Together For The Bluegrass: Lessons Learned in Revitalization with Mark Clifton

In a recent live interview for the "Together for the Bluegrass" podcast, Mark Clifton, the head of the revitalization ministry at the North American Mission Board, shared invaluable insights on the crucial work of church revitalization. Joined by hosts David and CJ at Living Hope Fellowship in Lexington, Clifton's discussion provided a roadmap for church leaders and congregations facing the challenges of decline and seeking a path toward renewed health.

The Foundation of Patience and Trust

Clifton emphasized that revitalization is not a quick fix but a process rooted in patience and trust. He stressed that a pastor's first task is to be present with their congregation, understanding their history and story. Rather than rushing into a flurry of changes, leaders should take the time to discern God's direction, trusting that "it's his church" and He knows the way forward. The key, he noted, is to prioritize changes that are essential to the gospel and God's glory, while postponing cosmetic or preference-based adjustments (like logos or the order of service) until trust is firmly established.

The Pastor's Family: A Crucial Support System

A significant portion of the conversation was dedicated to the pastor's family. Clifton highlighted the importance of being transparent with spouses and children about the difficulties of ministry revitalization. He urged pastors to spend quality time with their families, ensuring they are not just physically present but emotionally engaged. He suggested that finding support systems outside the congregation is vital for the well-being of the pastor's family. He also shared a powerful perspective on work-life integration, advising against seeing family and church life as separate entities. Instead, he proposed, "Your family life is your church life," and a healthy family should be a model for the congregation.

A Vision for Growth and Impact

For churches seeking to grow, Clifton provided a clear vision and strategy. He stated that a compelling vision must start with the pastor and be focused on the community. He challenged churches to develop genuine compassion for their neighbors, praying specifically for local needs and workers. The goal, he said, is to increase the church's "ministry footprint" rather than simply focusing on numerical growth. He also encouraged leaders to be strategic with their resources, avoiding the trap of saying yes to every ministry idea.

Clifton also made a strong case for developing future leaders. He encouraged normative-sized churches (those with under 200 members) to actively train future pastors and missionaries, identifying and preparing individuals for seminary. He painted a picture of a pastor with a long-term ministry training a new leader every three years, potentially impacting ten churches over a career.

Navigating Current Challenges

The interview also addressed the sobering realities of the modern church landscape. Clifton pointed to the significant decline in trust in organized religion, noting that churches are now operating in a culture that is increasingly opposed to them. He stressed the importance of learning to minister to a community that may not be "rooting for us" and to develop compassion rather than resentment.

Finally, he spoke to the practical financial realities facing pastors today. With the rising cost of housing, he suggested that bi-vocational ministry and the return of the church parsonage may be key trends for the future.

Key Takeaways for Leaders

Clifton's insights culminated in several key action items for churches and pastors:

• Patience is a virtue: Trust God's timing and process.

• Family first: Be transparent with and present for your family, and seek outside support.

• Vision and purpose: Have a clear, pastor-led vision focused on community impact.

• Develop leaders: Intentionally train up the next generation of ministers.

• Embrace the challenge: Minister with compassion in a shifting cultural landscape.

• Innovate financially: Consider new models for pastoral support.

Ultimately, Clifton's message was one of hope and strategic action, reminding leaders that even in the face of decline, God is at work, and with a patient, prayerful, and compassionate approach, churches can be revitalized to reclaim their glory and purpose in their communities.