Courage in Crises Jeff Iorg, President

Pastoral leaders demonstrate leadership during crises Natural disaster. Human catastrophe. Personal.

Theological realities of pastoral presence You represent God. You remind people of Jesus. You are an agent through which the Spirit is working. You symbolize the presence of a particular church.

Practical challenges of being pastorally present in a crisis Presence takes a lot of time – but people are your priority. Presence can be draining – emotional connections usually are; physical demands may be significant. Crisis may also be impacting you personally – self-care and family care become issues. Crisis may derail other pressing ministry concerns – people do not die on schedule.

Leadership strategies for pastoral ministry in crises Show up Pastoral presence is powerful. People equate presence with caring. Stand up Leaders lead – even when they aren’t sure how to lead. Leaders lead – because others are less likely to lead than ever.

Leadership strategies for pastoral ministry in crises Speak up Speak simple truth – over and over. Avoid trying to explain the unexplainable. Be a voice for hurting people to “people in power.” 

www.gs.edu @Jeff_Iorg