Reply to Tormented Youth Pastor

on October 9th, 2009

Got an email from “Tormented Youth Pastor” this week. Thought I would post the reply even though you don’t know the question:

Well … from your email, I’d say you already have a strong leaning to leave, but figured I’d chime in anyhow. Here’s what I think:

First off … Leaving a church is one of the most difficult decisions you’ll ever make. Take your time with it, and be sure not to process out loud too much. The church has made up their mind, and they are sticking behind him. Any less and you’ll be seen as divisive. Walk carefully here.

It sounds like you’re confident that the pastor is wrong and the elders are wrong, so following them as leaders will be challenging to say the least. Not respecting the leadership undermines your heart there and chips away at your desire to serve. You’ll have trouble staying positive and not taking little shots at them soon. No wonder you’re struggling! I wish this was less common so hang in there.

Here’s the problem – it IS greener on the other side of the fence but at 4 years you’re just getting to the good stuff. Plus you don’t really feel called **away** from your ministry – I’d much rather you have the confidence to know your supposed to be gone as opposed to called **to** another church. To me, there’s a huge difference.

I would walk through this time as a church and when the dust settles as God gives you peace to leave … Then do just that. I’m not convinced now is the time, but probably soon?

Praying for you as I type this.

JG


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Comments (3)

Anonymous for fear of reprisal... at 1:51pm October 10

So I am not sure what prompted you to post this, but this is the EXACT situation I have been wading through the last couple months. I read articles and books saying you should be called “to” someplace not “from” someplace in these situations, but I don’t want to hurt the church I am at currently. Plus the other church where grass is greener is on the other side of town, which throws a new wrinkle into the mess. Anyhow, thanks for posting this and know God is using what you’re doing.

good advice from GRIFF on transitions | abnormalize at 12:34pm October 11

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