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Nov 21
2008
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There is no doubt that times are changing...the only constant is change itself. This applies to pastoral ministry as well.
I have been in some form of pastoral ministry for half of my life, [ i.e., 18 years...do the math :) ]. Although this is a short period of time relative to many of my colleagues in vocational ministry, I have seen and experienced some of the mass changes related to paradigms and expectations for those who work as primary leaders of the Church.
I have struggled over the past several years (even as a church planter and lead pastor) as to whether or not I fit the mold of what I was trained to be...the answer (so far)...I definitely feel like fish out of water. I am self-aware enough to know (with the help of my wife, of course) that I would suffocate myself and be a disservice to our community if I simply took on the role I was taught to take on during my years of formal bible education. Quite honestly, for awhile, I questioned my place as a pastor (or whatever title you want to give it).
The shoe just didn't fit. I'm not just talking here about stylistic changes or aesthetic development. I'm sensing that the overall role of a pastor will seismically shift in the years to come. I know from conversations I've participated in around the country that I'm not the only one who feels this way.
