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Ministry Question

As a young pastor in the Lutheran church, I'd like to ask my fellow pastors the following question: What would you recommend going (or avoiding) in your first year at a new church in order to build trust with your members? Thanks! #ministry

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Kikanza’s Answer

Don't change much. Listen. and then listen some more. Listen to learn the stories that are important to the people. Listen to hear who the "stars" are and what is said about them. Listen to find out why there are two hymnals in the church and why Ms. Leo weeps every time you sing out of one of them. Listen to understand why there are huge quilts hung in the sanctuary, overshadowing the cross and other items on the chancel. Learn who is not talking to whom, who is worried about a daughter who stopped attending church decades ago. If you listen to understand the people and their social context, you will learn how to reach their hearts. Good preaching and good administration are important and with a big listening heart, a new minister will be very successful.
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Doug’s Answer

Get to know your flock. There will be "unofficial" leaders you will want to "feel out." They can be important to your decisions...either helping or hindering. Don't try to make major changes without feeling out these members thoughts.
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