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Solving the Dilemma of Clergy Burnout – An Empowered Laity

by Rebekah Simon-Peter | Jan 15, 2024

Clergy are the heartbeat of churches, yet they seem perpetually on the edge of burnout. That sets up a real dilemma. The church depends on them. And yet, maybe depends too much. This is why I’ve been looking at the factors that contribute to clergy burnout. So far, we have looked at two factors: the impact of a fixed mindset and the pace of leadership change within congregations.

But those aren’t the only two factors at play in clergy burnout. Another key factor is the sense that clergy are in it by themselves. That the success of the ministry depends solely or mostly on the clergyperson.

In this article I will explore the dilemma of clergy burnout caused by stress and isolation in the clergy role. And reveal how an empowered laity can bring renewal to both you, as clergy, and the congregation you lead. First, let’s take a closer look at the problem.

Clergy Burnout Dilemma #3

When I pastored churches, I was acutely aware of the tension inherent in my role. Professional boundaries cautioned me against forming deep friendships with members of the congregation. By definition, it was my job to create community to which I would never fully belong. This is a tough spot to be in.

It creates a perpetual sense of not belonging which reinforces the sense of isolation. This feeling of loneliness may lead to pushing harder, overextending yourself, and then deprioritizing self-care. Once self-care is put on the back burner, you’re less likely to take days off and vacations. Let alone renewal leave. Meanwhile, the sense of burnout increases until you’re toast.

It reminds me of the Barna survey which named the top two reasons pastors consider quitting: the immense stress of the job (56%) and feeling lonely and isolated (43%). It doesn’t have to be this way.

Before we get to the solution that an empowered laity provides, let’s look at one dangerous myth that could derail everything: the myth of the solo leader.

The Myth of The Solo Leader

Because of the uniqueness of Jesus, whose leadership we emulate, church leaders fall prey to the myth that they have to do it by themselves. Congregations also fall prey to the myth that only clergy can or should lead. The dynamics of congregational decline reinforce this myth. Perhaps it seems as though there is truly no one to help the leader. Sometimes, clergy simply underestimate the ability of their laity. Or congregations overemphasize the role of clergy. In this way, the congregation inadvertently contributes to clergy burnout dilemma #3: stress and isolation. This dangerous myth of the solo leader kills clergy and congregations. The truth is Jesus was not a solo leader. He had people who forwarded his vision. You have people, too. You just have to look for them.

Empowered Laity Make a Difference

Through Creating a Culture of Renewal® I have witnessed both clergy burnout and laity disempowerment. Ironically, they stem from the same source: the myth of solo leadership. It is laity that showed me the solution.

Jim Granger, a retired military commander, is also a Creating a Culture of Renewal® grad and Certified Renewalist. As a man who has led in a variety of settings, he could see that clergy burnout needed a solution. In the face of proposed consolidation in the Eastern Shore District of the Virginia Annual Conference of the UMC, Jim noted, “Laity is the only source of additional resources. The Lay Servant Ministry committee is the means to bring laity into positions of greater responsibility. The time is now—clergy burnout is a real issue.”

Jim’s vision: Enhance Lay Servant Ministries on the Eastern Shore. This vision involved having one Certified Lay Servant for every 15 members of a congregation as well as 5 Certified Lay Speakers, and 5 Certified Lay Ministers for the District. His vision was met with a very strong reception by the District Superintendent and was at the core of a new district consolidation plan.

Through him, and other dedicated Lay Leaders, I have witnessed the difference an empowered laity can make. It can be easy to expect a clergy member to do it all and forget that congregations are full of people who want to respond to the call of God.

Laity Training

Every denomination has processes to train and empower laity. These roles may be variously called lay ministry, deacons, commissioned lay pastors, or lay servants. Let’s take a closer look at the plan of laity empowerment laid out by the United Methodist Church. The UMC process has four basic levels of training: Lay Leader, Certified Lay Servant, Certified Lay Speaker, Certified Lay Minister.

LAY LEADERS

In the UMC, every congregation, District, and Conference has lay leaders whose role is to partner with the clergy. The The Association of Annual Conference Lay Leaders is a key resource for Lay Leaders. Also, Annual Conferences have Laity Sessions and I have been delighted to speak at a variety of them.

CERTIFIED LAY SERVANT

UMC Certified Lay Servants are empowered laity who serve their local church. They assist the clergy by providing program leadership, training, congregational and community leadership, and conducting worship. By becoming teachers of Scripture and doctrine, Certified Lay Servants help build community and connection within a church.

CERTIFIED LAY SPEAKER

In the UMC, a Certified Lay Servant can receive additional training to become a Certified Lay Speaker. These laypersons partner with clergy and the ministry team to serve by preaching. Their role is to fulfill the need for a pulpit supply.

Perhaps the clergy member has a child who is participating in a weekend sporting event across the state. With a certified lay speaker, they no longer need to decide between their family and their work. A Certified Lay Speaker allows the clergyperson to take days off, vacations, or renewal leave.

CERTIFIED LAY MINISTER

A UMC Certified Lay Minister is an appointed role that becomes a vital part of a ministry team. A Certified Lay Minister assists the clergy to provide worship services and congregational care. They help build the church’s vision by developing faith communities and establishing outreach ministry in the community. A certified lay minister may also be responsible for church planting, children’s worship, parish nursing, and more.

When a church discovers its big vision, a certified lay minister exists to help the clergy make this a reality. Being trained to establish and cultivate the vision allows a certified lay minister to engage with the community.

