When You’re Not “In Charge”

By Neal Michell What do you do when you’re not the leader of the organization? There are a lot of books aimed at helping the leader to lead, but what of the second- or third-level staff member, particularly ... Read More...

Against Non-Apologies

What Sir Paul McCartney Understands About Contrition That Frank Sinatra, Marvin Gaye, and Elvis Did Not (Nor Most Current Public Apologizers) By Neal Michell We live in an age of public apologies. Politicia... Read More...

Celebrating Christmas in Advent

By Neal Michell I have a confession to make: I have already put up our Christmas tree... and our outdoor lights... and I was singing Christmas carols while doing so. In fact, they were all put up before the ... Read More...

The First Ninety Days, Part 3

The new rector should use the first 90 days to establish the new priest as role of a caring pastor of the congregation by spending his or her time listening to as many parishioners as possible. This requires great intentionality on the part of the new rector. By being intentional in these first 90 days the new rector can instill a sense of enthusiasm and develop some early momentum in this crucial time in the life of the congregation.