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Publication Date
3-2020
Abstract
This project is a case study of resistance within the adaptive change process of the first shared pastorate between two long established declining sibling churches: Pioneer Presbyterian Church of Marinette, Wisconsin and First Presbyterian Church of Menominee, Michigan. It examines the differences in their responses to their decline, the changing world around them and lessons that can be learned about how early organizational culture imprints with the capacity or the lack of capacity to change.
The first section examines the context of the ministry and the pastor. The community and congregational context of these congregations provides insight into their differing responses towards the shared pastorate and adaptive change. Furthermore, the pastor’s history, knowledge, and adaptive capacity further influences a congregation’s ability to navigate decline and change. The second section examines death, loss, and the grieving process within the context of a shared pastorate. As a congregation approaches organizational death, can the grieving process help it to find acceptance and a new pathway forward? Finally, the third section provides a narrative of change and resistance over the eight years of the shared pastorate.
Adaptive change requires a leader to pivot and reframe in response to resistance. A shared pastorate between declining sibling congregations brings unique challenges for a pastor leading adaptive change. This paper is a reflection upon the journey to assist two congregations despite resistance to find acceptance in the midst of the grief and loss to their changing situation.
Degree Name
Doctor of Ministry (DMin)
First Advisor
Bolsinger, Tod
Document Type
Project
Language
English
Keywords
Christian leadership, Pastoral care, Adaptability, Grief, Pioneer Presbyterian Church of Marinette, Wisconsin and First Presbyterian Church of Menominee Michigan
Disciplines
Missions and World Christianity | Practical Theology
Upload File
wf_yes
Date Uploaded
3-26-2020
Collection Number
DMin125
File Name
DMin125-0407
Rights
Material is subject to copyright.
Recommended Citation
Nelson, Jon K., "Memoirs of Resistance and Change within a Shared Pastorate" (2020). Doctor of Ministry Projects. 402.
https://digitalcommons.fuller.edu/dmin/402
Embargo Period
3-26-2020
Comments
This was uploaded by the David Allan Hubbard Library from the Theological Research Exchange Network (TREN). If there are any mistakes in this record, please contact archives@fuller.edu