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Read: Romans 12:14, Matthew 5:44, Luke 6:28

Disclaimer: This reflection is based on my experiences as a leadership coach, spiritual director , and mentor, and biblical principles of good faith and integrity. While inspired by real situations, it is not intended to accuse or name any specific individual or organization. It is an invitation to examine how we, as leaders and as people of faith, handle truth, trust, and fairness. This is a leadership reflection drawn from my 20+ years of experience. It’s not about one specific case—it’s about the bigger truth that processes, in any setting, can lose their soul when people forget the human side. My hope is to encourage courage, integrity, and care in every leader, no matter the field. In leadership, trust is the currency that makes progress possible. Good faith is more than honesty—it’s a shared commitment to truth, fairness, and the well-being of all involved. But what happens when you step into a process believing those values are mutual… and discover they are not? In my work as a leadership coach, spiritual director, and mentor, I’ve been thinking about how good faith shapes every decision we make — both in our leadership and in our life with God. Whether I’m helping a leader navigate a high-stakes decision or guiding someone in their spiritual formation, the themes are the same: trust, alignment with God, and follow-through. Good faith isn’t just a leadership competency; it’s a spiritual posture. It’s the fruit of a life being formed by Truth. And when spiritual leaders, — or the systems they steward — fail to act in good faith, they undermine not only results but relationships, not only credibility but the soul’s capacity to trust. Proverbs 11:1 says, “The Lord detests dishonest scales, but accurate weights find favor with him.” Good faith is like accurate scales — measuring with honesty, without hidden agendas, and making decisions without bias or self-protection. It’s transparency. It’s trust. It’s following through on what’s promised. Bad faith is the opposite. It’s like a dishonest scale — tilting the measure before the weight is even set. It hides behind procedure. It delays, deflects, and sometimes pretends to be fair while quietly steering toward a predetermined outcome. It protects the system instead of the Truth. Leaders are constantly asked about the “cost” — cost of a decision, cost of a project, cost of a change. But in healthy leadership, that question is asked in good faith  — to make wise, fair, and transparent decisions. What happens when you share the actual cost — openly and factually — but that cost is met with silence, delay, or quiet dismissal? In those moments, you begin to ask yourself: Was the request for cost truly in good faith? Or was it made to check a box, to appear fair, while the outcome had already been decided? That’s where leadership integrity and spiritual formation meet. Good faith in leadership is not just about fiscal responsibility; it’s about stewardship of trust. Bad faith erodes both — it undermines results and relationships, but also shapes the soul of the organization in ways that are hard to repair. Jesus once told the story of a widow who kept coming before a judge, asking for justice. The judge didn’t fear God and didn’t care about people, but her persistence wore him down until he granted her what was right. (Luke 18:1–8) Like that widow, you can enter a process in good faith, believing that fairness will prevail — only to discover that no one seems to fear God, no one seems to care about people, and it seems God has never been at the center of the process at all. And sometimes you may even wonder… if the same gatekeepers who once held the concern in their hands are now the ones holding the scales. And then it just looks like the whole process is bad faith, and you start to wonder who in the process still fears God — and who truly cares about people. When you stand in good faith, some may ghost you, and sometimes, that’s the sign that you are standing in good faith in the middle of a bad faith process. But don’t be discouraged. In over two decades of leadership, I’ve seen this truth again and again: silence does not always mean opposition. Sometimes it hides quiet agreement, waiting for a spark. The prayer—and the calling—for every leader is to embody such integrity and conviction that others are stirred to step out of the shadows and stand for what’s right. That's when you realize that persistence is simply praying that good faith will show up, one day. This is your stand. This is you being the persistent widow. Because here’s the truth I keep circling back to in my 20+ years of experience: the heart of the problem isn’t always the tactics or the delays — sometimes it’s deeper than that. Sometimes it’s that a process has lost its soul. The rules get followed, the boxes get checked, but the spirit of love and care for people