Finding Leaders For Tomorrow’s Churches
The story is told of a young person who was asked by an elder in the church, “So you are still teaching? When will you make the move and become our pastor?” The reply came quickly, “When the church asks me to make the change.” Within a year the junior high teacher was a pastor. Why? The church asked him to make a change.
As a church we are often surprised when people we thought might become pastors or missionaries pursue other vocational choices. At the same time we may be suspicious of those who have a single-minded pursuit of ministry as a vocational choice.
This guide is intended to assist churches and individuals in finding a balance between individual initiative and the call of the congregation. It includes:
- Suggestions for an overall approach to discernment
- The underlying values and philosophy that shape this process
- A listing of qualities to help churches identify potential leaders, and
- Detailed practical guidelines to the discernment process
The processes and resources provided in this document should be used thoughtfully, adapted to the local context, and bathed in prayer.
Even though one element of this document may apply more to either an emerging leader or those responsible for leadership development, close attention should be given to each part so that all involved can grasp the “big picture” of the discernment process. Using these materials will help you nurture emerging leaders as they grow into the calling the church has placed upon their lives. The contents may be adapted for your use or photocopied as needed.
Click here to download the full PDF resource.
Recent News
Mar 26, 2024
General
Assembly 2024
Bridgeway Community Church and Grace Community Church hosted the 78th SKMB Assembly (March 22 – 23). Some 90 participants from member churches and camps joined together to hear about the work of global, national and provincial MB ministries and partners.
Mar 26, 2024
General
Welcome to SKMB
Rev. Doug Hacking began ministry at Riverbend Fellowship (Borden) on March 1st.
Mar 13, 2024
CCMBC News
Pastors Credentialing Orientation
An equipping and orientation event for all pastors in an MB church in Canada. PCO is a National Faith and Life Team event, supported by MB Seminary faculty and Canadian Conference staff. It is for those who are new to ministry within the Mennonite Brethren conference and for others who are seeking a refresher on Mennonite Brethren history, theology and resources.
Attendance and completion of Pastors Credentialing Orientation is a requirement for pastoral credentialing through the pastor’s respective provincial conference.