It has been a learning experience for me acquiring the wide variety of skills needed for pastoral ministry, and I haven't graduated yet. Starting out I dreamed of Bible study, prayer, preaching and revivals. But the years have taught me that churches are more than worship centers. They are financial institutions requiring adminstration; buildings requiring upkeep; and volunteer organizations requiring leadership, management and conflict resolutions.
When I think of my limited abilities, I can feel overwhelmed by it all. Fortunately, I don't have to be an expert in everything; but I do have to try to cover the bases. A few of my growth areas have been learning to keep within budget on projects, making decisions and steering a course, and being sensitive to people in grief.
Dr. Laniak's book has reminded me that ministry includes many different tasks, and that by God's grace we can learn them all.
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