Last week, I had the privilege of attending a conference for Elders and Pastors from FIEC churches, where the theme centred around the role of the shepherd. It was a powerful reminder of how scripture paints the image of the shepherd as one who is both caring and wise, a protector of the flock. As we reflected on this beautiful metaphor, I was struck by the depth of God's care for His people, echoed throughout the Bible—from Psalm 95:6-7, where we are reminded "Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker; for He is our God and we are the people of His pasture, the flock under his care"; to the comforting words of Jesus in John 10:11, declaring Himself the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for His sheep. We also see this theme continued in other places in the Bible like Matthew 2:6, Matthew 9:36 and John 21:15-17.
The conference focused on the calling of Elders and Pastors as under-shepherds, entrusted with the care of God's flock. But as I listened and reflected, I couldn't help but think about how the role of administration plays a vital part in supporting this shepherding work.
Elders are called to:
1. Know their flock
How can we support Elders to better know their flock? By knowing the gifting of the church members and understanding their passions and experiences, we can help Pastors know their flock and invite them into our church family life. Keeping the church member database well maintained and organised also plays a big part in our Church Leaders ability to get to know their flock.
2. Feed their flock
Elders, Vicars, Pastors and Church Leaders are called to feed their sheep but how much easier can we make it by ensuring the room is set up well for everyone to hear - ensuring it's warm, the chairs are set up comfortably, the room is tidy. Some of us will be booking in speakers, making sure the sermon is quickly accessible online for those who missed it, distributing resources for small groups or managing and organising the book shop - these all play a key role in feeding the flock.
3. Lead their flock
From communications being sent to the church to organising diaries to allow for pastoral visits to take place, our coordinating can help Elders to lead their flock.
4. Protect their flock
Administration covers a lot of the practical protection of the flock. One way to protect the flock is ensuring the policies, procedures and risk assessments are all up-to-date, insurance is in place where needed, our buildings are well maintained and our staff and volunteers are trained to carry out their roles safely. This frees up our Church Leaders to think through how else they need to protect the flock.
5. Search for sheep
Supporting, organising and communicating evangelistic events like Visitor Sundays and Alpha Courses as well as keeping the website and social media updated allows for sheep to be brought in.
So, I'm not called to be a shepherd but shepherding is administration and needs administration. How does this affect me today? Maybe when you get a chance, stop for about 10 minutes and think it through. How can I apply this in my role?
Also, it's worth remembering that in terms of Church Leaders, every shepherd is also a sheep. So how can we stop and pray for our leaders in our churches?
We've been called to support shepherds in shepherding.
For you,
Gavin Smith
UCAN Director