Staff & the Local Church

I have been fortunate to surround myself with good staff members over the years. I have served with Youth Ministers, Music Ministers, Family Ministers and several Administrative Assistants. I have worked with both part time and full time staff members as well as interns. Each staff member has brought something different to the ministry where I have served. Currently two of the staff members I served with are now leading churches and developing there own staff. Both are are doing a good work in their respective ministries. While I have had good relationships with all of the staff I have worked with, I know there are some church leaders who face staff dysfunction.When there is staff conflict everyone loses, the church is divided and the mission of Christ is halted.

So how do we develop good staff relationships?

1. Staff Meetings are vital - We currently have a weekly staff meeting on Monday mornings. During that time we discuss the church calendar, the previous Sunday's victories and setbacks as well as future plans. Staff meetings are the first line of communication for our church. Everyone gets on the same page at Staff Meeting. To me staff meetings are vital for communication as well as a connecting point for the week.
2. Staff "Fun" Time is essential - We make it a point at PBCC for the staff to go to lunch once a month - with only one rule; no staff or church business. Once a moth does not seem like much fellowship, but the nature of our ministry schedules does not allow for more weekly interaction at this time. In addition to our staff lunch (BTW it was today, loved the Chinese Food), we have a staff Christmas party in December; we try to develop a camaraderie that goes beyond just being staff members, we want to be partners in ministry, the staff fun time helps develop this partnership.
3. Team Philosophy - My style of leadership fits the team concept. While I am the lead pastor, I defer to others who have expertise in a certain areas. We are better as a team because of the synergy effort that comes from a teamwork mindset. The team concept gives staff a sense of being a part of the "big picture" of ministry. As well as communicates to the staff, everyone has worth and value on the team.
4. Trust - As staff we must trust one another completely, the knowledge that we have one another's back, helps us develop a sense of trust for one another.

These are just few ideas I have regarding staff relationships in the church. On a personal note, allow me to express my appreciation for all the staff who have partnered with me over the last few years. I have learned a lot from each one as we have teamed up for the glory of God.