Say Yes to Laity

There’s one kicker here. In order for an Empowered Laity to be effective and to alleviate clergy burnout, clergy have to say yes to laity! You have to allow yourself to be assisted and supported. This can be hard to do.

Join me to learn more about how clergy and laity can empower each other in one of my free 90-minute online seminars “How Christian Ministries are Achieving Success”. Make this the year you say yes to renewal and embark on a journey that leaves burnout behind!

Solving the Dilemma of Clergy Burnout – Intentional Interim Ministry

by Rebekah Simon-Peter | Jan 9, 2024

What causes clergy to burn out? The answers are complex. There are a number of factors to be teased apart. Last week, we looked at the impact of a fixed mindset – both in individuals and in the system. This week we’ll look at another factor that contributes to clergy burnout – the pace of leadership change within congregations. In this second blog of the “Solving the Dilemma of Clergy Burnout” series, we will explore the ways that Intentional Interim Ministry offer a practical solution to clergy burnout during leadership change.

To begin, let’s look at two distinct ways that the pace of leadership change can impact both clergy and the congregations that they serve.

Prolonged Leadership Change

In many denominations, there’s an extended lag time between clergy leaders. Denominational processes take a long time to replace one clergy person with the next. For instance, congregational churches, such as the American Baptist Churches USA and The Presbyterian Church (USA), call their own pastor. The call process can be long and arduous.

In the meantime, these congregations may put new plans for growth on pause for years at a time. This slow pace of change creates a system that values process over results, and caution over curiosity.

The impact of a prolonged process of leadership change is that momentum is lost, and stagnation can become the norm. When the new clergy leader shows up, the task of re-invigorating a stagnant congregation can be overwhelming.

Rapid Leadership Change

On the other hand, in itinerant, appointive systems such as the United Methodist Church, congregations go through rapid, often frequent, change in clergy. In these congregations, there is little time to reflect or breathe between pastors. The pastor may leave one church at the end of June and begin preaching at the next church the very first week of July.

As you can imagine, there is often no time set aside for either pastor or congregation to let go of the past, to heal from any wounds, to re-orient toward the new, or to get ready for what is next.

This rapid pace of change is a recipe for frustration and failure for both congregation and clergy. This is especially true if the previous pastor was long term, or beloved, or both. In this case, “the new person” will likely have a hard time gaining traction.

Intentional Interim Ministry

These days, I’m a big proponent of Intentional Interim Ministry. Recently, I worked with two organizations, Transitional Intentional Interim Ministry Specialists Association (TIIMSA) and the Interim Ministry Network (IMN), to think creatively about ministry in these times. Both organizations exist to train Intentional Interim Ministers to step in and ensure that the transition phase of a congregation is positive.

Whether your congregation is used to drawn-out or rapid leadership change, Intentional Interim Ministry can help alleviate clergy burnout. Let’s take a closer look at what Intentional Interim Ministry provides.

Intentional

Intentional means a pastor who is trained specifically to help a congregation transition from what was to what can be. This experienced pastor guides a realistic process of change based on the needs of the congregation. An Intentional Interim Minister directs a congregation towards looking inward to discover their mission and find renewal.

Interim

Interim is the period of time between clergy leaders. It can last between 6 months and 2 years. During this time, an Intentional Interim Minister will set the church up for healing and reflection on what worked, or what didn’t work with the previous clergy. The Intentional Interim Minister empowers the congregation to receive and work well with a new pastor. Not only are Intentional Interim Ministers trained to provide leadership to congregations between clergy leaders, they also lead through closure and redevelopment. They may also serve as consultants to congregations in conflict.

Ministry

The training and the work of the Intentional Interim Minister is five-fold. Generally, they help the church come to terms with its history and to discover a new identity. They guide needed changes in leadership. They also renew denominational ties among members. Finally, the Intentional Interim Minister helps the church commit to new directions in ministry. With this level of emotional and spiritual stability, the congregation is now poised to move with a new pastor toward a new, big vision.

From Burnout to Renewal

Post-pandemic and post-disaffiliation, every church needs transitional leadership! I’m grateful that I was able to work with TIIMSA and IMN last year, and I’m happy to give a shout out to these organizations during times of distress and decline. Together with Creating a Culture of Renewal®, we are moving towards a renewed life for the church.

While you may not have benefited from Intentional Interim Ministry, perhaps you are experiencing a Readiness for Renewal. We’ve created a short-term, high impact offering just for you. If you’d rather start with a conversation, reach out and let’s talk about navigating the pace of change of your congregation while helping to banish burnout!

Solving the Dilemma of Clergy Burnout – Moving the Mindset

by Rebekah Simon-Peter | Dec 28, 2023

Churches are struggling. Spiritually, missionally, and financially. This isn’t news to anyone, especially to the leaders bearing the brunt of this culture of decline. And what are the reasons for this?

For one, there’s reluctance. Leaders often experience a strong resistance to new ideas. Aging congregations, as so many of them are now, can be set in their ways. Change isn’t an option for them. Reactivity is rampant and leaders, like you, are constantly putting out fires, no time left to ever actually move forward with a new vision.

Then, there’s the overwhelming sense of resignation. “Well, we already tried that, and it doesn’t work around here.” And, of course, we’ve got the “isms” and “phobias” (sexism, racism, homophobia, xenophobia) …the list goes on. It’s no wonder decline is rampant among many denominations, and that clergy burnout is on the rise.

So how do you solve this? In the coming weeks, I am going to explore solutions for modern-day churches and leaders. I will talk about the mindsets that are holding people back, the institutional church, lay servant ministry, and how to achieve a culture of renewal. The dilemma of clergy burnout can be solved. Let’s start by looking at mindsets.

