Tag: church

7 Organizational Pitfalls That Keep Churches Stuck

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A veteran airline pilot once told me, “Even the most advanced aircraft won’t go anywhere without regular course corrections.” The same is true of churches. While rooted in timeless truth, churches must constantly assess whether they’re still aligned with their mission or drifting off course.

Too often, congregations settle into familiar rhythms, mistaking comfort for health and routine for faithfulness. Meanwhile, the world outside their walls changes rapidly.

Churches are meant to be living, breathing reflections of the Kingdom of God—places where faith deepens, lives are changed, and the gospel is shared with enthusiasm and positivity. Yet even vibrant churches can get stuck.

Sometimes it’s slow and subtle. Other times, it’s an abrupt leadership conflict, a cultural shift, or simply a loss of momentum. The good news is that getting stuck isn’t the end of the story. In fact, it may be the beginning of renewal if we’re willing to reflect, reimagine, and respond.

Here are seven organizational pitfalls that can quietly derail even the most faithful of congregations—and what to do about them:

1. Prioritizing tradition over mission.

In 1967, the Swiss watch industry controlled over 80% of the global market. But when electronic watches were introduced (most notably by Seiko), the Swiss dismissed them as a passing fad. Within a decade, they had lost their dominance to competitors who embraced innovation.

The church can fall into the same trap when it values tradition over mission. When beloved customs become untouchable, they may obscure rather than illuminate the Good News.

Respect tradition, but regularly ask: “Does this still serve our mission, or just our memories?”

2. Lack of clear decision-making structures.

Churches often run on trust and familiarity—until a crisis hits. Without defined leadership roles and transparent processes, confusion and paralysis set in. Decision-making by consensus sounds inclusive, but in practice it can result in chronic indecision and burnout.

Clarify roles and lines of accountability. Empower leaders to lead and communicate decisions with transparency and grace. Structure doesn’t stifle Spirit. Rather, it provides space and channels through which the Spirit can move.

3. Avoiding conflict instead of addressing it.

A pastor once said, “In some churches, the goal is not peace—it’s the appearance of peace.” Many congregations avoid conflict to preserve harmony, only to find resentment simmering below the surface.

Thomas Crum cautions, “Conflict avoided is conflict multiplied.”

Encourage a culture where tough conversations happen in love. Teach that healthy conflict—done with grace and truth—is not division but discipleship.

4. Failing to adapt to changing realities.

Imagine a church that prints paper maps of their campus to hand out to first-time visitors, only to discover that no one under 40 uses paper maps anymore. They use electronic navigation through their smart device. Whether it’s communication, worship style, or outreach, churches often cling to outdated methods while the needs around them shift dramatically.

Learn to be faithful and flexible. Stay rooted in Christ, but flexible in your strategies. Evaluate regularly. Innovate prayerfully. Be ready to pivot when the moment calls for it.

5. Neglecting leadership development.

It’s been said that Moses may have led the Israelites out of Egypt, but Jethro’s advice (Exodus 18) kept him from burning out. Churches that rely on a few overextended leaders while neglecting to raise up others risk long-term dysfunction. Churches are wise to nurture and cultivate the young leaders who will become the next Joshua, the next Phoebe, the next Barnabas, or the next Timothy.

Identify and invest in emerging leaders. Offer mentoring, training, and real responsibility. A healthy church plans for the next generation before it’s desperate for one.

6. Measuring the wrong things.

Success in the church is not just about attendance and offerings. It’s about lives transformed, relationships deepened, and love lived out in the community.

William Bruce Cameron reminds us, “Not everything that counts can be counted.”

Don’t let the numbers define the narrative. Reorient your scorecard to emphasize missional engagement, spiritual formation, community influence, and kingdom impact

7. Ineffective internal and external communication.

Even vibrant churches can stall when communication breaks down. Internally, assumptions breed confusion. Externally, outdated websites, unclear signage, or inconsistent messaging can send mixed signals.

Good communication is ministry. Prioritize clarity in announcements, press releases, digital presence, and community relationships. Say what matters and say it well.

