Pastoral Calls

Willoughby Hills Friends Church has a congregational form of government which means ultimate power resides with the membership. The membership approves yearly budgets, sets policy and appoints leaders to govern their affairs. On March 15 the membership will discern God's will regarding pastoral staff and vote on whether or not to extend one year "at will" calls based upon my recommendation.

Last year due to a decrease in weekly giving we had to adjust the budget and issue a final call to one full time pastoral staff and four part time supporting staff members. With God's help we were able to finish 2008 in the black and at this point we are meeting our 2009 budgetary needs. As of this time I am recommending the recall of all existing staff personnel except for the ones referenced above.

Recently I have been asked, "How I determine who will be recalled?" My answer, the recall process is both an art and science. It is an art form in that it involves relationship. The decision is not made in a vacuum but rather is vet through key leaders such as our elder body and overseers. Also, before a recommendation is presented for a Congregational vote it is passed through our Administrative Council as well.

The recall process is also "artful" in that it involves prayer and fasting. Decisions of this magnitude cannot be made emotionally by myself or others. We need God's direction. Through prayer God centers and unites the hearts of His people. Fasting aids us spiritually in separating ourselves from the distractions that would normally hinder our ability to discern God's will.

The recall process is scientific in that a system is utilized. Each year I systematically conduct a review of our staff commonly referred to as a "360 evaluation." I will share more about the "360" tomorrow but the "skinny" today is, the 360 includes a written evaluation of the lay leaders who serve with our pastoral staff (generally these people are selected by the person under review), other staff members, my self, elders, and in some instances our Spiritual Life Commission. The 360 also includes a "personal assessment" completed by the individual pastor. Along with the "360" data, our leadership gives consideration to performance, goals, vision, style, creativity, attitude, and the strength of individual job descriptions verses the current needs of the organization.

Once all the scientific data is gathered and sufficient fasting and prayer has occurred, we lay it all on the proverbial spiritual "fleece" before the Lord. At WHFC we believe this is Christ's church and He is the Head. That God still speaks today and His people can discern His voice. What are your thoughts on this process?

Thanks for stopping by!
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Adrian