Staff Training?

[Barry]

If you are a Senior Pastor, what do you do to train your other ministry staff? When I was still in that role, we would have a meeting bi-monthly. One of our monthly meetings was training, using resources like John Maxwell's video series, and the other monthly meeting we dealt with church issues. It seemed to work very well.

How about you?

Barry

[Bro. Terry]

I don't have that problem yet, the church that I pastor is very small. But hey there's something you can all pray about, pray that the church will grow and that by GOD's grace I will be able to continue the work that he has given me, I know I pray that every day. But let me say I have been in churches in the past that did use those types of studies like books and tapes and even videos, and they always seemed to work pretty good in my opinion. I figure if it works for some most of the time it'll work for others too.

Bro. Terry

[bdonpap]

I either give, or recommend, certain books to staff members, then at a later meeting with that staff member, talk about what was gleaned from the material.  We also have it in our budget for staff members to attend at least one training conference each year, for their particular area of ministry.

The main lesson I have learned, is that it is important to have someone in a postion who believes he is called of God to do that specific ministry.  That makes all the difference in the world.

[carol vincent]

Agree totaly on coming alongside staff and supporting them in every way possible. I don't think they should be 'left to it'. But there comes a time when as a pastor you have to gently back off and watch them grow and mature in their calling. Then, let them get on with it with a watchful eye in the background. Only take action if they are really messing up. Otherwise, let them grow through their failing. I personaly would have a monthly review just to see how things are going, if more training and support is needed, then give it, but not to the point they rely on you too much.
Empowering others, means giving up your own power; delegation is the key.

[pastortimo]

While the training is important I think each individual needs to know you are there for them.  Some won't need you as much as the others.  But they need to know they are just as important in your ministry.