Lead Time

Discover the unexpected ways small churches are making a huge impact in the world of church planting, as Reverend Dr. Chris Holder joins us to share his wisdom on fostering gospel-centered growth. Through our enlightening conversation, it becomes clear that the size of a congregation doesn't dictate its ability to contribute to new ministries. We delve into the power of collaboration, from networks to mergers, and shine a light on creative strategies that move beyond the traditional, such as planting churches in art galleries and other non-traditional venues. This episode is a call to action for churches to shed the scarcity mindset and embrace innovation in spreading the gospel.As we navigate the nuances of leadership and formation within smaller congregations, Dr. Holder provides invaluable insights into the balance required between academic theology and hands-on ministry. We address the fears and skepticism prevalent in American Christianity, particularly within the LCMS, about the potential dilution of the Gospel with church growth. Emphasizing the central message of Christ's redemption, Dr. Holder encourages a robust approach to ministry that trusts in the Holy Spirit’s ability to work through our imperfections. Tune in as we explore how a united vision among church leaders can lead to a revitalized church community that's ready to grow and deploy leaders for the kingdom.Support the showVisit uniteleadership.org

What does it take to maintain a strong LCMS identity in a diverse academic setting? Dr. Thomas offers an insightful look into Concordia Irvine's hiring practices, the emphasis on Lutheran intellectual tradition, and the holistic formation of students. From the operational dynamics of the Concordia University System to the strategic efforts to build unity while respecting individuality, this episode offers a deep dive into the leadership and culture that drive Concordia University, Irvine. Tune in to hear about the efforts to maintain transparency, inclusivity, and a team-oriented approach that fosters a vibrant and innovative academic environment.Curious about how to lead a university through a global pandemic? Dr. Michael Thomas, President of Concordia University, Irvine, shares his incredible journey of steering the institution to new heights amidst unprecedented challenges. During his candid conversation, Dr. Thomas delves into the strategic rebranding of the university, clarifying its mission, vision, and values, and the exciting new construction projects on campus. These pivotal changes are all leading up to Concordia's 50th anniversary, marking a new era of growth and innovation for the university.In a bold and ambitious move, Concordia University, Irvine expanded its facilities with the $45 million acquisition of a new campus. Dr. Thomas discusses this transformative decision, emphasizing the importance of adaptive leadership and the university's commitment to faith in a rapidly changing world. He also reflects on the emotional impact of the closure of Concordia University, Portland, and the resilience of the community in moving forward. This episode highlights the delicate balance of innovation and tradition in higher education, particularly within a post-Christian environment.##########Support the showVisit uniteleadership.org

Have you ever felt like growth is a battle rather than a blessing? Join Tim Ahlman in this candid bonus episode of Lead Time, where he shares his personal reflections on growth, both as a spiritual journey and a complex challenge. Through the lens of his own struggles with negative thought patterns and spiritual warfare, Tim opens up about finding solace in writing and poetry. Listen as he presents his spoken word poem "Growth," offering a raw and honest portrayal of the fears and insecurities that often accompany our growth journeys, coupled with the assurance of God's unwavering support.Read the Blog here!! Support the showVisit uniteleadership.org

Lyman Stone addresses Former President Jerry Kieschnick's 12 reasons for  membership decline in the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod. We take a heartfelt look at the challenges Kieschnick faced and emphasize the crucial need for conversations filled with love and truth when discussing church governance, mission focus, and theological concerns.In our discussion, we reveal how demographic trends such as low birth rates and youth retention have led to a generational decline in LCMS membership. With retention rates plummeting from 90% to 40%, and the fading ethnic solidarity among German Lutherans, the church faces unprecedented challenges. We explore the necessity of forging a new cultural identity to maintain cohesion within the church community. By examining the parable of the sower and the potent influence of contemporary culture on children, we highlight the urgent need for unity and proactive strategies, including encouraging higher birth rates among members, to address these demographic hurdles. Don’t miss this enlightening episode filled with  practical analysis and solutions for the future of the LCMS.#####Support the showVisit uniteleadership.org

