That’s a statement and question I hear fairly often. People will contact me and tell me their pastor has; retired, died, was fired, or just burned out.
I hear, “Can you tell us where we can find a new pastor?” I then tell them that’s going to be a tough search. So many challenges come into play. Things like;
Do you provide a living salary?
Do you provide health insurance?
With so many Bible Colleges closing there went a great resource.
Most older pastors are paying the cost of living in a parsonage. There’s no equity to fall back on by living in a parsonage. So do you offer a housing allowance?
What about things like a retirement plan, mileage, vacation, ongoing education?
Most of these items are what a Greeter at Wal-Mart gets on their hire!
So back to that question. “Can you help us find a new pastor?”
The answer. Yes, The Kingdom Partnership has an option. It’s called Bridge Ministry Training. The ‘Partnership’ along with the Christian Church Leadership Network with their Executive Director, Micah Odor, can help a congregation fill their pulpit.
Here’s how.
A Bridge Pastor is a trained believer of a congregation who on his own time completes an 8-week training course to fill the pulpit. Nearly all Bridge Pastors are co-vocational. They already have a job which supports their families.
His calling is to “bridge the gap” between pastors so the church remains healthy, unified, and focused on Christ.
Why A Church Needs a Bridge Pastor.
A pastoral transition is one of the most significant seasons in the life of a church. A Bridge Pastor provides leadership, care, and clarity to help a congregation move through this time with unity and confidence.
In Bridge Ministry Training this believer will learn to preach a sermon, write a sermon, baptize a new believer, lead a meeting, perform a funeral, and make hospital calls. He will also learn how to lead a Bible study.
Here are Some Key Reasons a Congregation needs a Bridge Pastor.
- Stability and Continuity – A Bridge Pastor keeps worship and pastoral care running smoothly so the church remains strong.
- Consistent Biblical Teaching – He provides steady, Christ-centered preaching and teaching that keeps the congregation grounded in God’s Word.
- Compassionate Pastoral Care – Transitions can often stir uncertainty or grief. A Bridge Pastor offers prayer and support, so members feel cared for and connected.
- Support for Church Leadership – Elders and deacons often carry extra weight while a pulpit is empty. A Bridge Pastor helps to share the load and encourage the leadership.
- Fostering Unity and Peace – A Bridge Pastor helps maintain communication, trust, and unity – preventing division and guiding the congregation through grace.
A Vision for the Future
A congregation has the great opportunity to have one of their own develop into a Bridge Pastor. Developing a Bridge Pastor from within reflects a biblical pattern of raising leaders from the congregation. It strengthens the church, equips future generations, and ensures that pastoral transitions are handled with wisdom, stability, and spiritual maturity.
So…can I help you find a pastor to fill your congregation’s pulpit?
You bet we can. Thanks to the Christian Leadership Network the cost for the 8-week training, an ongoing mentor, and materials is only $175.00
We encourage congregations to invest in a student. A small cost to see a man of God in the pulpit.
Do you need further information? Like me to address your leadership? If so call me, Richard Creek at: 402.297.6876
