Theology in the Raw Tyler Staton on Pastoring Bridgetown Church, Poetry, and Ministry from NYC to Portland
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Mar 30, 2026 
Tyler Staton, lead pastor of Bridgetown Church and writer of prayerful books like After Amen, blends pastoral leadership with poetic prayer. He discusses discovering poetry as prayer, leading a large church through succession, expanding elder roles, and living a word-and-spirit church life in Portland. Short, reflective conversations on ministry, creativity, and congregational care.
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Transition Happened Amid COVID Movement
- Some people left and others joined during the transition to Tyler's leadership, partly because the handover coincided with COVID regathering and population shifts.
- He noticed a mix of long-term members and newcomers, which eased attachment to the founding pastor.
Lead A Yearlong Study Before Governance Change
- To change a church's governance, lead a yearlong process of study, outside speakers, and unanimous elder agreement before implementing policy shifts.
- Tyler required unanimous elder support and staff follow-up before allowing women to serve as elders.
Culture Trumps Labels In Gender Leadership
- Culture often matters more than formal theology because governance can conceal or enable real pathways for women to lead.
- Tyler stresses creating dignifying pathways and a culture where both maleness and femaleness are honored in gift expression.
