The beginning of a new season in ministry is a unique moment in the life of a congregation. There is so much to learn and to do, so many tasks and responsibilities that are part of the congregation's life.  There are assumptions and expectations on both sides of this new relationship. There are challenges and opportunities, some that you had anticipated and others that will surprise you. Honestly, it's hard to know where to begin. Yet it's also a time that follows a lengthy period of prayer and discernment on both sides. Over many months, you've tested what it might feel like to share a life of ministry together, resulting in a call extended and accepted.   

Now you are here. God willing, there are many years of ministry ahead of you. Not everything that needs to be addressed can be addressed at once. What is most important in the this initial season life together?  What comes first?

The first task is always relational and organic. It takes time for one who has been selected as a spiritual leader to become the leader. There is no shortcut for the kind of relationship building that is the foundation of every healthy church. St. Paul, using an image from the natural world, writes of being grafted into the life of a community, as a seedling is grafted into a larger plant. You need time to get to know each other-as a congregation, you need to become accustomed to your new rector's voice in the pulpit, her or his way of leading. She or he needs to come to know and love you enough to determine how best to lead.

If only we could do nothing else in the first two years but get to know each other! But you are not a community on hiatus. Ministry is on-going: there are decisions to be made, priorities to set, budgets to manage. You need to be about that necessary work and yet also use the gift of this time for the second important set of tasks in this season: gentle, courageous ministry evaluation.