My name is XXX and I am the pastor of XXX in XXX, Texas. I have been here for about 4.5 years and I am struggling.
Until I picked up a copy of your book I was beginning to think something was wrong with me. I find myself constantly getting frustrated and angry at what we call church and with other ministers. … I am afraid that if I share some of my frustrations, I will be run out of town as a heretic. I am very conservative in my theology, but I do not believe that the more"conservative" way of doing ministry is for me. Any hints or help would be greatly appreciated!
Answer: Increasing numbers of people feel as you do – that the old boxes of “conservative” and “liberal” don’t fit them – so first, know that you’re not alone. Here’s what I’d recommend: use the emergentvillage.com website to find or create a “cohort” – a group of other people, hopefully including some pastors, with whom you can gather for conversation and mutual encouragement. Don’t give up!