The Dilemma of Clergy Burnout

The Great Pastor Resignation was part of the post-pandemic Great Resignation. Pews emptied out. And so did clergy. In September of 2023, Rev. Alex Lang wrote a compelling article about his reasons for leaving the pastorate. He told them, “I no longer have a desire to serve as a pastor in the church. In my sermon, I told my congregation that I was exhausted from writing, memorizing and preaching sermons week after week for 10 years, which is true.” Lang goes on to make some points that are helpful to see things the way they are. And he’s not alone.

In March of 2022, Barna did a national survey of pastors and found that 42% were considering quitting. What were their top five reasons? 56% of these pastors stated the immense stress of the job was their top reason. Many felt lonely and isolated (43%). Then, 38% report the current political divisions as a reason for leaving. Unhappiness with the effect their role has had on family and not being optimistic about the future of the church both come in at 29%.

Stress. Isolation. Division. Family Impact. Church Decline. These responses are not surprising given what is expected of you as church leaders. As Lang has noted, pastors take on a variety of roles: You must be a professional speaker, a CEO, a counselor, a fundraiser, a human resources director, a master of ceremonies, and a constant pillar of virtue. Wearing so many hats means that burnout is inevitable. In any other job setting, different people would be performing each of these jobs, sometimes multiple people. Nobody is capable of being proficient at all of these skills. Even with the fabulous skills we teach in Creating a Culture of Renewal! And yet, you are expected to take on each of these tasks, and do them well, for way less than you deserve.

What is the Mindset?

Lang noted that his church, like many others, began to split during the Trump years. People in his church left because he was perceived as either too liberal or too conservative. The constant anger and bickering left him exhausted. In the United Methodist Church, this polarization took the shape of disaffiliations.

There is a concept of growth vs. fixed mindset that applies to churches in decline. A growth mindset is when a person is willing to take chances, enjoys learning new things, and is not afraid to fail. Conversely, people with fixed mindsets don’t like to be challenged. They perceive failure as revealing the limit of their abilities. They tend to fear learning new things, particularly if that education disrupts their current worldview.

Lang noted that he thought that the reason people gathered every Sunday was to explore deep questions about life and to push themselves to become better humans. What he, and we, have learned is that this assumption isn’t necessarily accurate.

Although there are definitely some people who come to church for the reasons outlined above (Lang noted these were some of his biggest supporters), the majority of people who attend churches are in the fixed mindset category. Most Christians don’t want their thinking challenged. Rather, they want to learn more about what they already believe.

Now, I don’t know that I believe that ALL Christians are like that, but certainly mindset is a factor in the struggles that many churches are experiencing today. Here is what is most arresting. Lang’s conclusion was “My particular skillset and perspective is a mismatch for the institutional church.”

I get it. I have felt that way myself. In September I wrote an article with compassion for what Lang had written, but here’s what I’ve learned. In some ways, this conclusion itself is demonstrative of a fixed mindset. Yes. Here’s what I mean: when all the problems are external, i.e. the system is the problem or the people are the problem that is fixed mindset territory. But what if that mindset itself shifted? Could new solutions then arise? The answer is yes.

Moving from a fixed mindset to one that fosters growth isn’t easy. It takes you, as your congregation’s leader, to skillfully move past the resistance and reluctance into acceptance and eagerness to change. In order to experience growth and to survive as a church, change is inevitable. January’s blog series “Solving the Dilemma of Clergy Burnout” will explore positive, empowering solutions to deliver you and your congregation from a culture of decline and into a culture of renewal.

If you’d like to learn more, my three year, award-winning, group coaching program, Creating a Culture of Renewal® will help you move from a fixed mindset to a growth mindset. Decline gives way to the miraculous. Registration for the Fall 2024 community of Creating a Culture of Renewal is now open. If you’d rather start with a conversation, reach out and let’s talk about changing the mindset of your congregation while helping to banish burnout!

Note: this blog has been revised and updated to correct the name of the pastor quoted. His name is Rev. Alex Lang, not Langford. We have also revised the blog to give full attribution to his ideas. Thanks to one of our readers for catching the error in his name. Our apologies for the errors. 1/4/24.

Infusing Christmas Love in Conversations and Conflict

by Rebekah Simon-Peter | Dec 27, 2023

Christmas has just passed, leaving behind a trail of excitement, anticipation, and leftover wrapping paper. It’s a time of gathering with loved ones to exchange gifts and enjoy delicious meals. However, as members of the faith community, we must remember that the true essence of Christmas transcends a single day of gift-giving and indulgence. The love of Christmas presents an opportunity to infuse advocacy and activism into our oral traditions.

Advocacy is about celebrating the fullness of Jesus’s Christmas love. You might think of the work of advocacy as just something that happens outside of your family and home. However, conversations with your loved ones can also be powerful tools for promoting love and compassion. You can connect with your friends and family on crucial social issues and inspire them to join you in action. By intertwining advocacy and activism into your post-Christmas conversations, you can forge meaningful experiences that bring you closer and create a lasting impact on the world. You can also use this time to educate yourself on different perspectives and learn to listen actively without judgment. Let’s explore some ways that advocating Christmas love all year can be infused with conversations and conflict.

Infusing Love in Conversation

Love is a universal longing, particularly heightened during the holiday season. Yet, advocating for it can be a year-long endeavor with the people you regularly spend time with. It can be challenging to establish authentic communication amidst the day-to-day hustle but by prioritizing meaningful conversations, you invest in your emotional well-being. It’s never too late to start having more authentic conversations, especially in the days following Christmas.

