Part 5 – Make a Good Start

Part 5 – Make a Good Start

One of the simple joys of my life is that I umpire Little League Baseball.  I mention this because in umpiring, as in being a church pastor, the first events that take place are critical and actually very similar, and I suspect they carry into many other areas of life.  Here are four key things …

Part 4 – Leave Well

Part 4 – Leave Well

Unless your next church will be your first church, going to a new church means, you will be leaving the church where you now serve.  This time of transition is critical to the health of the church and yet is often mishandled in the transition from one pastor to the next.  Here are some tips …

Part 2 – The Salary Package

Part 2 – The Salary Package

After careful prayer and deliberation, you have decided to accept the appointment.  Congratulations, you are on your way.  Now let’s think about what needs to happen to keep this process harmonious and positive.  The biggest hurdle is often the salary package. I believe firmly that your District Superintendent (DS) should handle your salary negotiations!  Provide …

Part 1 – The Phone Call

Part 1 – The Phone Call

The phone rings.  You look down at the screen on your mobile phone, and there is the name of your Superintendent — maybe even his/her smiling face from your contacts.  Your heart sinks – “What now?”  Then you remember, “Oh, no!  It’s appointment season.  The cabinet is meeting this week.”  While you hesitate, your finger …

Series – Your Next Church

Series – Your Next Church

If you are United Methodist you know what season it is – Yes, Lent, but more than that – appointment season.  There is nothing more stress inducing than going through the appointment process. But fear not because this series of articles will help you through this challenging time.