23 Jan 2025, 22:47Nicole Gooden & BUC Communications and Media
Embracing the Call: Equipping New Pastors for Dynamic Ministry in the British Isles
This year’s annual induction and orientation programme for new pastors took place at the British Union Conference (BUC) offices in Watford from Sabbath, 11 to Thursday, 16 January. The event was coordinated by the Ministerial Association Secretary of the BUC, Pastor Samuel Ouadjo and his team, Kathleen Hanson, alongside his counterparts from the North England Conference, Pastor Julian Kastrati, and the South England Conference (SEC), Pastor Kwesi Moore. The programme featured a diverse lineup of speakers, including retired minister Dr Don McFarlane (former BUC President), Dr Steve Currow (Newbold College Principal), Dr Gifford Rhamie (Newbold College Lecturer), Dr Brighton Kavaloh (SEC Public Affairs and Religious Liberty (PARL) Coordinator), Dr Patrick Johnson (Trans-European Division Ministerial Association Secretary), and various directors from the British Union Conference and the Stanborough Press. They presented numerous aspects related to the needs of the ministry.
The following excerpts are a reflection from one of the inductees, Nicole Gooden.
The recent induction of new pastors in the British Union Conference was a transformative experience, equipping us with the knowledge and practical tools necessary for effective ministry. The sessions covered a wide range of topics essential for navigating the complexities of pastoral work in today’s diverse and dynamic environment. Throughout the induction week, we had the opportunity to share and acquire valuable lessons that we can immediately apply in our ministerial endeavours.
Our Church is a vibrant mosaic of cultures, reflecting the global nature of our faith. Embracing this diversity enriches our community and strengthens our mission. We are called to celebrate our differences and, in doing so, to work towards unity in Christ.
Engaging with contemporary theological issues is crucial for the growth and relevance of our Church. Topics such as the interpretation of Scripture, the role of Ellen G White, and issues of human sexuality and gender are at the forefront of our discussions. Addressing these challenges with openness and respect will help us to navigate differences and build a stronger, more unified church.
Pastors in the British Union are called to be in the world but not of the world. This involves acclimatising and acculturating to effectively minister to our diverse communities. Combatting imposter syndrome and integrating our theological training into our ministry are essential for effective leadership. We must always ask, “What is the theology behind this?” in all aspects of our work.
It was helpful to briefly reflect on the Church’s history, as understanding our history is essential for appreciating our journey and the foundations of our faith. The Seventh-day Adventist Church in the UK has a rich heritage of dedication and service, which continues to inspire our mission today. Reflecting on our past helps us chart a course for the future grounded in our core values and principles.
In this current climate, Public Affairs and Religious Liberty play a crucial role in advocating for the Church and promoting religious freedom. PARL represents the Church before governments and international organisations and ensures that our voice is heard on health, education, and human rights issues. We are all ambassadors for Christ, called to engage with the public square but always with gentleness and respect (2 Corinthians 5:20).
This kind of attitude is essential and required when it comes to crisis management, an indispensable skill for church leaders. Having a crisis plan in place, being prepared to act quickly, and communicating effectively are crucial for navigating difficult situations and maintaining the trust of our church community. Establishing a crisis management team and conducting regular rehearsals can enhance our preparedness.
Effective management of church finances is vital for sustaining our mission. Transparency, accountability, and strategic planning are key to ensuring that our resources are used wisely and effectively. Providing financial workshops and regular updates to the congregation promotes trust and stewardship.
We know that the work is great; however, balancing ministry and family life is a significant challenge for pastors. It is important to prioritise family while fulfilling our pastoral duties, ensuring that neither is neglected. Offering support services and promoting a healthy work-life balance are essential for sustainable ministry. Pastors must prioritise their personal health to serve effectively. This includes physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Taking time for self-care and seeking support when needed are important aspects of a sustainable ministry.
While we do this, we should also ensure the safety and well-being of our congregation, especially the vulnerable, as a top priority. Implementing robust safeguarding policies and practices protects our community and upholds our commitment to care and compassion. Providing safeguarding training and conducting regular audits are essential steps in this process.
Evangelism remains the lifeblood of our Church. We are called to lead a mission, not an institution, preparing people for the return of Jesus. Our mission is to engage with our communities and share the gospel with love and respect. The Adventist Discovery Centre can play a pivotal role in providing Bible studies and resources for spiritual growth. It is a valuable tool for evangelism and discipleship, helping individuals deepen their understanding of the Bible and their relationship with God. Promoting the Centre’s resources and establishing Bible study groups can support this mission. This is in addition to literature evangelism, which continues to be a powerful method of sharing the gospel.
ADRA-UK exemplifies our commitment to humanitarian work and social justice. Through various projects and initiatives, ADRA-UK provides aid and development and advocates for the rights and well-being of marginalised communities.
Professional development was also a key focus of the induction, highlighting its significance not only for personal growth but also for the Church’s growth and future generations’ inspiration. Continuous learning and professional development are essential. As pastors enhance their knowledge and skills, they become better equipped to lead their congregations effectively, fostering a vibrant and dynamic church community. Additionally, dedication to growth serves as a powerful example for the next generation, motivating young people to pursue their own spiritual and professional development.
As we move forward, with God as our Guide, we are reminded that “actions repeated form habits, habits form character, and by the character our destiny for time and for eternity is decided” (Christ’s Object Lessons, pg. 356.2).