I would like to provide you with a few suggestions on practical ways to start the conversation:

Discuss Current Events: One of the most straightforward ways to bring up advocacy within your home is to discuss current events during family conversations. You can discuss the ongoing refugee crisis and the importance of supporting displaced individuals. This discussion can initiate additional conversations on how your family can make a difference close to home. Having this conversation will help your family consider supporting relevant charities, volunteering at local refugee centers, or advocating for meaningful reforms, including those related to immigration policies.

Share Personal Stories and Experiences: A powerful way to advocate for social issues is to share personal stories and experiences. Not everyone is fortunate enough to experience post-Christmas abundance. Maybe during a food drive, you spoke with a family or individual who was struggling with food insecurity. You’ve probably also volunteered at a homeless shelter handing out warm clothes and blankets. Talk about the people you met and the stories they shared with you. This will help humanize the issue and could inspire your family members to act.

Initiate Book or Movie Clubs with Advocacy Themes: Another practical way to spark meaningful conversations about advocacy is by initiating a book or movie club focusing on social inequity. Select books or movies that shed light on relevant topics such as gender inequality, racial profiling, LGBTQIA+ phobias, human trafficking, and more. Gather your family and friends for a discussion after reading a book or watching a movie. This can help create a safe space for open dialogue and encourage critical thinking.

Infusing Love in Conflict

Conflict is a part of every relationship. You may find that your friends and family do not share the same views or beliefs as you, and having conversations with them can be stressful. Sometimes a simple misunderstanding can turn into a resentment that will fracture a relationship. Connecting with your loved ones and cultivating deeper relationships built on trust and open communication is essential.

Here are a few tips for fostering meaningful conversations with family and friends that might not share the same views as you:

Set Aside Time to Talk Without Distractions: You can’t have a connected conversation if you are distracted. Turn off the television, put your phone on Do Not Disturb, and find a quiet space to sit and connect. You will be more likely to cultivate understanding in an environment free from all the little interruptions.

Actively Listen: When you listen, seek to understand rather than respond. By listening to what the other person has to say without trying to plead your case, you engage in meaningful conversation. This also allows you to give a safe space to others to communicate their point of view that they may not have elsewhere.

Respect Different Opinions: If everyone had the same opinion, the world would be a boring place. You can think and feel differently about something and still maintain respect and open dialogue with others. When you practice being respectful of differing opinions, you build trust in relationships and open your mind to new ideas.

Share Resources and Information: Learning more about the topic being discussed helps both parties. If it is an issue that matters to you, come to the conversation with information that the other person might not have considered. Offer resources from agencies that focus on the causes that are important to you and let your loved one consider this information on their own.

As we wrap up the holiday season, let us remember the true meaning of Christmas – the giving of love and compassion. While it may be easy to get caught up in the rush of gift shopping and festive parties, remember that this time of year holds so much potential for positively impacting our communities and personal relationships.

My heart is deeply committed to helping churches not only express love but to do so courageously. Courageous love extends its arms to the marginalized, projects a voice for the voiceless, and relentlessly advocates for justice. It is a love that dares to change the world and dares to invite others to join the mission.

I invite you to my upcoming seminar, “How Christian Ministries are Achieving Success: An Introduction to Creating a Culture of Renewal®” on Tuesday, January 2, 2024, between 10:00-11:30 am MT or Noon-1:30 pm ET. This 90-minute online seminar is free and designed for you if you wish your leadership could make a tangible difference for the church, your community, and the Kingdom of God.

Social Impact and Advent: The Joy in Storytelling

by Rebekah Simon-Peter | Dec 20, 2023

The holidays are a time to reflect, create memories, and focus on what God has done in our lives. As we search for Advent joy, it’s helpful to share our stories about how Jesus has impacted us through our work and service. Stories of change are individual and communal narratives that showcase positive transformations. They often depict a journey from struggle to hope, progress, or success brought about by individual or group actions, efforts, or initiatives. These stories revolve around social, environmental, economic, or educational reform efforts and offer firsthand accounts of how initiatives and people have significantly improved the lives of individuals or communities.

Whether about a young person organizing a protest, a group coming together to overhaul a rundown park, or a change in government policy that benefits marginalized populations, social impact stories showcase people doing good in the world. These stories of social impact provide detailed insight into inspiring works that cultivate joy in the lives of the people involved. Let’s look at some practical ways sharing joy in your story can have a social impact during Advent, and beyond.

Storytelling as a Means of Sharing Joy

Storytelling has always been powerful, creating deep human connection. In today’s world, storytelling can play a crucial role in catalyzing transformation. When joy seems elusive, the inspiration of your positive experience can shift the perspective from the negative.

Think about what compels you on social media – chances are that the stories that make you pause are those of people making a difference. Whether watching a viral video of an individual overcoming adversity or reading about a campaign for change that resonates with your beliefs, storytelling can inspire and motivate people toward positive action.

Here are some practical ways you can share stories that bring joy:

1) Social Media: Utilize platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok to share joy. When you put positive content into the world, you allow the opportunity for others to share in something bigger.

Film a video or write a post detailing a story of joy that resonates with you. Social media is perfect for sharing the small joys of your life with the people in your network. Ever notice how many “likes” a new baby photo or a birthday post get? People want to celebrate. They want to experience your joy with you!

Even sharing a story about the beauty of something as simple as a winter sunrise will inspire others to look beyond the daily negative noise. You can shift the perceptions of others by highlighting joy in the world around you.

