This is not about church … that’s just the context for a leadership coaching question.
Some of you know I am a member of a specific Christian Protestant denomination. Like many, our mainline small band has experienced change over the years and it’s not always pleasant. One of the primary issues is the conflict between older members who bewail the lack of engagement of younger members and younger members who bewail the lack of energy and opportunity combined with envious eyes toward “the way it used to be.”
This particularly affects our newer ordained ministers. To read about the struggles of one articulate and very passionate young leader who is leaving our denomination, go to “SO LONG” Here’s my response to Ryan’s announcement:
First, thank you for your contributions. They have not been ignored or missed, but our denomination will be lesser for your leaving.
Next, a word to those who see things differently.
Well, yeah … we all have our personal realities, shaped by our experiences, our backgrounds, and our psychological and emotional make-ups. Where some see death, others see growth. It’s not about deciding which is right, it’s about deciding which is your vision and acting on that.
I feel regret because I’m afraid you are just one of many, ordained and lay, who see their future serving God in other ways than through the Disciples. I have served in lay leadership positions with several congregations, worked for a national ministry for 10 years, and have a deep affection for the Disciples. I also see what I name as “warts” in our denomination.
Bottom line: we each have to do what we see as the best earthly manifestation of God’s will for us and trust that we are doing and being close to what he wants and asks of us.
Godspeed, friend, and you aren’t really moving that far. God appears to be pretty popular in OKC and unlike us humans, he does not have a denominational preference:)
My questions on this early Spring Sunday morning (yes, I know it’s technically still winter and I don’t care):
What would you say to a young and somewhat frustrated person who wants to serve and cannot find a way to do so in their current environment?
How would you advise them on whether they should stay or go?
Eagerly awaiting the blooming of flowers, growing of grass, and your responses in the Heartland.
John
