Chris Yaw Interviews Byron Wade: Out With Committees, In With Ministry Teams
Presbyterian pastor Byron Wade says one way he's energized his mainline congregation is to change the vocabulary that speaks of maintenance to that which speaks of mission.
Byron's Davie Street Presbyterian (USA) no longer has committees, but Ministry Teams - that take ownership and intentionality toward the work they've been called to do.
In this interview Byron explains that he's not just talking semantics here, but is partnering with a gifted congregation to help set the vision around service and outreach, knowing that by helping others he helps his flock.
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Synopsis
Byron Wade has found that people are not as willing to work for the furtherance of an institution as they are to help bring real, positive change to people's lives; hence Committee to Ministry Teams. Here are my notes from the interview:
No Longer Waiting
Byron remembers when churches used to simply wait for people to come to his church. Now he knows better, and has helped shape his flock into a people that goes out and positively affects the community.
Starting a Contemporary Service
Byron listened to his congregation talk about a desire to update its worship. So he introduced a one-off service that may soon become a once-a-month offering, featuring more modern music and a relaxed preaching style. Byron can't stress enough the importance of listening.
Develop Tough Skin
Noting an axiom he learned years ago, Byron says, 'Lots of what goes on in church bickering is not about you.' Byron says it's important to acknowledge underlying causes when it comes to complaining, and in this way don't let it bother you.
About Byron Wade
Byron Wade is the pastor of Davie Street Presbyterian Church (PCUSA) in Raleigh, NC. A native of Los Angeles, CA, he has served on all councils of the denomination and has a passion to see the church change and grow in today's changing society.
Books Byron Recommends
Twelve Dynamic Shifts for Transforming Your Church
The Missional Leader: Equipping Your Church to Reach a Changing World (Jossey-Bass Leadership Network Series)
Developing the Leader Within You