2) Blogs or Websites: You can be the change you wish to see in the world, and websites like Medium or WordPress are great platforms for this kind of sharing. Detailed writing about a topic that is inspiring allows you to connect on an emotional level in a digital age. Include pictures and videos to make your story more engaging.

If you’re writing about a project that you’re working on for social change, invite others to join you. You can’t make the world a better place alone; share the work… and the joy!

3) Church Gatherings: Tell your story at church gatherings or meetings. When you share your spiritual journey with others, you connect with joy. Sharing can be as formal as a presentation or speech, or as casual as a random conversation.

Remember, the goal is not just to tell your own story but also to inspire others to offer their unique stories of joy. Your storytelling should always include listening to the journeys of others. Spirituality manifests itself in astounding ways. For some, communing with nature brings the most joy; for others, the spiritual path means working to help pass legislation to protect those very same resources. The main objective is to spread positive action and experience.

Advent, Social Impact & Joy

Social impact is a powerful force that can transform lives and communities. It is the collective effort of individuals to address unjust societal issues like homelessness and gun violence. To promote equality in the workplace and in our communities. To make practical changes for the environment and for future generations. Through acts of kindness, advocacy, and philanthropy, you can be the impact that inspires others to join the cause and create meaningful change.

You all possess a remarkable tool to ignite change, uplift spirits, and bring happiness: your unique stories. By sharing your experiences, you have the power to ignite a chain reaction of joy and social impact that extends far beyond your immediate circle. If you’re not sharing your stories now, what better time to get started then during the season of Advent!

With that in mind, I invite you to my upcoming seminar, “How Christian Ministries Achieve Success: An Introduction to Creating a Culture of Renewal®.” During our time together, I will offer practical strategies for sharing your impactful story and contributing to a culture of renewal in your community.

Together, let’s write the next chapter of our stories of social impact.

Advent, Advocacy, and Engagement: A Path to Peace

by Rebekah Simon-Peter | Dec 12, 2023

As human beings, we strive for peace. The yearning for peace resonates within individuals, communities, nations, and the global community. Yet, pursuing lasting peace is a formidable endeavor, constantly disrupted by war, conflict, violence, and injustice. Nevertheless, the church is called to advocate for peace and to seek reconciliation.

Understanding Advent and its Significance in Relation to Peace

Advent, a cherished season in the Christian faith, symbolizes the anticipation and preparation for Jesus Christ’s birth. During the four weeks leading up to Christmas, believers worldwide light candles, engage in special services and contemplate the arrival of Christ. This time allows us to center our thoughts on peace—a virtue that Jesus exemplified throughout his life.

While Advent practices may differ geographically and among denominations, the central message of the season remains unchanged: the birth of Jesus was a profound event that forever transformed the world. As we anticipate the joy of Christmas, let us remember that this season’s true essence lies in its profound influence on our lives – peace.

The Role of Advocacy in Promoting Peace and Unity

Advocacy is critical in promoting peace and unity across communities and nations. When we advocate for the rights and dignity of all individuals, especially the oppressed, we create a space where differences can be embraced and celebrated rather than feared or rejected.

Advocates strive to build bridges between different communities, encouraging a sense of openness and respect, ultimately leading to a more peaceful and harmonious world. Whether advocating for policy change, mobilizing communities, or simply amplifying voices that are often silenced, the role of advocacy in promoting peace and unity cannot be overstated, especially throughout Advent.

Creative Ways for Churches to Engage with Their Communities During Advent

Advent is a special time of year when many churches find innovative ways to connect with their community members. From virtual Advent calendars to drive-through nativity scenes to caroling, and more, churches offer unique ways to engage the community. By embracing creativity and adapting to the times, churches are proving that the spirit of Christmas cannot be contained. Engaging with the community during this season is not only a way to spread the message of peace and goodwill but also an opportunity for churches to demonstrate their commitment to advocating for peace. Brainstorm with your church and community leaders to come up with creative ways you can advocate together for peace.

Here are some ways your church can begin to engage in the work of advocacy during Advent:

Host a fundraiser for a peace-focused organization or charity that aligns with the church’s values.
Organize a prayer vigil for peace in the local community or for global conflicts.
Partner with other churches, synagogues, mosques, and faith-based organizations to host an interfaith dialogue on promoting peace and unity.
Encourage members to use their social media platforms to educate others about issues related to peace and to advocate for change.
Host a book club or discussion group that addresses inequality and injustice.
Collaborate with community leaders and organizations to host workshops on conflict resolution and peaceful communication strategies.

There are a variety of ways that churches can engage in the work of advocacy during Advent, and these are just a few examples. The important thing is to find what works best for your church and community, keeping in mind that advocating for peace is an ongoing journey that requires consistent effort and dedication. Though you may embark on the journey during Advent, for lasting change, it will continue throughout the year and beyond.

Peace is not merely a desired state of existence but an active pursuit that demands our relentless commitment. For pastors, it may feel like an uphill battle given the complexities of the world we live in today. There may be times when the responsibility of leading your church to advocacy can feel immense, the challenges insurmountable, and discouragement creeps in. However, during these moments of vulnerability, we are reminded of the transformative power of faith, hope, and unity.

If you are a pastor grappling with the complexities of fostering peace and unity in your community, remember that you are not alone. I invite you to connect with me. I am committed to walking alongside you, offering support, sharing resources, and celebrating every stride towards peace. Advocacy work can be complicated and sometimes overwhelming, but with the collective efforts of individuals like you, peace becomes possible. I love helping individuals and communities find creative, meaningful ways to do advocacy work.

Together, let’s strive to illuminate the world with the beacon of peace this Advent and beyond.

