February 2008
Leadership Development Ideas
Know Your Pastor and How to Support Him
If you are going to be effective at getting a vibrant ministry to men going in your church, it will be important for you to know your pastor. We have found three basic types.
The first type is the kind we call the "guy's guy." He is willing to get involved, is comfortable with ministry getting a little messy, and is willing to go for it. In his mind he thinks, "failing is fine, just do it fast and adjust." You need to tell him where you need him and generally he will show up. This type of pastor will generally serve as an executive advisor - he will approve plans and validate direction. Your job is to keep him in the loop. His energy will dictate the church's environment...he's engaged and onboard and showing up to events; he may even spearhead one of the bible study groups.
The next type of pastor is known as the "overwhelmed guy." He has no extra capacity, and men's ministry is sometimes the last straw. He thinks it's up to him to make men's ministry work, or he is indifferent to men's ministry and wIll make it the 7th priority. You need to show him there is a groundswell of interest and momentum, that there are men to do the heavylifting and that men's ministry will be a blessing not a curse. It will be important for you to develop a solid men's council and leadership team made up of doers willing to make things happen and get things done.
The last type of pastor is one to pray for...he's the one who says, "There is no need for a men's ministry now. Everything is fine." And yet there is no weekly discipleship; no monthly breakfast or outreach; no place for men to be real and get real. Pray for God to remove the scales from this pastor's eyes and ears. Most likely the men sitting in the pews are parched for real connection, accountability and discipleship. You need to do what you can with what you have where you are. You and your buddies get together and do a bible study. If you know of other guys that want to get involved, invite them to join you. Mentor those interested in growing and then encourage them to start their own groups. Love will find a way.
Contact us if you would like some help getting your men's ministry going.
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