the ones who are most likely to experience revitalization.
- A church doesn’t accidentally start revitalizing. It is a very intentional process.
- It is absolutely imperative for a pastor to live in or near the community of the church.
- It is not a bad thing to go through conflict or crisis in the local church.
- Going through conflict is not unusual. Not having conflict is not normal.
The six reasons pastoral tenure is so important are:
- Our research continues to show a strong correlation to pastoral tenure and church health.
- The breakout years of pastoral tenure typically begin after years 5 to 7.
- Relationships take time, particularly in church leadership.
- Nearly nine out of ten churches in America are in need of turnaround leadership.
- Community relationships and impact take time as well.
- Pastors and churches will have had time to go through a crisis or conflict.
Episode Sponsors
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Feedback
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