is missing. And so maybe bad faith… is also not believing that God is going to show up. And good faith is knowing that God sees all, knows all, and will judge all. As you read this blog, you may have remembered a moment that made you wonder in that process: Will good faith or bad faith prevail? And as a leader, I’m still asking that question too — not just for myself, but for the many processes and people I’ve witnessed over the years. Because sometimes good faith wins, sometimes bad faith wins, and sometimes… we wait to see which will speak louder in the end. And I’ll let you know when I know. And I will know. And so will you. Prayer: Lord, Teach us to walk in good faith — to speak truthfully, to act justly, and to measure every word and decision with integrity. Give us hearts that value honesty over convenience and truth over appearance. And give us keen discernment to recognize when we are slipping into bad faith — so we can turn, repent, and realign with You. When we face silence, delays, or withdrawal from others, help us to remember that You have not withdrawn from us. Remind us that You see all, know all, and will judge all with perfect justice. Keep our hope anchored in Your timing, not in human timelines. Make us people whose actions match our words, whose faith is steady, and whose integrity reflects Your heart. May good faith be our testimony, our witness, and our legacy. Please help us be found faithful. In Jesus’ name, Amen. Reflection Questions: 1. Who in my life has shown me what true good faith looks like? In what ways can I practice good faith? 2. What does persistence look like for me in this season — and what practical ways can I practice persistence? 3. When is it wise to call a process bad faith, and what signs make it clear? I would love to hear your stories, share them with me: contact Joycelyn

Ministry Disclaimer: Drawing on over 20 years of leadership experience and training in church growth dynamics, I offer these insights to help nurture a healthy, Christ-centered church culture. This post is not about any one church, but is intended to inspire reflection, prayer, and courageous conversation in all faith communities. Every church context is unique, so this post is not legal advice and should not replace guidance from qualified legal, professional, or pastoral advisors familiar with your specific situation. Above all, seek God’s wisdom, act in love, and remain anchored in His truth. Church culture is based on the behaviors and beliefs of that congregation. A congregation creates a culture based on how it responds to certain beliefs and behaviors. And then it can become known for those beliefs and behaviors of people who do not attend that church or those who do. The leaders in a church drive the culture because their responsibility is to guide a church in being a reflection of what the congregation believes and practices. You may say, "Well, I'm not a leader, so I am not responsible for the culture." Unfortunately, this isn't true because every person who participates in a congregation either perpetuates a particular culture thru their actions or inactions." It's what happened during the civil rights movement; black and white people said, we will not tolerate this culture of discrimination, so people like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., John Lewis, Rosa Parks, and others decided to act on what they believed in challenging the discriminatory culture. Action can perpetuate and challenge culture and inaction also perpetuates culture as well. It's what Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said, "The ultimate tragedy is not the oppression and cruelty by the bad people but the silence over that by the good people." Edmund Burke said, "The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." More and more people are sharing stories about their experiences in toxic church environments. It is heartbreaking. If you listen to the reports, you would think only a few people are creating the toxicity, but it's not just those people; it's the church's culture. I was told that in one church, at least thirteen people have had similar experiences as I have had or worse. Thirteen people? How did it move beyond two? Culture. The people in the congregation are perpetuating and affirming certain types of behaviors thru the way they respond to them. More than likely, those in power prioritized protecting the institution rather than the people. This is a very common response in churches that have a toxic culture. Wade Mullen explains how this happens when a person challenges the toxic culture. He says, "An organization or culture that perpetuates abuse will question the motives of those who ask questions, make the discussion of problems the problem, condemn those who condemn, silence those who break silence, and descend upon those who dissent." This is how a toxic culture is perpetuated and affirmed. Once this happens, the culture