Churches are not immune to organizational drift. And while the Spirit of God moves in mysterious ways, the systems we build can either support or suppress that movement. By recognizing and addressing these common pitfalls, we free the church to do what it was always meant to do: live out the Gospel boldly, joyfully, and effectively.

Because when a church gets unstuck, the congregation gains traction and begins to move forward, outward, and upward.

(Barry Howard is a retired pastor who now serves as a leadership coach and consultant with the Center for Healthy Churches. He and his wife reside on Cove Lake in northeast Alabama.)

Walter Brueggemann Challenged My Assumptions and Deepened My Faith: Reflections from a Former Student

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On June 5, 2025, the world lost one of its most provocative and prophetic theological voices. Walter Brueggemann, Old Testament scholar, preacher, teacher, and esteemed theologian, passed away at the age of 92. His death leaves a significant void in the landscape of biblical scholarship and the life of the Church, but his influence will resonate for generations to come.

My own journey with Brueggemann began in a seminary classroom—not at Columbia Seminary, but at the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary in a course on Preaching from the Psalms taught by Dr. Harold Bryson. One of the textbooks for the course was Israel’s Praise, Brueggemann’s exposition on the theological weight of worship. That course was the first of many times Walter would challenge my assumptions, stir my imagination, and deepen my faith.

A few years later in 1995, I ventured outside of the Baptist world and enrolled in the Doctor of Ministry program at Columbia Theological Seminary for one reason: I wanted to study with Brueggemann. I completed the program in 1998. Several other Baptist minister friends also pursued their postgraduate work at Columbia as well, including John Pierce, Elizabeth Thompson, Greg DeLoach, Ron Wilson, Courtney Krueger, and Don Gordon. Each of us was drawn to this doctoral program by the gravitational pull of Walter’s prophetic intellect.

My first class with Brueggemann was listed on the course description “Old Dangerous Texts for New Dangerous Times.” His lecture notes from this course became the foundation for his book, “Theology of the Old Testament: Testimony, Dispute, Advocacy.”

Walter had a warm and humorous demeanor outside the classroom. Occasionally after class, my friend Ron Wilson and I, who Brueggemann fondly referred to as his little Baptist friends, would go to a local pub, grab a bite, and watch Braves baseball while unpacking the theological freight of the day’s lectures. Walter could be spotted at a baseball game now and then, and later would share stories and analogies that were conceived at the ballpark.

Years after my graduation, I invited Walter to lead a pastor’s workshop at First Baptist Church of Pensacola, where I was serving at the time. He was gracious and kind, not only in person but in follow-up. After the event, he sent me a brief yet meaningful note: “Thanks for the invitation. It was great to be in your shop.”

When I published my first book—a collection of call stories from a rich variety of pastors—Walter emailed me an endorsement, specifically emphasizing, “The recovery of a notion of call is urgent among us and your book should help that recovery along.” His words gave affirmation to my work and underscored his constant encouragement of emerging voices in ministry.

Walter had a great appreciation for our Baptist heritage. On one occasion in class, he remarked, “It’s good to have the Baptists here with us. None of us would be here if it were not for the Baptists. They were the freedom fighters who contended for religious freedom for all faith groups because they believed ‘if one of us loses our religious freedom, we all lose our religious freedom.’”

Even into his nineties, Walter remained intellectually vibrant, curious, and connected. In our last correspondence on his 91st birthday in 2024, he responded:  “Dear Barry: I am glad to hear from you and thanks for your kind words. I hope all is well for you. It’s good work to be a bridge builder. I just turned 91 and am hanging in and taking stock. With much appreciation, Walter.”

Though deeply academic, his writing was marked by poetic rhythm and prophetic urgency. His sermons and lectures could unsettle the comfortable and comfort the unsettled, sometimes in the same sentence.

