Exploring Embedded Expertise

by Caitlin Trussell

I’ve worked with seven different pastors in my 12 years with my current congregation—two settled senior pastors, three interim/bridge pastors, and two term-contract pastors who currently work with me as I’ve been the senior pastor over the past year. What strikes me today is the humanity of each of the people in those roles. Simultaneously saint-and-sinner, the lot of us.

One of the boons of working with these pastors was experiencing their strengths and challenges. Each had their way of proclaiming the gospel, getting work done, and building relationships within the congregation. Their humanity was on display as the congregation went through the highs and lows of congregational life along with the swings in the wider culture. Perspective on the role, gifts, and personality of each pastor is helpful for congregations to consider when making aspirational plans to guide ministry or when reconciling relationships as things go sideways. Being simultaneously saint-and-sinner applies to congregations and church staff, too. Complex human systems can benefit from an extra set of eyes from outside that system.

Consulting and coaching can bring a much-needed new perspective when it’s difficult to tease apart the humanity at play in any given situation. Sometimes we’re just too close to the situation to see the gifts and the challenges in ourselves and to see ourselves through the next right steps in a non-profit ministry or congregation’s life. The expertise embedded in oh-so-human systems can be brought to light, explored, organized, and celebrated as we navigate the way of Jesus.

Please feel free to contact us at Pinnacle West if you are interested in learning more about coaching or consulting.