Putting the Hope of Advent Into Action

by Rebekah Simon-Peter | Dec 5, 2023

Hope is the theme of the first Sunday in Advent. But hope is more than a hymn to be sung, a scripture to be read, or a candle to be lit. In the Christian world, hope is definitely more than thinking. Hope is an action word. Hope is living as if the world is already set right. Pope Francis said “Advent is a journey toward the horizon of hope.”

As we navigate a constantly changing world, many people find themselves looking for ways to make a difference. One way to contribute to the greater good is by promoting justice and equality in the spaces you influence. Think about how you can broaden your team. Use your voice to speak up and challenge the status quo. In doing so, you effectively create hope in the lives of those around you. While the task may seem daunting, there are many different ways to work toward a more just world. Whether you volunteer, donate, attend community events, or engage in advocacy work, every action counts. By coming together and taking individual steps to create a more equitable society, we can all play a part in creating a better future for ourselves and future generations. This is putting the hope of Advent into action.

In the coming weeks, I will share a series of posts that delve into the connections between Advent’s four powerful themes: Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love, and their resonance with working for God’s reign here on earth. I will explore the intersection of Hope and social justice, delve into the influence of Peace on advocacy and church involvement, uncover stories of social impact and community engagement that embody Joy, and culminate with lessons and inspirations driven by Love, encouraging continued advocacy.

Connecting Advent to Social Justice

Christmas is not merely a season of festivities, gift-giving, and merriment. It also carries a profound message of social justice. As we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, we are reminded of his humble beginnings and connection with the poor and marginalized.

Advent also tells the story of the shepherds, who were among the first to hear the good news of Jesus’s birth. This is a powerful reminder of God’s inclusive love. As social outcasts at the time, the shepherds highlight that God’s love extends to all people, regardless of their social status.

Jesus and his family were Jewish refugees on the run from Herod. Their safety depended on their relative invisibility. But these days, for many people facing homelessness, invisibility is a death sentence. Increasing numbers of people don’t have homes due to struggles with addiction, mental health issues, and increasing inflation. When we choose not to see these individuals as people, we lose our own humanity as well.

Hope in Action

In a world where injustice persists, finding hope can seem elusive. Choose one area where you would like to see a difference. Here are four practical ways you can take actions that inspire hope:

See each person as significant. Befriend someone you might not normally notice or whose presence you might normally dismiss. Over the years I have befriended many people experiencing homelessness. I have gotten to know their stories, found out where they came from, and discovered ways to support them directly. By hearing others’ stories and recognizing their experiences, they not only become more visible to you but they become a part of your spiritual connection to the world. Within this connection you can promote their rights and contribute to a more just society.
Educate yourself. Take the time to learn about the root causes of social inequities. Why do some people have food, homes, and regular paychecks, while others don’t? By understanding the issues, you can contribute to meaningful conversations and support informed solutions. Talk to those whom social inequities have directly impacted and listen to their stories. When I lived in Denver I regularly purchased The Denver VOICE from vendors who were homeless. This gave me the opportunity to learn from individuals who faced homelessness directly and how to best support them.
Advocate for change. I was recently in Atlanta and witnessed a large amount of people on curbsides and under bridges with seemingly no place to go. I didn’t stop with lifting up a prayer. I called the mayor and a US Senator to see what their plans were for getting people off the streets. Here at home, the church I attend has been advocating for change at a very local level. Instead of wondering what to do about the large homeless population that congregate around the church, they have taken action. By partnering with health providers in the area, they offer healthcare services twice a month to those who otherwise would likely not receive the care they need. Use your voice to raise awareness. Then, take action toward social equity in your community.
Engage in volunteering. Don’t just think or talk about it, live it. By actively participating, you make a tangible impact and inspire hope. Where can you serve this year that you haven’t before? Many Creating a Culture of Renewal^® participants craft visions with their churches that are inspired by hope in action to revitalize their communities. I recently spoke with two current participants who run the only warming shelter in their county. The need is great as an increasing number of people are experiencing homelessness. However, due to a lack of volunteers, the project has been put on hold until January 1, 2024. I am sure that many non-profits can use your help.

As you enter this Advent season that celebrates the joy of light and hope in darkness, it’s time to turn hope into an action word. You can make meaningful impacts in your community. No, you can’t change the whole world this Advent. And you don’t need to try. Instead, choose one area and start by challenging yourself and those around you to live with greater compassion and empathy.

To help equip you on those journeys, make an appointment with me to discuss engaging more fully in Advent. May the beauty of this holy time be profoundly transformative as we increase our awareness and raise the call for justice!

Avoiding Burnout During the Holiday Season

by Rebekah Simon-Peter | Nov 27, 2023

Clergy are entrusted with the spiritual guidance and support of their communities. Ironically, with increased demands at the holidays your own well-being and family can get left out. The pressure to meet the needs of the congregation, prepare special services, provide emotional support, and make the season feel spiritually significant is overwhelming. This leads to fatigue, stress, and even burnout. Unfortunately, when you neglect your own self-care, it hinders your capacity to make a positive impact.

Self-care and family time are not personal luxuries. They are essential for effective spiritual leadership. While congregations and communities should be mindful of the toll the holiday season can take on spiritual leaders, leaders must make self-care and family non-negotiable. In this week’s blog, I explore how to avoid burnout during the holiday season.

Avoiding Burnout: Establish Healthy Boundaries

Leaders who are successful at achieving a healthy work-life balance set and maintain boundaries. By setting and maintaining healthy boundaries, you prevent burnout and stay enthusiastic in your ministry. Remember, taking care of yourself allows you to serve others better.

