Church leadership is important. Weak leadership in any context leads to weak organisations, while good leadership enables, envisions and releases organisational potential. The strength of church denominations and local church congregations is very much affected by the strength of the leadership. It is difficult to change the church’s attitudes to such issues as HIV and AIDS and gender unless the leaders themselves are committed to such change. Local church leaders are often seen as leaders in the community, and therefore have great potential to initiate change.
This section explores ways in which church leaders can be envisioned and equipped for the task of leading their congregations and denominations in integral mission. It explores different approaches for different levels of church leader. Organisations and denominations with a national and international focus may want to consider a strategy that addresses all these levels in a joined-up way.
1. Engaging senior church leaders
2. Training church leaders
3. Working with theological colleges