Collaboration. Listening. Getting around life’s brick walls. Understanding identity. Adapting to new places and situations. Each of these moments are part of the everyday work of ministry.
Recently, I sat down with three new pastors. When we gathered on zoom, we talked about pastoral imagination. It was a wonderful conversation about what they are learning. Additionally, we talked about how the Pastoral Imagination book and journal can support and inspire the work of ministry.
In addition to being new pastors, Elizabeth Nance-Coker, Carrie Jarrell Tuning and Michael Ramsey are also participants in the Helping Pastors Thrive Initiative. The initiative is funded by the Lilly Endowment and sponsored by the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship of North Carolina.
I am so delighted to know these pastor and to accompany them in their work. Additionally, the HPT “new pastors cohort” is a great example of mentoring from both peers and seasoned ministers. In order to thrive, ministers need exactly this kind of support. Thus, I’m excited for you to hear from these pastors. I hope you will enjoy overhearing our conversation.
Listening guide:
1:05 Rev. Dr. Elizabeth Nance-Coker
2:05 Rev. Dr. Carrie Jarrell Tuning
3:03 Rev. Dr. Michael Ramsey
4:25 Describing pastoral imagination.
6:50 More about the Learning Pastoral Imagination Project – a study of ministers begun in 2009.
8:00 Three Minute Ministry Mentor: supporting ministers.
8:40 Elizabeth shares thoughts about how she is reading the Pastoral Imagination book: “I feel seen.”
10:30 Story of Fr. Stephen, Episode 20 “Identity and Place.”
13:25 Michael talks about the gift of the book that supports formation rather than more information; and pastoring as an art.
15:35 The value and power of Collaboration in ministry;
See also Episode 4 “Collaboration.”
Lingering over the Pastoral Imagination Journal.
18:30 Carrie describes the practicality of the 50 topics and Self Reflection in the Journal.
See also Episode 19: “Brick Walls.”
24:20 Elizabeth asks about the LPI Study and learning over time.
See Episode 40: “Change over Time.”
27:35 Carrie asks What made you want to write the Pastoral Imagination book?
Changing theological education.
Launching Three Minute Ministry Mentor.
33:50 Michael asks What advice or direction would you offer a weary pastor?
Learn more about “Listening,” “Contemporary Prayer,” and also “Pandemic Pastoring.”
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Are you heading off to seminary this fall? Perhaps you are beginning a new ministry position? Is ordination on your horizon? Are you starting a new CPE residency? Perhaps you’re considering another change in your work? If so, we want to offer support for your next transitions. The Pastoral Imagination book and journal were written with you in mind.
Maybe you know a friend or family member who are facing one of these pivotal moments? If that is the case, I hope you will check out the print and digital offerings in the 3MMM Shop.
