Look ahead, not back. Choose others who want to fulfil the responsibilities to keep the ministry going. Then spend time with those who "bailed", find out their concerns and try to address them asap - best done one on one. Assuming they are valued leaders/volunteers, help them find their place in the congregation again. Keep them around, keep them informed... they'll come back if they "feel" loved and valued. Pray with/for them. Sincere and effective people are precious to God and to you... not easily replaced! Don't let the "bail cancer" spread. The real enemy is discontent.
Cynthia R Walker (Guest)
Posted: October 11, 2007
I am dealing with a similar transitional issue. I wish the pastor stepping away would engage the congregants in this manner. I know it means there will be many discussions, but even a small, intimate family dinner with the members who have concerns would help people "know" if they should really leave or if their perceptions have been skewed by fear or just the notion of change. It is important for leaders to remember that ministry is people-focused. The goal should always be directing people to Christ during pain, change, sickness, happiness, success, etc. Interaction is important prior to, during and after the transition to assure that we don't lose strong or baby christians to the emotional mayhem that may come even when the transition will be a blessing to all involved.
Anon. (Guest)
Posted: October 11, 2007
I must admit that I am one of those lay volunteers who has bailed during a time of transition. This was for many reasons, but mainly because I didn't agree with the direction our church was heading. Dissociating myself was a way of protecting my spiritual well being, which was suffering under the circumstances. Anyway, the question is what should a pastor do when this happens? Here is what I wish my pastor would have done. Call me up (along with several others who also resigned) and offer a 1 on 1 conversation to clear the air. Addressing the issues would have benefitted us both. Instead, he chose to ignore the elephant in the room and focus solely on preaching the word to address the conflict. YES, keeping the focus on the word of God is essential, but a pastor cannot ignore the interpersonal dynamics within a staff and congregation. Doing so will ultimately lead to his or her downfall.
