Leadership Fundamentals for Ministry
Every ministry leader, whether you’re a seasoned pastor or a volunteer leading a small group, has encountered moments where they felt stretched thin. Perhaps you’ve wrestled with how to navigate a conflict with a staff member or volunteer. Maybe you’ve struggled to make decisions with clarity and confidence, or you’ve wondered how to rebuild trust in a congregation that has experienced division.
These aren’t just practical problems; they’re spiritual ones too. As leaders in the church, we’re called to model Christ’s example—to lead with humility, grace, and truth. But without intentional development, these qualities can be hard to sustain in the face of daily pressures.
And because at Ministry Forum we believe no ministry leader should have to navigate these challenges alone - we’ve partnered with experts in leadership development to host a 5 week series on the Fundamentals of Leadership for Ministry Leaders. Through this series you’ll gain practical tools and encouragement to lead with authenticity and clarity.
When Leaders Need to Grieve Too
When someone in your congregation passes away, it can be a deeply emotional time for everyone, including you. As a ministry leader, you’re there to offer comfort, guidance, and support—but that doesn’t mean you’re immune to the grief and loss. It’s okay to feel sad, to take a moment for yourself, and to acknowledge the weight of the moment. Taking care of yourself isn’t just a good idea—it’s essential.
Here are some simple ways to be gentle with yourself as you walk with others through this difficult time.
Self-Leadership with Rev. Dr. Peter Coutts
As a leader you’re often focused on others: guiding, supporting, mediating, vision casting to your congregation… But have you ever found yourself wondering, “Who’s guiding me?” It’s a question that many of us in ministry quietly carry, and it’s exactly why we worked with the Rev. Dr. Peter Coutts to develop a Self-Leadership course.
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.
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.
17 Podcasts for Church, Care, Leadership & Learning
…I’m often listening to a variety of podcasts. It seems that the Ministry Forum community listens to them too - since they often share recommendations with me.
So if you are looking to fill up your podcast catalog… this post is for you!