3 Elements of a Healthy Pastoral Team

1. Understanding and striving for a common Godly vision.
The ultimate Lordship of the team lies with God. A vision – possibly as broad as ‘The Great Commission’ (Matt 29:19-20) or something specific regarding the local ministry – should be the defining point for which the team works. This vision is founded on prayer and communion with God as a team.

2. Each member is clear on their responsibilities and can work individually and together – within their role – to see the vision met
A clear pastoral team leader may be assigned, then there is a particular hierarchy of authority for the responsibilities of the team.  However, each member does have a level of authority to fulfil their individual responsibilities. Sometimes this will mean working on their own, or with their own team, as well as working with other members of the pastoral team at other times.

3. Members of the team are helping each other grow, and growing themselves in return.
Proverbs 27:17 “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” The team recognises that as individuals they are responsible for helping each other grow. This facilitates encouragement and allows for constructive criticism. It also includes team study and prayer, knowing that this is the foundation for the practical output of the team.