Small Church Pastor Interviews

Small Church Pastor

Coaching, Consulting, and Resources for Pastors of Smaller Churches.

Meet Roger and Ann Gibson. This is Roger's 52nd
year in ministry and he currently works with Stadia.

Dave: You work for Stadia. Could you explain to my readers who they are and what is your focus in
this organization?

Roger: Stadia specializes in helping churches start healthy, successful new churches. The Stadia
team fosters a generation of high-quality support services for new churches. My role is to assess
people for this kind of ministry and then help with care and mentoring.

Dave: What do you look for in a church that tells you they are a healthy church?

Roger: I want to know if they are strong in reproduction - locally and elsewhere, in development -
disciples and leaders and, in service - both for the body and for the community.

Dave: How would you define success in a smaller church?

Roger: Regardless of size, the church can be involved at some level in the three things mentioned
above. If they are doing those things well, the success will be evident.

Dave: If you were starting out again, what would you do differently?

Roger: Ten Things I Would Do More as the Church Pastor
1. Develop and use a preaching “team” in preparation and delivery of messages
2. Honor “wins” of staff and members and celebrate them publicly and privately
3. Release administration to others; delegate and empower for ministry
4. Create and work with a “Vision Team,” using specially gifted people
5. Constantly present a vision to keep momentum going positively
6. Preach and teach doctrine with practical application for growth
7. Use people in their skill and passion areas, capitalizing on their spiritual gifts
8. Be liberal to staff with financial “perks” for honor, team building, growth
9. Provide and encourage ministry to the “poor” in the community
10. Take advantage of personal breaks for vision development and planning, family and personal
rest

Dave: If you had one piece of advice to give to my readers, whether they be new to the ministry or not,
what would it be?

Roger: Three things the Lord spoke to His leaders: be strong, have courage, be humble...and then
trust in the Lord’s timing.

Dave: If you had only one book to recommend, other than the Bible, what would it be and why?

Roger: Difficult, but maybe George Mueller of Bristol by Arthur T. Pierson because of the principles
that are taught and the model he provides for faithful service to the Lord.

Dave: Thanks Roger

Interview

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