Here are some tips to help you establish healthy boundaries between your professional and personal life:

Clearly define your workspace. The pandemic saw us all have an ever-increasing amount of work coming home. A dedicated workspace can help create a physical and mental separation between work and home life. This will define a clear distinction between work time and personal time.
Prioritize self-care. Make time for activities that bring you joy and help you relax. Take time for your favorite hobbies, cherish moments with your loved ones, and take adequate breaks to rejuvenate yourself.
Learn to say no. Don’t take on more than you can handle. Prioritize your commitments. Learn to delegate to others so that all the work doesn’t fall on your shoulders.

Avoiding Burnout: Communicate Your Needs

Leaders must communicate openly and honestly about their needs to the personnel committee during the holiday season. This is not about complaining but informing them about family commitments, just like everyone else. By doing so, you are setting a healthy example for them to follow.

Here are some tips to help you communicate your needs to those around you:

Communicate your availability to those around you. Avoid taking work-related calls, text messages, or emails outside these designated hours. Clearly define your work hours and stick to them.
Let others know your limitations. You are human and have personal needs. By communicating to those around you where you need assistance, it allows them to know where they can help and cements spiritual community and belonging.
Communicate the importance of self-care and work-life balance. Educate your community about how this makes you more present and effective in your ministry. Encourage them to join you in this practice. Set an example and incorporate it into your sermons and teachings.

Avoiding Burnout: Nurture Your Spirituality

Amidst the busy holiday season, it may be tempting to prioritize doing over being. However, nurturing and maintaining spiritual grounding is vital for your well-being. It allows you to step away from the demands of ministry and connect with a deeper sense of support and understanding.

Here are some tips to help you nurture your spirituality:

Spend quiet time with God. By finding the inner strength in these moments, you will be better equipped to support others. Cultivating this relationship will refresh your spirit during a season that has many external demands.
Immerse yourself in the hymns of the season. There are so many rich and meaningful hymns to help you reflect on your personal journey of celebration. Allow the message of these praises to build your spiritual grounding.
Practice Centering Prayer. Finding your own deep connection to love and faith to God will guide you to the support and intention to be in God’s presence. This will open divine action inside yourself and allow you to better serve those around you.

Next Steps

Embracing a holistic approach to ministry is crucial for clergy. Avoid burnout during the holiday season by establishing healthy boundaries, communicating your needs, and nurturing your spirituality. In this way you can achieve a more harmonious and gratifying holiday season while staying true to your spiritual calling.

Go ahead, be selfish. Remember that these steps are not only beneficial for you but for the communities you serve. By prioritizing your well-being, ensure that you can continue to fulfill your sacred duty to guide and support others. Your congregations and communities will thank you for it.

If you’re a leader feeling the weight of this season, know that you are not alone. It’s okay to seek help, to ask for support, and to prioritize your well-being. Here’s my invitation to you. I invite you to reach out to schedule a one-on-one with my team. You don’t have to navigate this journey on your own. Even leaders need help, particularly during the holiday season. Burnout not required!

Mastering the Art of Listening

by Rebekah Simon-Peter | Nov 21, 2023

Listening stands at the foundation of effective leadership in ministry. As a spiritual leader, your ability to listen strengthens your connections. It opens the door to spiritual growth and understanding. Through an intentional listening practice, you can discern your people’s needs, and respond to them with compassion and wisdom. Mastering the art of listening can strengthen your ministry and make a positive difference in the lives of those you serve.

In this blog, I will explore the impact of active listening, and provide practical insights to enhance this skill in your spiritual and communal journey. Join me as we uncover the transformative power of mastering the art of listening, and its ability to enrich our spiritual lives.

Listening in Ministry

Listening is an indispensable part of effective leadership. It enables you to comprehend your community’s needs. If you listen with an open mind, you will better understand the struggles, needs, and spiritual journeys of your community. This understanding allows you to tailor your ministry accordingly, creating a safe and inclusive space. Through this deep listening, you can build empathy and meaningful relationships within your ministry.

Mastering the Art of Listening: Make a conscious effort to actively listen during meetings, services, and interactions with the members of your spiritual community. Take note of how this practice enhances your understanding and connection within the community. Don’t simply wait for your turn to speak. Focus on hearing and understanding the perspectives of others.

Listening as a Spiritual Practice

Listening as a spiritual practice transcends mere skill. It is an action that connects you to divine guidance. Attentive listening opens you to the subtle whispers of spiritual wisdom in your interactions, revealing deep insights and understanding. By cultivating the art of listening to God, you establish a sacred connection with the world around you. The practice allows you to be present to the needs and experiences of others. You honor their inherent worth and value, and find connection within yourself to how God is speaking through them. Incorporating listening as a spiritual practice into your daily life invites you to slow down and be fully present.

Mastering the Art of Listening: Incorporate daily reflective practices and mindful listening into your spiritual routine. Set aside regular time for quiet reflection. Pay attention to the powerful insights and connections that emerge from these moments of stillness. Ask yourself what emotional or spiritual filters you bring. Even better, what are you hearing from God? These questions can help guide your listening as a spiritual practice.

Listening and Conflict Resolution

As a leader, you are the spiritual guide to conflict resolution. Conflict is never resolved without listening. It requires being fully present and attentive. In order to truly understand the perspectives of others involved in the conflict, you must listen carefully. Conflict is a part of life, and if you fear it, you won’t be open to actively listen. Without active listening, there will be disconnect and further separation. Active listening demonstrates respect and validation for the other person’s feelings and opinions. By actively listening, we create a safe space for open dialogue and encourage a collaborative approach to conflict resolution.