Walter loved the scriptures and encouraged his students to “live in the tension of the text.” When addressing various questions about biblical criticism or historicity, he would often quip, “The text is what we have. Deal with it!” Whether he was teaching at Columbia Theological Seminary or speaking to a room full of pastors and leaders, Brueggemann courageously addressed the juxtaposition of scripture and culture head-on.

While I’m grateful for all of Walter’s writing—from his groundbreaking work on the prophets and Psalms to his cultural critique and homiletical insights—I’m especially thankful for his prayers. In Awed to Heaven, Rooted in Earth and Prayers of a Privileged People, his words become devotional guideposts, grounding us in faith while drawing us into action. One line from his prayer, “No More Sinking Sand,” seems especially fitting as we honor his life and witness:

          God of heavens, Lord of earth,
          hear our resolve, heal our unresolve,
          that we may finish in sure trust and in glad obedience.
          We already know what to do by our careful pondering of you. Amen.

Walter Brueggemann completed his journey in “sure trust” and “glad obedience.” Now it is up to us—those who studied with him, read him, or were influenced by his prophetic voice—to keep pondering, to continue proclaiming, and to work toward the kind of world Brueggemann’s theology dared us to imagine.

(Barry Howard is a retired pastor who now serves as a leadership coach and consultant with the Center for Healthy Churches. He and his wife live on Cove Lake in northeast Alabama.)

10 Ways to Care for the Emotional Health of a Congregation During a Pastor Transition

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A pastoral transition is one of the most impactful seasons in the life of a church. Whether a pastor retires, resigns, or is called to another ministry, the transition can stir a wide range of emotions—grief, uncertainty, anxiety, excitement, and even division. How church leadership manages this process plays a crucial role in the emotional and spiritual health of the congregation for years to come.

To lead well during this critical time, it’s essential to proactively support the congregation’s emotional needs. Below are ten proven strategies for nurturing a healthy church environment during a pastoral transition.

1. Acknowledge the emotions in the room. Change—even expected change—can feel unsettling. Some church members may feel abandoned, while others may look forward to a new chapter. Create safe spaces for open, honest conversations where members can express their feelings. Validating these emotions helps prevent division and encourages unity.

2. Communicate clearly and consistently. During a pastoral change, transparent communication is vital. Keep the congregation informed about the transition timeline, the pastoral search process, and interim leadership. Regular updates help reduce anxiety and foster trust among members.

3. Honor the departing pastor. If the transition is amicable, take time to celebrate the pastor’s service. Host a farewell service, share personal stories of appreciation, and pray over their next journey. A thoughtful send-off brings closure and lays the groundwork for a smoother transition.

4. Provide strong pastoral care. Pastoral transitions can leave some members feeling spiritually adrift. Church leaders—such as deacons, elders, ministry staff, and interim pastors—should be intentional about providing emotional and spiritual support through encouragement, prayer, and counseling.

5. Reinforce the church’s mission and vision. A church’s identity is rooted in Christ, not a single pastor. Remind the congregation that the church’s mission remains unchanged. Keeping ministries aligned with the church’s vision helps maintain focus and stability during change.

6. Maintain a consistent schedule. Avoid making major changes to worship services or programs during the transition. Familiar rhythms provide stability and comfort. Once a new pastor is in place, there will be time for evaluating and adapting structures and schedules as needed.

7. Promote healing and unity. If the transition follows a difficult season—such as internal conflict or leadership failure—intentional healing is essential. Offer opportunities for reconciliation, reflection, and spiritual renewal. A church that takes time to heal will be more receptive to new leadership.

8. Cultivate a spirit of hope and expectation. Encourage members to view this transition not as a crisis, but as a divine opportunity. A hopeful attitude among leadership will positively influence the congregation. As Romans 8:28 reminds us, “God works in all things to bring about good.”

9. Create opportunities for fellowship and relationship-building. Plan social events, meals, and team-building activities to strengthen relationships during the interim. Laughter, shared meals, and meaningful connection help maintain community and morale.

10. Pray the prayer of “holy indifference.” During the pastoral search, invite the congregation to pray as Jesus did in Matthew 26:39: “Not my will, but your will be done.” A church that earnestly seeks God’s guidance will be spiritually prepared to embrace its next chapter with confidence and joy.

