From L. serving in Winston-Salem, NC
QUESTION:Leader Hasn't Left
I am serving a church as minister of music, and my predecessor is still actively involved in the church and music ministry. After this person resigned, they continued (with the personnel committee's permission) to lead the children's choir, a youth creative movement team, and a Southern Gospel vocal ensemble. I am fairly new here and have quickly learned that this person is still a very influential presence and a controlling personality. I love the church and work well with the pastor, but I am finding it very difficult to work with this person. This person is gifted and has a lot to offer, but if they refuse to be a team player and allow me to lead, should I ask them to step down from these positions? Any other suggestions?
RICK MUCHOW:
Influential and controlling can be turned into great assets to your ministry and team. If the person is being divisive, I would ask them to step down, but only after trying all of the following, and being a servant leader myself.
- Try to clearly define what this person’s area of leadership is.
- Ask that they stay within that area and assure them that you will give them freedom in that area.
- Pray.
- Be that person’s #1 fan.
- Be their servant.
- Be asking “How can I help you to succeed?”
Make sure that before you decide if this person is truly being divisive, that you are fulfilling the servant leadership model as best as you can.
