Confrontation - As a pastor who loves to encourage and nurture others, I find it difficult to confront people.  Can you give me some do’s and don’ts and how-to’s (or how not-to)?  When do you confront and when do you simply overlook something?  Can you give me some advice on how to confront a staff member, a volunteer, or a church member about an issue?  Also, are there some preventative, "up-front" types of things I can do so that I don't feel a need to confront issues as often? Read the responses.

Marriage and Ministry – It’s been difficult for me to balance ministry and marriage.  Ministry seems to have so many demands that my marriage has suffered.  Can seasoned pastors share some tips with me about what they’ve done to keep their marriages strong and vibrant in the midst of ministry responsibilities? Read the responses.

Discipleship and Assimilation – It seems that the only discipleship format out there that is working is the cell group.  Is anyone doing anything different that is working?  How are pastors plugging new believers into their churches and assuring that they are getting grounded in the Word and in fellowship? Read the responses.

Handling an Exodus – As a young pastor, it’s been difficult for me when people leave our church.  At times, I’ve taken it very personally when people leave, as though I have failed.  In other situations, I’ve found myself getting angry at people when they leave.  I don’t want to be crushed or calloused.  How can I process these situations spiritually, emotionally, and even logistically when people leave the church.  I have to deal with all of this internally, but I also have to continue to lead my staff and the rest of the church people through these situations.  Can you give me some advice on how to handle “departures” both on a personal level and as a leader? Read the responses.

Staff Development - I’m looking for insights on how to work with and develop my staff, not so much what to expect from them, but rather, I’d like to know: “What are a pastor’s responsibilities toward his or her staff?”  Read the responses.

A Different Time? - Is pastoring different today than it was ten, fifteen, or twenty years ago?  It seems like it is, but I’m trying to define how it’s different. Is society different?  Are church members different?  Are the expectations and commitment levels of people different?  Can you help me understand this?  Read the responses.

Generating Outreach - I’m looking for ways to get my people more “outside minded.”  What are other pastors doing that inspire outreach and evangelism among their members?  What programs are effective?  Read the responses.

Unmarried Couples - We occasionally have people come to us who have been living together (outside of marriage) and they want us to perform a wedding ceremony for them.  What should a pastor do in that kind of situation, and what kind of policies do churches have regarding this?  Read the responses.

Stress and Ministry - How do you deal with stress in the ministry?  Do you have hobbies?  How much time do you take off, and what do you do when you’re off?  What have you learned in ministry that has helped you deal with stress and pressure? Read the responses.

Styles of Ministry - I’ve been considering and exploring various styles of ministry lately.  I have certain core values that compel me to hold to an emphasis that is strong in the Word of God and the Holy Spirit, but I’m also seeing many churches that could be termed “seeker sensitive” that are seemingly experiencing a lot of growth.  Is it possible to integrate certain principles from other churches without compromising our core values?  Are there pros and cons in this area? Read the responses.