Pastors Message – November/December, 2018

Dear Friends,

I recently attended a memorial service for a man who was eulogized as having had great skill as a coach in both basketball and life.

I listened intently hoping to glean what I could from the words his loving brother spoke, for just recently it had dawned on me that in this phase of my time here as interim pastor, my role should be one of coach rather than “player.” But then it came to me that all pastors should be coaches and that indeed at times even the members of the congregation are called upon to be coaches. So in this letter I would like to say a few words about coaching in our community of faith, this church

At its core, coaching is about relationships. It is about connecting people to their highest aspirations, potential, and passions. Coaching is a means by which we can help people plug in to their dreams, calling, and design, and help them discover the actions that will move them forward.

A church is a place where these connections can be made. Ask people for their definition of church, and responses will be varied, ranging from the Body of Christ to the building with the steeple. But actually we can simply look to Matt. 9: 9-13 for Jesus’ own definition which can be paraphrased as imperfect people who know they needed a Savior, working together to build relationships, help those in need, and to glorify God by striving to be like Christ and share His love with others.

Churches may not be businesses or basketball teams, but they have a purpose for their existence and a responsibility to their community, in deed to the world, and they have a need to succeed. I do believe that adding coaching to the skill set will be of benefit to all as we transition to a culture of coaching culture.

Bill Copper the author of Faith Coaching writes that coaching is a mindset – a fundamental belief in the worth, capabilities and motivation of others. Coaches believe in other people and their value which includes their inherent set of talents passion and potential.

In a church, coaching is interacting with people as Christ did with his disciples as he modeled being patient, kind, aware, awake, inclusive, supportive, encouraging, and empowering. It includes asking questions, really listening, action planning and giving affirmation.

What would this church be like if all were intentional about their gifts and how they might be used for the betterment of this blessed community?

I will have printouts in the office for anyone interested in learning more about coaching. Our goal may be heaven on earth, but the joy can also be in the journey.

“Set your compass in a chosen direction and then focus your attention and efforts completely on the journey of preparation. A successful journey is where your real accomplishment lies.” – Coach John Wooden

Blessings,
Pastor Beth