What do you do if you want to become a pastor of a church? What steps should you take? I have been a pastor for almost twenty-five years and I am willing to share from my experience.
- Make sure that you are called to be a pastor. I don’t want to make too much out of the clergy-lay distinction. But I do want to say that there are some jobs that you can just get the training and show up for work and everything is fine. Pastoring is not the only career that requires a calling but it is one. Some people don’t realize that they are not called until they start the process.
- Start doing ministry. Don’t wait for a title or a degree, start doing something in your local church. It may be helping with the youth group, participating in the worship team or leading a Bible study. Get your feet wet now and don’t focus on doubts about that activity being your final calling.
- Work on your spiritual life. Pastoring comes with all sorts of temptations and challenges. Getting strong spiritually can’t wait until you are in the midst of the struggles.
- Talk to your pastor and other leaders in your church. Not to demand a position, but to get their feedback as to where they see your ministry gifts.
- Find out what the educational requirements are for your denomination or tradition. Make sure that your chosen Bible college or seminary fits with their expectations.
- Meet regularly with other pastors and Christian leaders. Take them out to lunch and listen to their stories.
- Determine your denomination or traditions’s expectations for ordination or accreditation.
- Look for the church that God is calling you. Not the one that is the most impressive. It is not about going to the ideal congregation but being in the place God wants you.
- Don’t get a big head the first time someone calls you “pastor.”
- Plan to finish well. Set yourself up for success and be aware of your weaknesses right at the beginning.
What else would you add to the list?
