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I'm Not Exactly a 'Pastor,' Per Se |
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 Most megachurch pastors don't really think of themselves as pastors. That's what the latest Leadership Network survey of 232 megachurch senior pastors reveals, as only 14 percent of those who lead churches of more than 2,000 people actually describe themselves as a "pastor, shepherd or spiritual guide." Instead, a whopping 81 percent think of themselves more as a "preacher-teacher," with 51 percent opting for the "directional leader" tag.
Given that, it isn't surprising that the overwhelming majority of megachurch pastors believe their strongest gift is preaching (79 percent) and casting vision for their congregations (77 percent). Only 10 percent say they're best at offering counseling or spiritual direction, while 7 percent think they're great at spending "one-on-one time working to convert others to the faith." A mere 1 percent says they're best at visiting with church members, the sick or shut in. ... Read more
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No Longer a 'Place of Sanity' |
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QUOTE: "I think for many in the local churches, they don't like or understand the conflict. For them, the local church is supposed to be a place of sanity. So what may happen is simply the diminishing power of the national church as people lose interest in its continued fights." —William Sachs, an Episcopal scholar and author in Richmond, Va., on congregants' reaction to the U.S. Episcopal Church's decision this week to lift the ban on ordaining gay bishops. In 2003, the American branch of the Anglican Communion consecrated an openly gay bishop, Gene Robinson from the Diocese of New Hampshire, after which Anglican leaders urged the 2.1 million-member U.S. church from further liberalizing its policies. This week at the church's General Convention in Anaheim, Calif., however, the resolution to strike down the pre-existing ban passed by an overwhelming 104-to-30 vote in the House of Bishops, further splintering the already tenuous relationship with the global Anglican Communion. ... Read more
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Merging Ministries for Homosexual Outreach |
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A leading ministry to people battling same-sex attraction is expanding its reach in an effort to bridge differing views about ministering to homosexuals.
During a press conference Wednesday in Wheaton, Ill., Exodus International announced a merger with Transforming Congregations, an ex-gay ministry affiliated with the United Methodist Church, and One by One, a similar outreach affiliated with the Presbyterian Church (USA).
"The compassionate truth of the gospel is still the hope of the world today," said Alan Chambers, president of Exodus International. "Together, we hope to advance a new era in the global Christian church that is defined by God's truth as well as His heart for hurting individuals experiencing confusion and conflict about their sexuality." ... Read more
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Clip of the Week |
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Ministry Survey |
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Ministry Online |
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Finance |
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The High Cost of Debt in Ministry
| By Clark Whitten
Before you start your next big project, beware: Debt can devour or even kill you
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Children's Ministry |
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Torn Apart
| By Karen Apple
How you can help children through the pain of parents' separation or divorce
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Outreach |
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Church: A Safe Place for All?
| By Jeff Buchanan
How to reach and respond to homosexuals in your community
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Women's Ministry |
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The Walking Wounded
| By Sue Edwards
How to avoid destructive conflict in women's ministry
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