becomes a culture of control, weariness, fear, secrecy, silence, and indifference. And in the words of one of my leadership mentors, "Culture wins every time." Culture can be so irresistible, whether good or bad. Just think that in one congregation where thirteen people have experienced toxicity, culture is winning 13 - 0. However, there is hope! There are four ways to overcome a toxic culture and nurture a safe church culture. Tell the Truth- speak up when you believe something is wrong. Be respectful. The freedom to disagree or share what you believe is right, based on scripture, nurtures a safe church culture. There may be times when you agree to disagree, but every voice should matter. Seek the Truth- Ask questions. Don't let someone tell you who you can't talk with while trying to discover the Truth of a situation. Know the Truth- You must know God's Word. Do the attitudes, actions, policies, procedures, etc., align with scripture? The corporate structure should not be the authority on how the church conducts its business as long as what is done does not break the law. The Bible should be the final authority on policy and procedures. If you don't know God's Word, you can fall prey to deception and get sucked into using the corporate model as your guide. This is bringing the world into the church. One tip is that if attitudes, actions, policies, procedures, etc., are not filtered thru the lens of love, they do not align with scripture. John 8:32 says, "And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." Truth breaks the chains of a toxic culture. No one who practices deception can survive in culture where Truth is a priority. Another way a safe church culture can be nurtured is thru repentance. Repentance means a change of heart and a change of direction. It's Godly sorrow. When a congregation discovers that it has participated in affirming toxic behavior and a toxic culture, there must be individual and corporate repentance. Repentance breaks the chains of toxicity. As Christians, we are called to create communities of love and safety. Making Truth the priority and practicing repentance as individuals and as a corporate body are two of the most loving ways to nurture a culture that is safeguarded against toxicity. A person who affirms toxicity in a church cannot survive in a culture that practices repentance. Don't lose hope. You can nurture a safe church culture because scripture says, "...that with God, all things are possible (Matthew 19:26) because nothing is impossible with God Luke 1:37. Do NOT forget to check out our RESOURCES. Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash Photo by Markus Winkler on Unsplash Photo by Rob Martin on Unsplash

In today's Church, the need for active voices and engagement has never been more urgent. The heartbreaking story of Kitty Genovese—a woman brutally attacked while bystanders looked on and did nothing—highlights the dangers of inaction. This phenomenon, known as the "bystander effect," resonates deeply in our spiritual communities. It particularly impacts women, especially Black women, who may feel called to lead. As you read this, consider how you can rise and awaken the reformers within, breaking free from silence and passivity. Scripture says in Proverbs 31:8–9 (NIV) "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy." Understanding the Bystander Effect The bystander effect is a psychological reality where people witnessing an emergency fail to act, thinking someone else will take responsibility. Studies show that when there are more witnesses, the likelihood of someone intervening decreases. For instance, research from Columbia University indicates that when there are just two bystanders, the chances of intervention rise to 80%. However, with five or more bystanders, this rate dramatically drops below 30%. In our Church communities, this effect often plays out in the experiences of women who are marginalized. Many suffer under toxic leadership, believing others will advocate for them. This silence allows injustice to grow, perpetuating the idea that someone else will address the needs of those affected. James 4:17 (ESV) "So whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him it is sin." This verse names the sin of inaction. It affirms that knowing and failing to act is not neutral—it is a spiritual failure. The Complacency of Passivity Isaiah 32:9-20 offers a powerful reminder: “Rise up, you women who are at ease; hear my voice; you complacent daughters, give ear to my speech.” These verses challenge complacency directly, urging us to awaken from spiritual slumber. Those of us in the body of Christ must recognize the urgent need for justice. Reflect on how frequently we assume someone else will protect those in pain. While the comfort of inactivity is tempting—fear of backlash or the notion that “it’s not my place”—this mindset perpetuates harm. Isaiah 32:9–11 (ESV) “Rise up, you women who are at