The Congregational Consulting Group, organized in 2014 by former consultants of the Alban Institute, is a network of independent consultants. We publish PERSPECTIVES for Congregational Leaders—thoughts on topics of interest to leaders of congregations and other purpose-driven organizations. — Dan Hotchkiss, editor
You had great expectations for a new hire. A few months after hiring, it becomes clear they are not suitable for the role or organization. They are failing to perform the most important parts of the job and behaving inappropriately. What should you do? Cut your losses and move them out as soon as possible or invest time and energy in trying to turn things around?
One of the most striking changes I have seen In my consulting work since 2012 is in how often congregations hire part-time employees. For everything from cleaning and building maintenance, administration, finance, program staffing, and pastoral care, I see part-timers doing work previously done by full-time staff. Some regret this; I think we should embrace it.
In the most unorthodox political season since I started paying attention to politics 50 years ago, the polarized national environment has thoroughly invaded local congregations. Pastors, priests and rabbis report pressure from some congregants to “Speak to the issues!” and from others to “Stay away from politics!” Many congregational leaders worry about the nasty tone of the national discourse and feel compelled to call for civility. What should a congregational leader say or do amid such omnipresent political tensions?
In fifty years of ministry, I’ve never seen a time with more opportunities for congregations to make a difference through nonpartisan, high-impact mission efforts. As the US government downsizes, new opportunities will arise for ministry in healthcare, veteran care, environment-sustaining and protection work, support for the poor, and so much more.
Many faith traditions set aside times for turning inward, reflecting, and spiritual practice. Right now, many Christians are practicing Lent while many Muslims observe Ramadan. Honoring these special times with the support of a religious community reminds us of the regenerative, inward work we need to do to become more human and sustain ourselves as leaders, especially in times of transition.
People have lots of questions about interim ministry—is it really necessary, how long should it last, what should the focus be? As an unintentional practitioner at both the judicatory and congregational levels (which means that I got coopted to do the work rather than seeking it out), I want to approach the subject differently: What do I love about an interim’s life?
Is your congregation a fortress, a partner, a prophetic voice, or an enmeshed part of its community? How do its traditions, its membership, or political events shape its attitude toward the society around it? In a time when many people have strong feelings about changes in the wider society, they want to know and understand their congregation’s stance toward the wider culture.