By Denise Craig, CAE CCA
We weren’t designed to live life alone. That includes ministry leadership. Even way back in Genesis 2, God said it wasn’t good for man to be alone. As leaders, we can encourage everyone in our churches to join a small group, but do we think the best practices of belonging to a community apply to us? Leaders should actively seek to be part of a community rather than operating alone for several reasons:
- Multiplied Wisdom — Community provides access to diverse prospectives and insights. When leaders engage with other leaders, they tap into collective wisdom, experiences, and knowledge of others. Not just that, but collaboration fosters creativity and innovation. Together, we can reach better solutions to common problems.
- Encouragement — Even though leadership can bring a great deal of joy, it can also be tough at times, even isolating. The responsibility and challenges of decision-making can feel weighty, but sharing the load can make it feel much lighter. Leaders need a space to be vulnerable, to acknowledge they don’t have it all together, and know others are there to support them.
- Lead by Example — We can’t expect our congregations to do what we are not willing to do ourselves. Leaders who encourage community and are part of a community themselves are authentic and walk in integrity. Their words and actions align, which promotes trust and mutual accountability.
- Prevent Burnout or Moral Failure — Feeling like it’s all on you is exhausting, and if that sentiment continues over time, it can have dire consequences, such as burnout, poor relationships, or even moral failure. Lean on a group of other leaders for sound advice, utilize delegation with your staff team, and have others help you set healthy boundaries if you struggle with this on your own.
- Create Healthier Teams — When leaders make community a priority, it comes through in everything they do. They model teamwork and value collaboration, and it makes team members feel more supported.
Leaders were designed for community. Community is where we can find shared wisdom, encouragement, and a place to be real and stay healthy. Life is a journey. Don’t go it alone.
If you are looking for a place to belong – a place where ministry leaders can connect, share ideas, and grow – join us at The Church Network! In fact, our upcoming conference is a great place to start. The theme is Running Together, inspired by Hebrews 12:1. We’ll be gathering July 9-12 at the Central Bank Center in Lexington, KY. We would love to meet you and welcome you into our community!
Related URLS:
The Church Network Conference: https://www.thechurchnetwork.com/2024conference
TCN Membership: Membership Benefits (thechurchnetwork.com)
TCN Events: Events List (thechurchnetwork.com)
Denise Craig, CAE CCA is a strategic leader who is passionate about helping others discover their God-given purpose so they can live and lead well. With over twenty years of personal experience in church leadership, Denise is honored to serve as the Chief Executive Officer of The Church Network. She is a Certified Association Executive, a Certified Church Administrator, and a Certified Financial Coach. Denise serves on the advisory panel for Church Executive and is a regular speaker for conferences, Bible studies, and financial seminars.
Denise can be reached at denise@thechurchnetwork.com.