This induction has equipped us with the knowledge and tools to serve our churches and communities effectively. As we embrace our roles, we must remain committed to our mission, guided by faith, and united in our purpose.
This year’s annual induction and orientation programme for new pastors took place at the British Union Conference (BUC) offices in Watford from Sabbath, 11 to Thursday, 16 January. The event was coordinated by the Ministerial Association Secretary of the BUC, Pastor Samuel Ouadjo and his team, Kathleen Hanson, alongside his counterparts from the North England Conference, Pastor Julian Kastrati, and the South England Conference (SEC), Pastor Kwesi Moore. The programme featured a diverse lineup of speakers, including retired minister Dr Don McFarlane (former BUC President), Dr Steve Currow (Newbold College Principal), Dr Gifford Rhamie (Newbold College Lecturer), Dr Brighton Kavaloh (SEC Public Affairs and Religious Liberty (PARL) Coordinator), Dr Patrick Johnson (Trans-European Division Ministerial Association Secretary), and various directors from the British Union Conference and the Stanborough Press. They presented numerous aspects related to the needs of the ministry.
The following excerpts are a reflection from one of the inductees, Nicole Gooden.
The recent induction of new pastors in the British Union Conference was a transformative experience, equipping us with the knowledge and practical tools necessary for effective ministry. The sessions covered a wide range of topics essential for navigating the complexities of pastoral work in today’s diverse and dynamic environment. Throughout the induction week, we had the opportunity to share and acquire valuable lessons that we can immediately apply in our ministerial endeavours.
Our Church is a vibrant mosaic of cultures, reflecting the global nature of our faith. Embracing this diversity enriches our community and strengthens our mission. We are called to celebrate our differences and, in doing so, to work towards unity in Christ.
Engaging with contemporary theological issues is crucial for the growth and relevance of our Church. Topics such as the interpretation of Scripture, the role of Ellen G White, and issues of human sexuality and gender are at the forefront of our discussions. Addressing these challenges with openness and respect will help us to navigate differences and build a stronger, more unified church.
Pastors in the British Union are called to be in the world but not of the world. This involves acclimatising and acculturating to effectively minister to our diverse communities. Combatting imposter syndrome and integrating our theological training into our ministry are essential for effective leadership. We must always ask, “What is the theology behind this?” in all aspects of our work.
It was helpful to briefly reflect on the Church’s history, as understanding our history is essential for appreciating our journey and the foundations of our faith. The Seventh-day Adventist Church in the UK has a rich heritage of dedication and service, which continues to inspire our mission today. Reflecting on our past helps us chart a course for the future grounded in our core values and principles.
In this current climate, Public Affairs and Religious Liberty play a crucial role in advocating for the Church and promoting religious freedom. PARL represents the Church before governments and international organisations and ensures that our voice is heard on health, education, and human rights issues. We are all ambassadors for Christ, called to engage with the public square but always with gentleness and respect (2 Corinthians 5:20).
This kind of attitude is essential and required when it comes to crisis management, an indispensable skill for church leaders. Having a crisis plan in place, being prepared to act quickly, and communicating effectively are crucial for navigating difficult situations and maintaining the trust of our church community. Establishing a crisis management team and conducting regular rehearsals can enhance our preparedness.
Effective management of church finances is vital for sustaining our mission. Transparency, accountability, and strategic planning are key to ensuring that our resources are used wisely and effectively. Providing financial workshops and regular updates to the congregation promotes trust and stewardship.
We know that the work is great; however, balancing ministry and family life is a significant challenge for pastors. It is important to prioritise family while fulfilling our pastoral duties, ensuring that neither is neglected. Offering support services and promoting a healthy work-life balance are essential for sustainable ministry. Pastors must prioritise their personal health to serve effectively. This includes physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Taking time for self-care and seeking support when needed are important aspects of a sustainable ministry.
While we do this, we should also ensure the safety and well-being of our congregation, especially the vulnerable, as a top priority. Implementing robust safeguarding policies and practices protects our community and upholds our commitment to care and compassion. Providing safeguarding training and conducting regular audits are essential steps in this process.
Evangelism remains the lifeblood of our Church. We are called to lead a mission, not an institution, preparing people for the return of Jesus. Our mission is to engage with our communities and share the gospel with love and respect. The Adventist Discovery Centre can play a pivotal role in providing Bible studies and resources for spiritual growth. It is a valuable tool for evangelism and discipleship, helping individuals deepen their understanding of the Bible and their relationship with God. Promoting the Centre’s resources and establishing Bible study groups can support this mission. This is in addition to literature evangelism, which continues to be a powerful method of sharing the gospel.
ADRA-UK exemplifies our commitment to humanitarian work and social justice. Through various projects and initiatives, ADRA-UK provides aid and development and advocates for the rights and well-being of marginalised communities.
Professional development was also a key focus of the induction, highlighting its significance not only for personal growth but also for the Church’s growth and future generations’ inspiration. Continuous learning and professional development are essential. As pastors enhance their knowledge and skills, they become better equipped to lead their congregations effectively, fostering a vibrant and dynamic church community. Additionally, dedication to growth serves as a powerful example for the next generation, motivating young people to pursue their own spiritual and professional development.
As we move forward, with God as our Guide, we are reminded that “actions repeated form habits, habits form character, and by the character our destiny for time and for eternity is decided” (Christ’s Object Lessons, pg. 356.2).
This induction has equipped us with the knowledge and tools to serve our churches and communities effectively. As we embrace our roles, we must remain committed to our mission, guided by faith, and united in our purpose.
