Couple Transitioning to Full-Time Ministry
A young couple, who previously were part of the intern program at the Coastlands, ask for Daniel’s counsel after previously discussing plans to pioneer a church—but recently were asked to support the existing church in pastoral positions.
(Original letter from Leader)
Hi Daniel!
How are you? It was a long and busy summer for me and [Wife], especially with our [Children’s] play ([Wife] was in charge) and our VBS with more than 500 kids! ([Wife] was also in charge.) We were kind of hoping that the team from the Coastlands could join us for VBS. Anyway, there’s always a next time! Actually, right after our play, I’ve started composing a long email for you to tell you about all our experiences during the play and the rehearsals, but somehow, never got to send it. (The experiences were an extreme mixture of the exciting and frustrating.)
I’ve already told my dad and my boss about the possibility of us planting a church this year. Both of them were very supportive. My dad already took it up with the council a couple of weeks ago, but before that, there were some movements in the church staff. Two of our pastors and their families are leaving the church. One of them is [Pastor], who is being led to another ministry, and the other is being assigned to [Church] in [Country].
In light of the vacancies, the council suggested and somewhat requested that I consider serving full time at [Church] instead of pioneering. (In case we accept this offer/request [Wife] will be serving part time as children’s ministries coordinator, I will be doing full time as coordinator for the natural church development program plus pulpit/preaching ministry. Also this assignment would start [Month]!
We’ve been seeking the Lord’s heart about this. And we also would like to welcome some counsel. I guess what I’d like to ask is not so much what we should do, but more on how we should look at this. What’s your perspective about this, Daniel?
Love,
[Couple]
(Daniel’s response)
Hi Guys,
Here is my quick thought…I’m just getting ready to travel to [Country]…
With [Pastor] leaving, I feel much better about you getting to do ministry at [Church] the way you want to do it! Would you say that all the pastors who “oppose” you (that’s too strong of a word, but you know what I mean) have left? It’s really a question of ministry philosophy (see attached papers). Can you lead as you are led by God to lead?
If the answer is yes—at least mostly—then GREAT! The assignment they have mapped out for you is perfect. I couldn’t have dreamed of a better “associate” role for you. And I love the idea of [Wife] getting paid and acknowledged for her work (another perfect fit).
All the hesitations I felt before—about you staying at [Church]—seem gone. Either option will work fine. But if you can stay there (in your heart), I think it is a nicer option for all concerned!!
How exciting,
Love,
Daniel