ease, hear my voice; you complacent daughters, give ear to my speech. In little more than a year you will shudder, you complacent women; for the grape harvest fails, the fruit harvest will not come.” Isaiah's prophetic word calls out passivity directly and prophetically. It affirms the cost of spiritual sleep and delays in righteous action. A Call to Break the Silence Esther 4:14 (NIV) "For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place... And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?" Esther's charge mirrors the Church’s moment now. Silence in the face of injustice is a dangerous choice, especially when God may have positioned us specifically  to speak. Women in Christ have a divine responsibility to break the silence that stifles so many. Just like the witnesses to Genovese's murder failed to act, many in the Church have remained passive regarding women's suffering. Consider the emotional and systemic wounds inflicted on women, often downplayed by those in leadership. For example, a study from the Barna Group revealed that 30% of women active in church feel unheard or marginalized. It is time for you to rise and respond to God's call to action. This call is not just about speaking against injustice. It’s about awakening the reformer within you. When you rise up, pray consciously, and act justly, you amplify a chorus of truth-bearers dedicated to dismantling outdated mindsets and bringing healing to the wounded. The Unique Role of Women in Leading Change Women hold a unique position to transform the spiritual culture of the Church. When you awaken, your voice resonates with experience and understanding. You are familiar with the struggles of trauma, spiritual warfare, and the futility of silence. When many remain bystanders, your courage to address these issues can spark significant change. By acknowledging the past while actively reshaping the future, you become a beacon of hope. Isaiah 32 reminds us that complacency will not lead to the transformation we desire. Commit to being part of the solution; choose action over fears and apathy. Micah 6:8 (CSB) "Mankind, he has told each of you what is good and what it is the Lord requires of you: to act justly, to love faithfulness, and to walk humbly with your God." This reminds us that acting justly is not optional—it’s required. Women are uniquely equipped to do this work with wisdom, humility, and courage. The Spiritual Culture Shift A significant shift in spiritual culture starts when individuals stop being silent observers and recognize themselves as reformers. The call to action isn’t just for leaders; it’s for every believer. Imagine if every woman who has faced injustice began to speak out. Picture the barriers that could fall, the hearts that could mend, and the lives that could be transformed. When your voice joins with others, it creates a powerful movement against indifference. The Church must no longer wait for someone else to intervene; it should actively support and uplift every member. Romans 12:2 (NLT) "Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think." Transforming spiritual culture means rejecting the old norms of silence and complicity and embracing Spirit-led renewal and boldness. A Prophetic Call to Action Now is the moment to awaken the reformer within you. Stand against the bystander effect that has seeped into the Church. Speak up for those who cannot advocate for themselves. Engage in prayer and support for women facing spiritual, emotional, and systemic challenges. Isaiah 58:1 (NLT) "Shout with the voice of a trumpet blast. Shout aloud! Don’t be timid. Tell my people Israel of their sins!" This is your clarion call—no more whispering truth. It’s time to cry aloud, to break the silence with righteous clarity. As you move forward, remember that addressing Church injustices means becoming stewards of change. Encourage those around you—both men and women—who understand the importance of support and intervention. Final Thoughts Together, as a unified body of believers, we can create a culture of compassion and advocacy. We are called to be truth-bearers, reformers, and intercessors. Reject participation in a culture where injustice is overlooked or normalized. Awaken the reformer within you and let your voice resonate throughout your community. It is time to rise and declare that silence is no longer acceptable. Ephesians 5:11 (NIV) "Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them." Expose. Don’t excuse. That is the work of a reformer—especially in a Church that has too often protected power at the expense of the vulnerable. A close-up view of an ancient stone altar symbolizing transformation and spiritual awakening. In this season of awakening, let every woman and man remember: you are not just a bystander; you are an agent of change, a vessel of hope, and a champion for justice! An eye-level view of open Bible pages emphasizing highlighted verses on justice and truth.

