AI, Adaptive Leadership, and the Future of the Church
The Rev. John Borthwick poses some of the most pressing questions ministry leaders are asking today, and ChatGPT—acting as a kind of stand-in conversation partner—responds with reflections on leadership, resilience, and innovation. While AI doesn’t have personal experience, its ability to analyze historical and cultural patterns offers a fresh lens on the opportunities and struggles facing the church today.
Loneliness and Isolation as a Ministry Leader
As ministry leaders, sometimes, sadly the Church is the last place that one might look for community.
So where is your community?
Who are your people?
Inspired by these thoughts today, I’d invite you to consider this question of community to curb loneliness and isolation as a ministry leader and in the context of the Church by exploring these suggested resources.
Transitioning from Summer to Fall in Ministry
As the relaxed pace of summer gives way to the bustling activity of fall, ministry leaders often find themselves navigating a whirlwind of events, meetings, and programs. It can feel like you blink and suddenly it’s Advent, with a non-stop flurry of autumn activities and the resumption of weekly meetings. In the midst of this transition, it’s crucial to bring moments of rest, balance, and self-care into your routine to prevent burnout.
Here are 5 tips to help you embrace this seasonal change mindfully.
Let Us Know - July 16/24
Every week we’ll ask a question to the community. We hope you’ll provide your thoughts and insights and engage with other lifelong learners on this journey of growth and development.
Featured Resource: STUCK
Could it be that the congregational model as it has evolved over the decades is contributing to ordained ministers (and I’d also wonder about paid staff, volunteers, and lay leaders too) feeling constrained or hindered, even fed up with the structure of Church while at the same time not losing their love for the Gospel?
Well, you’ll need to read the book to draw your own conclusions.
Ministry Mental Health Summit ‘24
May is Mental Health Month and we are delighted to be one of the many sponsors of Ministry Mental Health Summit Canada coming up on May 22 - 23. The summit looks amazing and comprehensive covering topics of how to reach out and support those struggling with mental health issues through your ministry context and tending to your own mental wellbeing as a ministry leader.
Let Us Know - May 14/24
Every week we’ll ask a question to the community. We hope you’ll provide your thoughts and insights and engage with other lifelong learners on this journey of growth and development.
Dear Ministry Leader: YOU Matter Too.
One finding that fascinated me - and connects with how we may be feeling at the moment - was this: almost 100% of pastors acknowledge that it is somewhat true that their mental health is important while half use none of the identified services for personal, spiritual, or mental health support (like counsellors, spiritual directors, coaches, psychotherapists, etc)…