Partners in Ministry:

For over a decade now I have had the privilege in being involved in coaching ministry in the ELCA and NT-NL. In that time I have witnessed how coaching can make leaders more effective, insightful, and self-aware. Coaching is an intentional relationship in which the goals and learning of the person being coached is the focus. A good coach asks insightful questions, reflects the responses, and helps the coachee set and be accountable for their goals. What I love about coaching is that a good coach doesn’t provide the solution to the challenge but instead helps the coachee find that solution for themselves.

At our assembly you heard from Jill Beverlin, coordinator of coaching for the ELCA and a good friend of NT-NL. That video is available here: https://vimeo.com/manage/videos/539881511. She outlined the number of opportunities both for those interested in being trained as a coach as well as being coached. This is a way you can help us also. Ironically, one of the biggest challenges we face in coaching has been finding individuals willing to be coached. You can request a coach from NT-NL or beyond here.

We are continuing to lead in a challenging time. And coaching can assist you and your leaders. Another opportunity specifically for Pastors in this time is a cohort model we are developing with the help of the Rev. Dr. Wayne Menking. This cohort (information can be found here) will draw on his expertise as a pastor, chaplain, and CPE supervisor to provide a short term community of leaders who want to be intentional about their leadership in this time. To share the challenges they face but also move beyond that into learning new ways of leading.

Coaching. Participating in a leadership cohort. Working with the Rev. Kris Totzke and the Leadership for Faithful Innovation process. Being part of the LEAD Journey. These are all ways we as synod are working to partner with you, NT-NL leaders, to learn and grow together.

In Christ,

Bishop Gronberg