Q. How do pastors benefit from coaching?

Pastors develop more effective ways of addressing complex leadership challenges while further developing leadership skills. These benefits come through a unique relationship with a Coach who understands the complex challenges of ministry and who is skilled at careful listening and asking helpful questions – questions that enable pastors to gain fresh perspectives and discover new solutions to present challenges.  

Q. Why do busy pastors work with Coaches?

The short answer is to save time. Coaching helps pastors develop clarity on priorities, efficiency in their use of time, and healthier boundaries enabling a better balance in their lives. Time devoted to coaching is gained back many times over.

Q. How do congregations benefit from their pastor’s coaching?

The ultimate value of coaching is healthier, more vital congregations. It is our conviction that the health of congregations is strongly influenced by the health and effectiveness of their pastoral leaders. This is true of all organizations and is why many corporations today provide coaching for their top executives. These corporations know that the benefits of coaching will far outweigh their financial investment. Congregations likewise benefit when they encourage and financially support coaching for their pastor(s).

Q. At what times is coaching most helpful?

Working with a Coach can be helpful at anytime in one’s ministry. It may be particularly valuable, however, in times of transition such as beginning a new call – especially if the setting or nature of the call is also new. Even changes in an existing call brought about by congregational growth or demographic shifts can present new challenges for which coaching may be helpful. Beyond such specific circumstances, coaching is most helpful at times when a pastor is motivated to learn and grow as a pastoral leader. 

Q. Who may request a Coach?

Any pastor of any denomination, whether serving a parish or in a specialized ministry setting, who wishes to further develop his or her pastoral leadership skills, may request a coach.

Q. Who are the Coaches?

Coaches are experienced pastors who have demonstrated excellence in pastoral leadership, are committed to developing pastoral leadership in others, and have received training in the skills and processes of coaching. (Click on “Coach Bios” for information on the coaches.)

Q. May pastors choose their Coach?

Yes, a pastor may request a specific Coach. A list of our Coaches, accompanied by a brief biography, is available on this website. Just click on “Coach Bios”. If a pastor does not have a request, a Coach will be recommended based on the pastor’s goals. A pastor may also interview any of the Coaches. The availability of a specific Coach may depend on their current coaching schedule. 

Q. What is the cost of coaching?

The cost of coaching for 12 sessions is $600 - much less than any comparable individual leadership resource. Some judicatories and an increasing number of congregations are providing financial support. Scholarships are available for those who would not otherwise be able to afford coaching. You may wish to talk with your judicatory and congregation about your desire to work with a Coach. Contact Clergy Coaches if you would like to apply for a a scholarship.

Q. How do I receive an application form or more information?

All applications are found under the left column “forms” section. Additional information can be obtained by contacting info@clergycoaches.org. 

You may also contact Ms. Ginger Fish at:             
Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota
1.800.582.5260, ext. 276
Email: clergycoaches@lssmn.org