Resource Center for Ministry:
Pastoral Leadership Seminar
The Pastoral Leadership Seminar brings together clergy once a month for two and one-half hours. Pastors from different denominations meet for learning and support in a safe environment where confidentiality is maintained.
The purpose of these meetings is both to help pastors understand a “systems” perspective of their leadership and invite conversation about their work in ways that contribute new insight and support for ministry. We use Ron Richardson’s book, “Creating a Healthier Church”, as a primary resource in understanding basic systems concepts and applying it to our ministries. The conversations are given focus through “case” presentations by the seminar members. Pastors focus on their functioning as a leader in a congregational situation and receive peer consultation. Facing the ChallengesClergy of all faith groups face increasing pressures related to their work. These challenges can drain one's energy, dampen vocational zeal, and give rise to loneliness and isolation. They can also be a stimulus to growth for those who seek renewal in a learning environment The Pastoral Leadership Seminar provides an opportunity for consultation for tasks and situations which are stressful. "The purpose, the mission, the objectives of the minister is the person. The rest of it...is strictly the side show." For more information, contact: Dr. Mark Houglum (bio Information) |
Pastoral Leadership Seminar:Meets the 4th Wednesday of each month Next seminar scheduled to begin Januay 24, 2007 Call Dr. Mark Houglum @ (206) 957-4703 or e-mail mhoughlum@samaritanps.org for more information Seminar Leader:Mark D. Houglum, Ph.D. is a pastoral counselor and licensed marriage and family therapist on the staff at Samaritan. He is Coordinator of the Resources Center for Ministry. Previously, Mark served for nineteen years as a pastor to congregations in Washington and Alaska. He consults with pastors regarding ministry issues and works with congregations experiencing conflict.
Participant Comments:"Opening meditations were super! Book discussion focused our thinking. Case studies kept us grounded, honest and real." "I am liking case studies better as a result of this experience. They were probably the highlight of the time together." "I really enjoyed the book and our discussion of the text. I'll use this again." "The book is a gem." "I found the book helpful and thought provoking." "I felt safe with the leaders." "You brought grace, patience, focus and directness to our time and interactions: great skill and great character." |