Right now, success in ministry may look more like joyful gatherings, meeting a need in the community in tangible way, and moments of grace, gratitude, and kindness than 26 fully functional committees cranking out church work.” Our best measure of success in the future may not be “bustling” or “bigger” or “all-encompassing,” but “thriving” and “joyful” and “kind.” During the next few months (when everything seems quiet on the search front—although it isn’t), we need to carefully consider what’s truly important for our beloved community. When we welcome our new settled minister, we’ll be ready with reasonable expectations and a mindset for true success.]]>