Over the past two years, I've faced the challenging battle for justice within the Church. This journey has often felt isolating, as if I were a solitary voice in a vast silence. Isaiah 32:17 tells us, “The work of righteousness will be peace, and the effect of righteousness, quietness and assurance forever.” But what does it truly mean to pursue peace through righteousness when the very institutions meant to uphold it sometimes prioritize reputation over meaningful change? This experience has made me contemplate the difference between genuine peace and a false sense of quiet—a thought that deserves our attention as we reflect on Isaiah's profound message. The Loneliness of Standing Alone for What’s Right Advocating for justice can often feel like an enormous weight to carry alone. The loneliness is palpable, amplifying doubts about your beliefs. Many people, particularly in the Church, can relate to this feeling. When I raised my voice about important issues, I found that many chose to ignore or dismiss my concerns. My truth felt sidelined. Yet, in this solitude, I discovered something powerful: while I might have been alone in my advocacy, I was not abandoned at least by God anyway. God’s presence offered me comfort and assurance during the toughest moments. This reminded me of a statistic from a recent study showing that 70% of advocates report feeling isolated in their fight for justice, echoing my own experience. And let me say this clearly: I know there are some who have supported me—who have stood with me in prayer, spoken a word of encouragement, or simply refused to look away. I am deeply grateful. Your presence, even when quiet, mattered. But the truth remains—there were many moments I stood alone, without an advocate. And it’s in that lonely space that I learned the difference between performative peace and the quiet assurance that only righteousness can produce The Exhausting Toll of Being the Only Voice in the Room Being the only one advocating for change in a public way can be exhausting and discouraging. After countless attempts to seek understanding and collaboration, I frequently met resistance. Even my strengths—my discernment, my conviction, my ability to speak the truth in love—were weaponized against me. And not just by strangers. By unlikely people. People I once believed would be my greatest advocates. But over time, their commitment to ‘the church’—or rather, the institution—proved stronger than their commitment to righteousness. To justice. To me. That revelation broke something in me. But it also birthed something holy: a deeper resolve to pursue the peace that only righteousness produces. The quietness that doesn’t come from silence, but from truth finally being honored. But Isaiah 32:17 reminds me: the fruit of righteousness is not applause—it’s peace. Quietness. Assurance. Not because I conformed, but because I stood is a common struggle for many advocates. Research shows that nearly 60% of people fighting for justice feel fatigued in their efforts due to lack of support and I know that sense of fatigue very well. In these tough times, we must remember Isaiah’s promise: our dedication to justice is not in vain. True peace lies ahead, but we must persevere, even amid fatigue, isolation, and daunting challenges. The Difference Between Quietness That Comes from Coercion vs. Quietness That Follows Justice We must recognize the distinction between enforced silence and the peace that emerges from justice. False peace often hides unresolved pain beneath a surface calm. It might feel easier to sweep issues under the rug, avoiding uncomfortable dialogues. However, the peace described in Isaiah 32:17 does not stem from avoidance. Instead, it springs from actively engaging in righteousness, which may unsettle the status quo but ultimately leads to real peace. Consider this: an employee survey revealed that organizations fostering open dialogues about challenges saw a 50% increase in trust among members. This highlights that healthy confrontation can pave the way for genuine harmony. A Longing for a Day When Righteousness Won’t Cost You So Much to Pursue What happens when pursuing righteousness comes with a hefty price? Often, our voices feel stifled as we attempt to reveal hard truths. During my advocacy within the Church for more than 20 years, I yearned for a community willing to make sacrifices for true moral living, prioritizing real change over mere appearances. I often dreamt of a Church that would wholeheartedly embrace the complexities of righteousness—a place where uncomfortable conversations are seen as valuable rather than threatening. Studies indicate that 75% of churchgoers desire stronger engagement in social justice issues, yet many feel discouraged from voicing their concerns. This disconnect suggests a deeper need for a supportive community. A Prophetic Call for the Church to Choose Righteousness First, Even if It Disrupts Appearances My experiences represent a greater prophetic call for the Church: to boldly prioritize righteousness over superficial unity. We must focus on authentic justice, moving beyond appearances. This challenge is vital because true righteousness is the foundation of peace. It involves addressing the harsh realities faced by those within our communities. If we want to see real change, we must not shy away from our convictions. The Church needs reformers—people like you and me—who are willing to pursue justice, advocating for healing, restoration, and genuine peace. A Declaration of Faith in the Journey Ahead Looking back on my journey, I can confidently say that my efforts have not been in vain. Through my struggles, I have found a deep peace that guides me even in chaos. True serenity emerges after we confront reality. The peace born from righteousness is a gift I carry forward. To anyone—women, advocates, survivors, reformers—who reads this, remember, you are not alone. Your quest for justice may feel overwhelming, but know that the promise of Isaiah is for each of us. As we walk this path together, let us commit to righteousness, trusting that true peace will come when we stand together in truth. Let’s rise together, even when the journey feels daunting. We are called to engage actively in the pursuit of justice and righteousness, which will lead to a lasting assurance. This call necessitates that we tackle the difficult work of righteousness first, but it is undeniably the road toward genuine transformation and healing.

