You’ve introduced your new staff member to some key figures in the congregation and encouraged that person to take some time to talk with them about the congregation. You’ve also put them in contact with a religious professional in a parallel position in another church and asked that person to give them a tour of the nearby community. Once that staff person has settled into the community and church, it is easy to get so caught up in the immediate demands of the congregation and ministry that we don’t take the time to take advantage of this new situation.
Some four to six months after a person has arrived, it would be good to set aside some time for a further extended conversation that could benefit both you and the staff person. In preparation for that conversation, ask that staff person to reflect on the following.
1. As a relative newcomer with a professional background, paint a picture of what this congregation looks like to you with both its strengths and weaknesses.
2. Give me an idea of at least two directions you would like to focus on. 3. What do you see as possible barriers to overcome or assistance you need in these efforts?
4. What excites you personally about this call?
It is always good to get a fresh perspective on the congregation. It is also important for a staff person to know that you are interested in their call and the challenges that they see.
Tomorrow, I want to comment on how a variation on this conversation might be of value for all the staff on a yearly basis.