Unlock the secrets to fostering long-lasting pastor-church relationships as we sit down with Tim Nations of Chemistry Staffing. This episode is an invaluable resource for church leaders seeking to navigate the nuanced world of ministry team dynamics. We delve into why aligning theological beliefs is just the starting point for successful partnerships and how the search for the right fit can avoid the costly trend of short pastoral tenures.Churches today face the daunting task of not only finding youth pastors but also offering them a package that competes with secular opportunities. With Tim's expert guidance, we confront the hard truths about youth pastor compensation and the sobering effect underinvestment has on the future of church leadership. Listen in to grasp the importance of building a culture that values and rewards the dedication of these pivotal roles.We wrap up our conversation by challenging the status quo of church leadership. From the interplay of trust and healthy staff relationships to the broader implications of collaborative decision-making, we dissect the elements that make or break church initiatives. With a special focus on the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod, we discuss how they're balancing tradition with innovation, ensuring their mission thrives without compromising their foundational theology. Join us as we explore these critical topics, all aimed at empowering church leaders to propel their congregations toward a flourishing future.Support the showVisit uniteleadership.org

Embracing the complexities of modern ministry, Pastor Joe Beran joins us to dissect the vibrant landscape of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod, specifically the feedback on his provocative book, "The Ends of the LCMS." His insights reveal a ministry striving to stay relevant amidst an ever-evolving culture, as ministers resonate with his candid observations while raising thoughtful critiques. We navigate through the treacherous waters of reactive church strategies and the quest for proactive engagement in a society that seems to be drifting further from traditional Christian values.Trading the familiarity of the Midwest for the cultural mosaic of Southern California, my own journey echoes the adaptability and resilience required to minister effectively in such a diverse region. Pastor Beran and I explore the surprising spiritual curiosity found in Californians, the necessity of initiating Spanish worship services, and the strategic approaches to bolster biblical literacy. This conversation unveils the profound shifts in church leadership necessary to meet the spiritual needs of a community rich in cultural and linguistic variety.As we wrap up, the focus shifts to the delicate balance of roles within the church community. We discuss the risks of overemphasizing pastoral roles, advocating for collaborative leadership that leverages the myriad of gifts present in the church body. Pastor Beran and I ponder the merits of fewer, more vibrant congregations over a multitude of struggling ones, and we conclude with a heartfelt invitation for leaders to unite under initiatives like the Unite Leadership Collective. It's a call to forge ahead with innovation, while firmly rooted in biblical doctrine, to face the challenges of ministry with grace and tenacity.Support the showVisit uniteleadership.org

Explore the dynamic interplay of faith and leadership with Jim Sanft, president of Concordia Plan Services, as we uncover the foundations of his insightful new book, "Leading by Faith." Jim, with his characteristic blend of humility and expertise, peels back the layers on the limitations of a purely mathematical approach to problem-solving and invites us into a world where God's boundless mathematics take the lead. Our conversation navigates the powerful potential of church partnerships within the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod, particularly in youth ministry, and how seasoned pastors play a pivotal role in nurturing the confidence of emerging leaders.In a landscape where mentorship and the integration of theological heritage with practical ministry training are the cornerstones, we examine the biblical roots of partnership. Reflecting on the leadership exemplified by Moses and Aaron, Elijah, and Jesus with his disciples, we discuss the 'both and' rather than 'either or' approach that amplifies the impact of collective ministry. Adding to this rich tapestry, we delve into gender diversity in leadership teams, highlighting the importance of different perspectives and the power of iron sharpening iron through constructive conflict.The strategic brilliance behind Concordia Plan Services is also laid bare, as we discuss their adept management of a substantial investment portfolio and the collective bargaining power that provides smaller ministries with much-needed resources. The chapter on leadership journeys is a treasure trove of insights, revealing the humility and trust required in faith-based leadership and challenging conventional wisdom. As we conclude, we honor the transformative influence of individuals like Jim Sanft in the church community and the mission of the Unite Leadership Collective to blend biblical Lutheran doctrine with innovative methods to spread the gospel message.Support the showVisit uniteleadership.org