Moving Forward with Faith

A pastor’s departure marks the end of one chapter but also the beginning of another. How a church navigates this transition will shape its emotional and spiritual health for years to come. By prioritizing clear communication, pastoral care, unity, and prayer, a congregation can move forward with faith, trusting that God will guide them as they write the next chapter in their church’s story.

(Barry Howard is a retired pastor and leadership coach with the Center for Healthy Churches, helping congregations and leaders navigate transitions with clarity and care.)

Servant Leadership: 10 Traits Pastors and Others Can Glean from Jimmy Carter

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Across the course of his life, Jimmy Carter exemplified servant leadership. The 39th President of the United States is celebrated even more for his post-presidential humanitarian work than his time in office. As a devout Christian, Sunday school teacher, and global advocate for peace and justice, Carter’s life was all about serving God by serving others.

Carter often said, “I have one life and one chance to make it count for something… My faith demands that I do whatever I can, wherever I am, whenever I can, for as long as I can with whatever I have to try to make a difference.”

His example offers a wealth of lessons for pastors, whose roles also demand faith, resilience, and a commitment to serving others. Here are 10 leadership traits pastors can glean from Jimmy Carter to enhance their ministry and reflect Christ’s love more fully:

1. Lead and serve from the wellspring of a rooted and grounded faith. Carter’s faith was the bedrock of his leadership, shaping his decisions and actions throughout his life. Carter claimed, “For me, faith is not just a noun, but also a verb.” Whether navigating the complexities of the presidency or building houses with Habitat for Humanity, Carter approached every role with a Christ-centered perspective. For pastors, staying rooted in faith is critical to leading authentically, purposefully, and with spiritual integrity.

2. Maintain a regular devotional practice. Despite a demanding schedule, Carter consistently carved out time for prayer, Bible study, and quiet reflection. This discipline provided him with resilience and clarity during challenging times. Pastors, too, must prioritize their spiritual health, remembering that effective ministry flows from a strong and active relationship with God.

3. Cultivate an attitude of humility. Carter referred to himself as a “citizen servant,” embracing leadership as an opportunity to serve others rather than seeking personal glory. For pastors, humility means leading with a heart focused on God’s glory and the well-being of others, rather than seeking personal accolades or recognition.

4. Become comfortable in your own skin. Carter was remarkably genuine. Although he was known all over the world, he was neither prideful nor pretentious. He embraced his Southern roots, Christian values, and even his imperfections, allowing his authenticity to shine through. Similarly, pastors lead most effectively when they are genuine and transparent, which enables them to better connect with others.

5. Be a bridgebuilder and peacemaker. Carter’s peacemaking legacy, epitomized by the Camp David Accords, demonstrated his ability to bring opposing sides together. Especially in this era of extreme divisiveness, pastors are called to build bridges within their congregations and communities, fostering unity and reconciliation.

6. Make decisions based on conviction, not popularity. Carter’s moral compass guided him to make decisions based on conviction rather than public opinion, even when those choices were unpopular. Pastors, too, must prioritize God’s calling and biblical teaching over human approval, standing firm in their convictions despite external pressures.

7. Read widely and regularly. Carter’s love of reading broadened his knowledge and deepened his understanding of history, culture, and faith. Pastors can benefit greatly from cultivating a habit of reading, which not only enriches their sermons but also equips them to address a wide range of issues with wisdom and insight.

8. Find a hobby that revitalizes you. Carter found joy and balance in woodworking, a creative outlet that recharged him. He also enjoyed playing tennis and built a tennis court in the backyard of his home in Plains. Pastors, who often face high demands and emotional strain, need hobbies, pastimes, or recreational outlets that refresh their minds and spirits. These pursuits can help prevent burnout and keep them energized for ministry.