Mastering the Art of Listening: Next time you encounter a conflict, practice active listening by fully engaging with the other person’s perspective. Pay attention to nonverbal cues and ask questions to clarify and deepen your understanding. Notice how this approach can help diffuse tension and lead to productive resolution. Don’t be afraid of the conflict. See it as an opportunity to engage in active listening and to learn about the needs of your spiritual community.

Mastering the transformative art of listening profoundly impacts your ministry, relationships, and spiritual growth. By cultivating this skill, you become more attuned to the needs and experiences of your spiritual community. Active listening invites you to immerse yourself in the stories of others, enriching your perspective and strengthening your bond to your community. It may not always be easy, but it is crucial to set aside our need to talk and acknowledge that we can improve as listeners.

That is why I invite you to join my upcoming Readiness 4 Renewal seminar. Through six 90-minute online sessions, you will use four specific leadership skills that promote renewal: Group Culture Awareness, Powerful Reframing, Clarifying your Call, and Gaining Alignment. These skills will help you explore the impact of group dynamics, expand your emotional intelligence and empathy, equip and empower others for community engagement, and envision your next steps toward creating a culture of renewal. All of this will lead to better listening and a stronger connection to your community. Join me and learn the power of listening in promoting renewal in our churches!

Lessons from the Early Church: Overcoming Conflict

by Rebekah Simon-Peter | Nov 14, 2023

Conflict is an undeniable reality in any community, including the church. If not handled properly, conflict can result in division, hurt, and, ultimately, a decline in the church’s influence and effectiveness. However, you can take practical steps to resolve conflicts within your church. Even if things don’t come out the way you want them to, you can lead your spiritual community toward a path of unity and peace.

The early church faced many challenges when it tried to integrate wildly different religious traditions, world views, and cultural expectations into one unified community. It was tough work. People being people, gossip, “my-way-ism”, and bitterness were rampant. This led to ongoing conflict. Yet, they managed to work out their differences and successfully create the church as we know it. Let’s see what lessons we can learn from the early church in overcoming conflict and what action steps you can take.

Gossip

In the book of Acts, people felt threatened about the inclusion of non-Jews in the community. This idea of including Gentiles was a radical departure of the way things had been done in the past. So, they gossiped. This gossip spread discord and undermined relationships. It threatened to splinter the new relationships that were forming. (See Acts 11:1-3) However, the early church set a remarkable example in handling gossip by directly communicating with the individuals involved and diligently working towards restoring relationships.

Lessons from the early church: Take a good look at yourself. If you gossip about others, stop. While it feels powerful in the moment, gossip can do more damage than good. If you hear others gossiping, ask them to stop. Seek out others hurt by gossip and apologize to them. Express a genuine openness towards others who are different than you. By doing so, you serve as a peacemaker in your community and promote unity.

My Way-ism

Vigorous debate marked many important decisions outlined in the New Testament. Debate turned to disagreement when people insisted on “my-way-ism.” They suffered from an inability to lay aside their own ideas in favor of a common vision and purpose. The lack of a common vision and purpose was at the root of inclusion of Jews and Gentiles in a single community, financial support for the larger church, and responses to persecution. All of this debate and disagreement led Paul to write these words to the Ephesians: “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3). Miraculously, early church leaders collaborated to find common ground, ultimately establishing a shared vision and purpose.

Lessons from the early church: Whether your conflicts are about building projects, budget constraints, or matters of human sexuality, there is something you can do. The first thing is to engage in active listening. Seek an understanding of the perspectives of others. Remember, the motivations behind another’s views may be vastly different, or surprisingly similar, to yours. The key is to inquire and ask; proper understanding can only be achieved through open dialogue. This allows you to find common ground to move forward in unity.

Bitterness

Paul and Barnabas who had once been inseparable, were divided over a deep dispute of the trustworthiness of John Mark (Acts 15:36-41). In a moment of bitterness, Paul and Barnabas went their separate ways. Paul took Silas to Syria and Cilicia. Meanwhile, Barnabas took John Mark and set sail for Cyprus. It’s unclear if this break in the relationship was ever mended. In contrast, addressing conflict constructively led to reconciliation and unity, as seen in resolving the dispute over Gentile believers in Acts.

Lessons from the early church: When division leads to bitterness, don’t just turn your back on the conflict. Don’t gossip about the other. Don’t insist on things going your way. Instead, seek resolution by approaching the other with a listening ear. Pray for guidance and wisdom, and strive to find common ground that aligns with the church’s overarching mission and purpose.

The Church: Then and Now

The early church’s experiences reveal that conflict is not new to the church and will likely not go away anytime soon. As a church leader or member, you are responsible for guarding the church’s unity, addressing conflicts when they arise, and seeking resolution that honors God and builds up God’s people. We can learn from the past and apply those lessons to current situations. Constructive approaches to conflict resolution include openness, a willingness to listen, and a focus on unity.

Don’t wait until the next conflict arises; be proactive in building a healthy community within your church. If you are ready to take the next step, join me for an upcoming free seminar, How Christian Ministries are Achieving Success: An Introduction to Creating a Culture of Renewal®. You will learn how to cultivate a culture of renewal in your church while addressing conflicts effectively.

I have helped thousands of church leaders learn how to address conflict constructively. Now, in the wake of disaffiliations and polarizing disagreement, this is more important than ever. if you’d like to connect individually, my team and I would be happy to hear from you. To reach out to us, simply fill out this short form and we’ll be in touch! I look forward to hearing from you.

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