Disclaimer: The content of this post is based entirely on the vision of Shane Pippen and is shared here with his permission. It is not intended to accuse or identify any specific person or organization. The purpose is to offer this vision as a point of reflection and spiritual encouragement. Shane Pippin shared his vision about a Christian Leader on FB on July 19, 2024. I asked him for permission to post this vision on my blog. Last night, just minutes before midnight, I was pulled into a vision. I saw a prominent Christian leader. Then, as I was looking at him, his appearance changed. He was now wearing a Milwaukee jersey. Then, his head was transformed into a buck. A buck is a male deer, antelope, or goat. After seeing this transformation, God quickly began speaking clearly to me about goats. These spiritual goats… They have eyes but do not see They have ears but do not hear (Jer 5:21, Ez 12:2 Mark 8:18). They have been given over to a depraved mind (Rom 1:28). Yes, they are sometimes seeing visions and dreams, and they are possibly hearing words, but they are mostly seeing what they want to see and hearing what they want to hear. They think they are mighty lions in prayer and fasting. But they are really just goats, bucking and fussing. They are proud, boisterous, and their lungs are filled with violence. Like Peter when he became suddenly filled with Satan, and he bucked against Jesus’ destiny. They are haters of God’s true will, His perfect way…they buck against His “cross” plan and command. These goats are frictional, and they house murder in their hearts. They have virulent tendencies. They’re dirtied by wickedness. They are distracted with their perpetual craving of this world, and their unethical perversions. They are mired in ever-increasing hypocrisy. They have become too earthly—dominion—minded to be any kingdom-of crosses good. I heard God say, “I’m about to take the goats to court.” Remember, the goats are the opposite of sheep, and sheep are what Christians are called to be (Matthew 25). For clarity, I think the “courts” are both literal and figurative. I think many people that are being firmly separated into the goat community are going to also face many various legal issues as their crimes and sins are revealed and exposed. On the other hand, I think the “courts” will also be metaphorical, as in judgment is coming—they are being set aside for judgment. Jer 5:29a Shall I not punish them for these things? Post script: 1.this morning I had an inbox message, inviting me to an upcoming event to be hosted by the minister I saw in last night’s vision. 2. I did not know until tonight that the Republican convention is happening in Milwaukee. Politics is the primary entanglement and sin of idolatry that has led many believers into ignorantly (unaware) becoming goats.

Disclaimer This reflection is based on my experiences in leadership coaching, spiritual direction, and ministry, as well as on biblical principles of integrity and faith. While inspired by real situations, it is not intended to accuse, identify, or represent any specific individual or organization. The purpose is to encourage reflection on personal growth and organizational and ministry practices. Every church faces pivotal moments that shape its future. One significant moment is the transition between pastors. Whether due to retirement, health issues, or other reasons, the departure of a beloved pastor creates a critical gap. Without skilled guidance during this time, churches may struggle to maintain their mission and community. An interim pastor plays a crucial role in this transition, providing stability and direction. This post explores the importance of interim pastors, their benefits, the obstacles to appointing one, and the dangers of proceeding without their guidance. The Necessity of an Interim Pastor An interim pastor acts as a bridge during times of change. They are not just filling an empty role but helping a church reevaluate its mission and prepare for new leadership. This necessity is rooted in a deep understanding of the spiritual, social, and organizational needs of a congregation during such an impactful time. Churches without interim pastors run the risk of losing faithful members, decreasing attendance and community engagement. An interim pastor helps prevent these disruptions by ensuring that spiritual growth continues. The Benefits of Having an Interim Pastor 1. Stability in Times of Change Interim pastors provide essential stability during uncertain times. Many congregants feel anxious during pastoral transitions. An interim pastor offers reassurance, allowing the church to maintain operations and focus on its mission. This stability is vital in ensuring that worship services and community interactions remain consistent. 