9. Learn names. Carter’s remarkable ability to remember people’s names left a lasting impression on those he met. Carter insisted, “You only have to have two loves in your life: for God, and for the person in front of you at any particular time.” For pastors, the simple act of learning names is a powerful gesture that communicates care and value, allowing a pastor to build deeper connections with members of their congregation.

10. Address critical issues head-on. Carter was proactive in addressing the priority concerns. His lifelong commitment to human rights and poverty alleviation reflected his understanding of the gospel’s call to action. Pastors are uniquely positioned to lead their congregations in tackling issues like injustice, inequality, and poverty, demonstrating Christ’s love in practical, transformative ways.

Jimmy Carter’s life serves as a compelling example of servant leadership rooted in faith, humility, and a deep sense of purpose. His servant leadership style resonated with pastoral overtones. He proposed, “Let us learn together and laugh together and work together and pray together, confident that in the end, we will triumph together in the right.”  

Carter’s leadership reminds us that true greatness lies not in status or power, but in service. His example inspires pastors to lead with grace, courage, and unwavering faith as they navigate the sacred calling of shepherding God’s people.

(Barry Howard is a retired pastor who serves as a leadership coach and columnist with the Center for Healthy Churches.)

Remembering Bill Self: “The Church Is Worth the Effort”

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There are some moments and memories that we never forget. 

One such remembrance is when I first met Dr. Bill Self in 1981 at a banquet on the campus of Samford University. 

I was energized by Bill’s after-dinner speech. He quickly became one of my favorite preachers, not just because he was a captivating and motivating speaker, but because he had a contagious love for the local church. 

As the years unfolded, Bill became not only my colleague, but a friend and a strategic encourager.

We were blessed to have Bill and Carolyn spend a weekend with us in Pensacola in May 2015. For many years, Bill had been a close friend with our iconic pastor emeritus, Jim Pleitz. And Bill had served as the guest “evangelist” for a series of memorable revival services at First Baptist Pensacola during the 1970’s. So, Bill’s visit to Pensacola to be our guest for Heritage Day was filled with visits, stories, and reunions.

On Saturday evening, Amanda and I took Bill and Carolyn to Peg Leg Pete’s, our favorite seafood restaurant on the beach. We laughed and reminisced, but mostly we talked about the future of the local church. And we discussed the many ways that the church is in a season of challenging transition.

Whereas some pundits are prepared to offer a eulogy over the local church, Bill believed that if we seize the opportunity to dialogue poetically and prophetically with our culture, rather than launching hostile verbal missiles at our culture, this could be the church’s finest hour.

From among his many memorable sermons, such as “King for a Day,” “Swimming to the Deep End of the Pool,” and “What Do You Want with Me, Jesus?,” I am glad that Bill chose to preach the sermon, “The Church Is Worth the Effort” for our congregation, a message that continues to be timely and relevant.

Little did we know that our visit with Bill in Pensacola would be our last visit with him this side of heaven. Bill died on January 9, 2016 from complications with ALS.

So, in memory of Bill, each year around this time I give thanks for Bill’s impact on my life and ministry, and I review my notes from his last sermon in Pensacola, a sermon that every pastor and church member needs to internalize as we remind ourselves that the most influential days of the local church can be ahead of us and not behind us:

“I still love the church. I love the church universal, as well as the church local (red brick, white-columned with deacons smoking in the parking lot). With all of its dysfunction and flesh marks, with all of its confusion and humanity, it is still the best thing God has going for Him in this world. We do have a treasure in earthen vessels.

The church is a solid oak tree, not a fragile tea cup. It has withstood Roman Imperialism, Jewish legalism, pagan optimism, medieval institutionalism, the excesses of the reformers, wars and rumors of wars, a youth quake, modern skepticism, southern provincialism, resurgent fundamentalism, and heresies in each generation that seem never to die. It can withstand anything our generation can throw at it.

It has been victimized by unprepared and selfish clergy, tone-deaf musicians, manipulative members, argumentative deacons, demanding denominations, unloving reformers, and greedy politicians. Still it continues to provide love, affirmation and community to the fallen in the face of alienation.

The church is worth the effort!”

And it still is today.