Is your local church functioning with the finesse of a Fortune 500 company? Discover why Candice and I believe that embracing business-like efficiency isn't just practical—it's essential for ministries to thrive. In a provocative conversation, we delve into the symbiotic relationship between spiritual missions and financial acumen. With Jesus's own ministry as our prime example, we expose the parallels between apostolic prudence and the demands of modern church management. We argue that a church, akin to a family-run entity, thrives when it adopts sound fiscal habits, ensuring it remains a beacon of service and community support.Balancing the spontaneous with the systematic is as crucial in ministry as it is in any successful enterprise. Candice and I navigate this complex dynamic, dissecting how too much structure or spontaneity can lead to congregational discomfort or disconnection. The discussion illuminates the consequences of policies that rigidify, suggesting instead a model rooted in adaptability and the recognition of individual talents. Reflecting on how Jesus blended both approaches, we encourage church leaders to foster environments that honor the spirit's movement while sustaining organizational productivity, creating a warm, inclusive community.Finally, a church's liturgy is not immune to the winds of cultural change. We tackle the challenge of preserving tradition while welcoming the new, ensuring that our practices resonate with diverse congregations. We share success stories of ministries that have innovated without sacrificing the gospel's core, and celebrate a board’s bold leadership in action—reaching new milestones of impact while grounded in prayer and faith. Join us for this enlightening journey through the intricacies of church management and leadership, all woven together by the transformative power of living out our faith.Support the showVisit uniteleadership.org

Join us for our first ever HOT TOPIC FRIDAY discussion. Guests and I will debate 3 topics for 10 minutes each!! Come back Fridays for more engaging content modeling healthy debate!Discover the crucial intersection of soul care and ministry leadership as we sit down with Bill and Kristi Gaultiere. Through their expert lens as psychologists with a passion for spiritual direction, we uncover the often-neglected truth that the health of a pastor's soul is intimately tied to the vitality of their ministry. Our candid discussion not only highlights the intellectual aspects of shepherding a congregation but also emphasizes the emotional, mental, and physical facets that contribute to a pastor's holistic well-being. The Gaultieres offer profound insights into why soul care isn't a luxury for pastors but a fundamental necessity to maintain the joy and authenticity of their calling.Support the showVisit uniteleadership.org

Embark on a profound exploration of God's mission and its undeniable impact on ministry, as Reverend Dr. William Utech shares his expert insights. Dr. Utech, with his deep roots in confessional Lutheranism, joins me to dissect the Missio Dei concept, revealing how God's mission permeates through the Church's work in our world. Our conversation traverses the historical and contemporary landscape, considering the example set by the apostles and its resounding echo in today's pastoral leadership.Navigating the turbulent waters of church dynamics, we confront polarization and the dire need for kindness and unity within our communities. Dr. Utech's wisdom illuminates the path for cultivating leaders who embrace the priesthood of all believers, highlighting the impressive growth of churches in Ethiopia. Emotional intelligence emerges as a cornerstone of pastoral care, reshaping our understanding of leadership and the indelible social capital it can create within a congregation.As we consider the vibrancy and health of the Church, particularly during times of transition and decline, Dr. Utech casts a vision of hope and resilience. We discuss empowering lay leaders and fostering multiculturalism, indispensable for a Church aligned with the Missio Dei. Together, we champion the call to build multi-ethnic church partnerships, stepping beyond traditional norms to forge a dynamic, inclusive future for the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod and beyond. Join us on this journey of discovery, where faith meets practice and tradition embraces transformation.Support the showVisit uniteleadership.org