2. Guidance and Direction Interim pastors arrive with a wealth of experience. They can help congregations identify their priorities and align them with God’s vision. For instance, a church might experience revitalization simply by clarifying its mission with the help of an interim leader, paving the way for a smooth transition to new leadership. 3. Enhanced Ministry Opportunities During their tenure, interim pastors often encourage churches to explore new ministry opportunities. For example, they might introduce community outreach programs or small group ministries that can increase engagement. Some churches have reported a 30% increase in participation in ministries initiated during interim periods, showcasing the growth potential even in transitional times. 4. Preparation for the Future Interim pastors prepare congregations for the next permanent leader. They facilitate discussions on the qualities desired in new pastoral leadership, empowering the congregation. This proactive approach helps create a healthier environment for the incoming pastor, which can result in greater satisfaction and effectiveness in their role. The interior of a church filled with congregants during worship. Obstacles to Having an Interim Pastor Despite the benefits, churches may encounter challenges in appointing an interim pastor. 1. Financial Constraints Budget concerns often deter churches from hiring an interim pastor. However, investing in an interim leader can yield long-term benefits that outweigh initial costs. Churches should consider this role as a strategic investment that can lead to future growth and stability. 2. Lack of Awareness Some congregations may not fully recognize the value an interim pastor brings. A lack of awareness can result in resistance to hiring someone temporarily. Workshops or informational sessions about the role of interim pastors can help alleviate this misunderstanding. 3. Emotional Attachment to Previous Leaders Transitioning from a beloved pastor can evoke strong emotions. The feelings of loss can create hesitance in accepting a new leader. Churches may fear that a temporary leader will not resonate with the established culture. Open discussions about the transition could help ease these concerns. The Dangers of Not Having an Interim Pastor Neglecting to appoint an interim pastor leads to several potential dangers that can hinder a church's growth and health. 1. Leadership Vacuum Without an interim pastor, congregations may face a significant leadership void. This absence can create confusion and disorganization, leading to critical decisions being postponed or leaving the church open to misplaced leadership. When individuals step into roles they are not called to, they may unintentionally bring control rather than peace, causing disruption and harm instead of fostering spiritual health. This void often results in individuals unknowingly overstepping boundaries or hindering those who should be leading from stepping into their rightful roles. 2. Decline in Congregational Morale Congregants look for stability during transitions. Without an interim pastor, morale can plummet, causing dissatisfaction. A study found that congregations without interim leaders experienced a 25% decline in attendance during transitions, which highlights the importance of steady leadership. 3. Missed Opportunities for Growth The absence of an interim pastor means missed opportunities for addressing congregational needs and engaging the community. Without a guide to foster connections, churches can experience stagnation when they could be thriving during this time. 4. Risk of Conflict Leadership transitions can lead to conflict without a capable interim pastor to mediate. Misunderstandings may escalate, fracturing the community and impacting relationships within the church. This disruption can deter newcomers and diminish the overall health of the congregation. Navigating Transition Successfully Bringing an interim pastor on board is a strategic move that offers numerous benefits to a church. They provide stability, guidance, and the ability to prepare for future leadership while keeping the church vibrant. Although obstacles like budget constraints and emotional attachments may complicate the hiring of an interim pastor, the risks of moving forward without one are significant. For congregations, especially those that are culturally diverse, having leaders who understand and are invested in the community can significantly enhance the transition experience. By recognizing the value of interim pastors and addressing the challenges associated with hiring them, churches can flourish even during uncertain times. Effective interim leadership is key to sustaining church vitality and navigating toward a bright future. The serene exterior of a church building reflecting the tranquility of worship.

