“There’s a level of tribal knowledge that we assume people have about being a minister.” Conference Pastor Andy Woodworth began the first session of the Ministerial Day, on November 22, 2024, explaining the Board of Leadership and Outreach (BLO) choice to devote the day to the final sessions of the Minister Credentialing Program. New ministers, he said and even people who’ve been around a while don’t necessarily know how EMC practically functions.

Many of the attendees were youth leaders or new to pastoral ministry but even experienced ministers like Abe Berg (Straffordville) found it valuable. “Presentations… were relevant and refreshing and served as a great reminder of the call to servant leadership.”

Andy reflected on his first pastorate and the desperation he felt then, adding that because of it, he got these seven things right.

1.        He met with mentors—he found people who knew more and then listened

2.        He networked with other local pastors

3.        He trusted local leaders, adding that local culture can be very strange and local guides are important

4.        He connected with Christian groups and events

5.        He subscribed to pastor resources and received training in this way

6.        He knew he didn’t know but could learn

7.        He kept his Ministers’ Manual close by

After explaining what the EMC ministerial is and does he added that the ministerial wants to get better at addressing important issues, being proactive rather than reactive.

EMC Executive Director Emery Plett and Moderator Abe Bergen, reviewed EMC mission, vision, values, and organizational structure explaining how EMC’s congregational governance differs from denominational structures.

BLO Chair Cameron McKenzie led the third session on “Everything you already know, but probably needs to be said again.” The heart of the ministry he said is love, care and emotional depth. Heart is developed through unceasing prayer, study—including elements of repetition, attentiveness, understanding, and contemplation—and Sabbath rest.

In the discussion that followed pastors wondered how to make time for sabbath rest, indicating a common struggle. One question from a congregant asked about accepting pastoral care after being hurt by a former pastor.

The final session by Director of Next Generation, Mo Friesen featured top ten things for youth ministry.

1.        Prioritize ministry for all generations—we need a vibrant church for healthy youth ministry

2.        Create multi-generational interactions—don’t silo into age groups.

3.        Make safety a high priority. There are many successes, but failure is loud

4.        Reverse the ratio—instead of one leader for every five students, consider how many people connect with each student.

5.        Provide an opportunity to serve with adults in appropriate ways.  

6.        Give jobs like photography to students to build competence and confidence.

7.        Teach the Bible in relationship—taking an interest in students.  

8.        Be culturally aware and informed—this is not the primary thing, but it is important. And be curious rather than afraid. www.axis.org is a good resource.

9.        Support parents – they need to know they are cared for.

10.  Don’t lose hope. God has given us everything we need. Share encouragements before you share complaints. The world has always been a mess.  

Comments from the floor praised churches that had supported and empowered young pastors.

Two questions were left open for further study: How do congregations and pastors have healthy conversations? And where is the on-ramp into a pastoral role when youth ministry is a long-term career choice?