Jesse Reimers

As pastors of small churches, we can easily focus only on the strategic ministry plan, the competency of our team, and the ideas we implement. However, there's one critical factor that can make or break the success of our church: CULTURE! Culture is the invisible force that shapes the environment and experience of our church, and it's often an accident. But it doesn't have to be. In this weeks post, we'll explore the path to building a winning culture that creates an irresistible workplace and a thriving ministry. Why Culture Matters: 1. Shapes the Environment: Culture sets the tone for the environment of your church. It determines how people feel when they walk through the doors, how they interact with each other, and how they experience the ministry. 2. Influences Behavior: Culture influences the behavior of your team and congregation. It can either empower and motivate them or hinder their growth and effectiveness. 3. Determines Success: Ultimately, culture determ...

We are just over a month into this new year, it's a perfect time for pastors of small churches to take stock and consider adjustments to enhance their leadership and ministry. Sometimes, it's not just about doing more but also about stopping certain habits that might hinder growth. This week we'll explore ten things that pastors of small churches might want to consider stopping this year for a renewed focus and effectiveness. 1. Neglecting Self-Care: (Including your Mental Health) Stop neglecting self-care. Pastors often give so much to others that they forget to replenish their own wells. This year, prioritize rest, exercise, and moments of personal rejuvenation. Seek professional help or counseling if needed, and encourage your congregation to prioritize mental health. This does not make you a failure, weak or unspiritual Scripture: * "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." - Matthew 11:28 2. Trying to Please Everyone: Stop tr...

Leading a small church comes with its unique set of challenges, and one that many pastors grapple with is the ebb and flow of volunteer engagement. The reality of volunteer attrition can be disheartening, but fear not, for in every challenge lies an opportunity for growth. In this weeks post, we will acknowledge the challenges small churches face in volunteer retention and explore key strategies to build a team that stands the test of time. Keys to Effective Volunteer Retention: 1. Cultivate a Sense of Community: Foster a strong sense of community within your church. Volunteers are more likely to stay committed when they feel a genuine connection with other members and a sense of belonging to a larger purpose. Scripture: * "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching." - Hebrews 10:24-25 2. Recognize...

Welcome to the final installment of our series on Building Great Teams in Small Churches . Today, we delve into a crucial aspect—Empowering and Delegating. As a pastor leading a small congregation, your ability to empower your team and delegate responsibilities is pivotal for the growth and sustainability of your ministry. Join us as we explore the why, the how, and the transformative impact of empowering and delegating within the unique context of a small church. Why Empower and Delegate in a Small Church Setting? 1. Multiplication of Impact: Empowering and delegating tasks allow for a multiplication of impact. In a small church, where resources might be limited, distributing responsibilities enables your team to accomplish more collectively. Scripture: * "And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ." - Ephesians 4:11-12 2. Developing Leaders: Empowering ...