Disclaimer This reflection is based on my experiences in leadership coaching, spiritual direction, and ministry, as well as on biblical principles of integrity and faith. While inspired by real situations, it is not intended to accuse, identify, or represent any specific individual or organization. The purpose is to encourage reflection on personal growth and organizational and ministry practices. Recently I was doing some research on leadership for my YouTube Channel and discovered a concept I had not heard of in the leadership arena called the power grab. In the sensitive world of church leadership, the absence of a pastor can lead to significant challenges. One of the most concerning issues is the potential for a power grab, where individuals try to gain control inappropriately, often using manipulative methods. Recognizing the signs of a power grab early can help foster a healthy and supportive church environment during vulnerable times. What is a Power Grab? A power grab occurs when someone or a group tries to gain control over leadership, often at the expense of others. This situation is especially common in churches that find themselves without a guiding pastor. In 2020, a survey reported that 26% of churches experienced a power struggle during pastoral transitions. Understanding what a power grab looks like is vital. It helps churches stay focused on their mission rather than getting caught up in conflicts over power. A genuine church leader, as described in Matthew 20:25-28, serves the community rather than tries to manipulate it. Recognizing the tactics of power grabs prepares congregations to resist these threats. Tactics of a Power Grab Power grabs can show up in various negative behaviors. Here are some common strategies: Shutting Out Opposition A key indicator of a power grab is when certain individuals try to silence those who disagree with them. For example, a church leader might discredit a congregation member who raises concerns about a particular decision, making it easier to wield control without any accountability. Controlling Decision-Making Another tactic is making decisions behind closed doors, leaving little room for input. A church might find that only specific leaders are consulted, creating distrust. For instance, a budget decision could be made secretly, preventing the congregation from being involved in key financial matters. Exploiting Chaos Power seekers often seize on chaotic moments, like a leadership transition, to push their own agendas. A leader might try to quickly implement changes without proper discussion, taking advantage of members' heightened emotions and uncertainty. Intimidation & Manipulation Manipulative tactics may include using fear or guilt to control members. This can lead to a toxic environment, where individuals feel unsafe to express their thoughts or ideas. If a leader threatens to withdraw support from dissenting members, it fosters an environment of silence rather than healthy discussion. Is This Happening in Your Church? As a concerned member of your church community, assessing potential power grabs is crucial. Ask yourself these questions: Is one person making decisions without consulting others? Is wise counsel being ignored, or are differing opinions being dismissed? Are individuals being bullied or discredited for speaking up? Is there a culture of fear or secrecy around leadership changes? Are biblical principles being sidelined for personal agendas? If these questions raise alarms, it’s essential to examine the dynamics in your church leadership. Such an environment usually does not support genuine faith-led leadership but reveals underlying manipulative tactics. The Jezebel & Ahab Leadership Dynamic The story of King Ahab and Queen Jezebel in 1 Kings highlights how power grabs can unfold in leadership. Ahab, although the king, allowed Jezebel to exert control due to his passive approach. Jezebel silenced opposition and instilled fear to maintain her power. For instance, when Ahab wanted Naboth's vineyard, Jezebel plotted Naboth's death through false accusations to take over the land (1 Kings 21:1-16). This dynamic can appear in modern churches when leaders fail to assert their authority effectively. The influence of a dominating figure can overshadow the church's mission and create a toxic atmosphere where truth is manipulated to keep control. Protecting Your Church Community Understanding these dynamics is essential for maintaining a healthy church. The role of interim pastors during leadership gaps is crucial, as they provide necessary guidance and oversight. Interim pastors help ensure that transitions are orderly and in harmony with biblical principles. Encouraging open discussion and promoting transparency is critical. Foster participatory decision-making among church members to enhance accountability and collective awareness. When members recognize warning signs, they can act to uphold the church's integrity. In uncertain times, prayer can guide and strengthen the community. By praying together, church members can seek God's guidance in navigating potential power struggles and promote healthy leadership. Maintaining Integrity in Leadership Navigating church leadership during a pastoral absence can be challenging. However, being aware of the signs of power grabs helps protect the mission and integrity of the church community. By critically assessing decision-making processes, ensuring transparency, and fostering open communication, congregations can defend themselves against manipulation. Creating a culture grounded in biblical values and servant leadership is vital for thriving even amidst challenges. Together, members can ensure their church community is focused on God’s mission rather than falling into unhealthy power dynamics. Empty church pews waiting for a congregation.