By Chris Crain
Executive director, Birmingham Metro Baptist Association
During my first week on the job in denominational work, I was contacted by a part-time pastor who had been terminated over the telephone without cause. As this committed pastor shared his story, I began to weep. Over time, God worked in the pastor’s life to help him regain his confidence and return to the pulpit.
I am grateful that the association provided resources and support to help this minister return to emotional health and effectiveness. The local association continues to be an essential resource for pastors and churches, but we cannot always share publicly the specifics of how we are able to help our churches.
One of the critical roles in the work of the association is walking with churches and church leaders in decisive moments: staff transition, pastor search, church or staff conflict, determining vision or strategy, ministry coaching/counseling and accessing mission advancement. I tell people that much of what I do happens behind the scenes — assisting church leaders and pastors in finding the next steps or listening to them share their struggles. Let me share how the Birmingham Metro Baptist Association, or your local Baptist association, can help in various situations.
Staff transition
Almost daily, I spend time helping churches look for ministers to serve in various roles. Each church and ministry position is unique. Finding the right team member is like finding a donor organ for a major organ transplant. Without the proper match, the body (the church) will reject the organ. Even ministers who seem to be a good fit for the church because they were trained in a particular seminary or have a specific family background may be a mismatch because of the unique culture of the congregation. Often, these mismatches result in a forced termination of a minister and the ensuing turmoil that follows.
The association stands ready to assist ministers who desire to be matched in the right local church and churches looking for ministers who fit their church’s culture. As Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 12:27, “Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.” This speaks to the importance of the body of Christ working together as one for God’s glory.
Pastor search
How does a church find the next leader for the congregation? Having served as interim pastor, transitional pastor and coach to pastor search committees, I have identified a few principles that apply in most settings. For instance, a church “calls” a minister; they do not merely “hire” one.
Many well-intended members of the search committee fail to see the vast difference between “calling” a pastor and “hiring” someone for a company job. Calling a pastor is an incredible responsibility with immeasurable theological and ecclesiological ramifications. Pastor search teams would serve the church well by seeking God’s direction and reaching out to a skilled transitional pastor for guidance during the interim.
Every pastor, in a sense, is an interim pastor. Your church should remain prepared for transitions in leadership. However, few churches are spiritually prepared to take on the challenge of finding Godly leadership. God is never surprised, but churches may be if they are suddenly tasked with seeking a new pastor. As Proverbs 16:9 says, “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.” Let us walk with you in your search process. You are not alone.
Church conflict
In a conflict, you find at least three sides to a story: his side, their side, and the right side! Emotions often cloud judgment. Add to this the reality that some people are “contentious” individuals. The Apostle Paul warned against such people: “I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them” (Romans 16:17). In whatever capacity you serve in your church, you can be the person who either locks the door on unhealthy conflict or throws open the door and bids it to come in.
Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God” (Matt. 5:9). Associational leaders are often called in to help lead the church to a higher plane of peace, unity and forgiveness during seasons of conflict.
Minister counseling
Before I began denominational work, I already sensed a calling to be a listening ear to pastors and church staff. Many ministers have difficulty finding trusted people to discuss issues regarding church and family. Some church leaders have few close friends. Listening to pastors — most of whom are talkers — is a unique skill and a calling. I consider it a solemn privilege to provide a safe place where church leaders can sort out difficulties and receive the support they need.
Where does the shepherd of God’s flock turn for help? The local association is here to serve. Proverbs 11:14 states, “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.”
EDITOR’S NOTE — Chris Crain serves as executive director of the Birmingham Metro Baptist Association. Click here to learn more about the association and its related ministries.
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