Piece of cheese in a mousetrap

Bill Wilson of the Center for Healthy Churches says that the arrival of a new minister can be a marvelous opportunity to start anew for both the minister and the congregation -- but only if the pastor steers clear of four common traps that can derail the new relationship.

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Jigsaw puzzle in the shape of a _100 bill
 
Angela Denker describes how stewardship and giving can be difficult in times of pastoral transition in churches. She says it is critical that stewardship be rooted in faith and in God's mission, not in the individual pastor's particular vision.

The Right Question
Leaders do not need answers. Leaders must have the right questions. 

Leaders are often tempted to think about what they might do in some future position. Some high-potential leaders struggle rather than grow because they fail to invest fully in the work they are doing right now. This is part of the "talent curse" described by Jennifer and Gianpiero Petriglieri who offer this right question:
 
What if my current work is not a stepping-stone, but a destination?

The Right Start Video Tool Kit

Are you a pastor preparing to begin ministry in a new setting? With The Right Start Video Tool Kit , you'll learn how to end your current ministry well, develop a personal transition plan, and make the most of your first days, weeks, and months in your new congregation. The Right Start is available in both Pastor's and Group Training Versions.

Hands holding a ball of cash
 
It's often said that Christians are the most generous people. Unfortunately, it turns out this claim is not entirely true. Even though Christians are more generous than non-religious Americans, that's not much to brag about. The vast majority of Christians are not giving up to their potential or in proportion to what their faith teaches. Read "To the Point: Giving Up to Our Potential."

Quotable Leadership

We cannot predict the future. But we can create it.

Jim Collins and Morten T. Hansen
Free Video - The New Realities of Engaging Newcomers

This five-minute video by Lovett H. Weems, Jr., provides an overview of how new people are coming into church communities in different ways than previously, what it means for your congregation, and what you can do to engage these newcomers today.

Journey through the Psalms

Take an in-depth look at the book of Psalms. Through study of the Word and insights gained through the arts, this course invites us to approach God with the same honesty and intensity as the ancient Psalmists.  Journey through the Psalms is ideal for your congregation's small groups, adult Bible studies, and Sunday School classes. The study includes eight sessions with video introductions, Leader's Guide, Participant's Guide, and more.


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