Coaching is one-on-one conversations with a person who listens carefully, asks helpful questions, and understands the complex challenges of pastoral ministry. This coaching relationship is dedicated to exploring both immediate issues and long range goals while providing personal support, a source of accountability and, when helpful, direction and guidance. Click here to see our Philosophy & Process of Coaching.

History of Coaching

Executive Coaching is rooted in the coaching of athletes and musicians to perform at their top level, some becoming "world class". Corporations recognized that a similar coaching relationship could enable executives to provide more effective leadership. The success of executive Coaching over the last three decades has led to in increasing numbers of corporations providing Coaches for their top leaders. 

Coaching and Church Leadership

The church has more recently begun using coaching as a primary means of leadership support for a variety of specific ministries as well as general parish ministry. Twin Cities based Clergy Coaches, one of the early coaching resources designed exclusively for pastors, began providing coaching in 2000. Pastors who have worked with a Coach consistently comment on the value the coaching has had for them both personally and professionally. Through more effective leadership, coaching has also benefited the congregations they serve and contributed to the building of a healthier church.

Clergy Coaches is…

• Efficient – Coaching sessions are offered on the telephone allowing for maximum flexibility and efficient use of the Pastor's time. A coaching session is normally 30 minutes long and is generally scheduled every other week.
• Performance Based – Coaching is intended to support Pastors in clarifying challenges, developing leadership effectiveness, and achieving professional goals. Coaching is not for Pastors in the midst of crisis.
• Cost Effective – 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 scholarship.
• Confidential – The content of coaching is confidential.