how to connect with
your host pastor
THE MIND OF A PASTOR
Pastors have a very unique
and demanding job. Most
prospective pastors are
challenged to ensure that
their choice is a true calling
from God. Why? A pastor
is tasked with caring for the
spiritual and physical needs
of a community. They lead
by example. Every decision
they make is driven by a
burning passion to see
people grow in their faith.
For many, this means they
will share the burdens of
those they lead. They will
adopt the heartaches of their
community as challenges to
overcome. The life of a
pastor is extremely rewarding,
but it can be a long and
lonely journey.
Take note of the pastors and
other leaders around you
on your trip. You have the
opportunity to bring fresh
energy and hope to their
ministries. Engaging with their
vision drives them closer to
their God-given calling. This is
one of the most inspiring and
affirming gifts you can give to
them as leaders. Shepherding
a church can leave leaders
depleted and overwhelmed
by the problems surounding
them. People often expect
pastors to be available
constantly, both physically
and spiritually. It can be
very lonely to try to carry
that weight without a good
support system to help.
Pastors need people who
will pour into them with no
strings attached. In other
words, if you can find ways
to sacrificially love on these
church leaders and support
them as they give their all,
the ripple effects of their
renewed hope will span
community-wide.
We have outlined a few
suggestions to get you
excited about serving your
host pastor/leaders on the
next page. We believe God
is giving you an opportunity
to invest in the heart of a
pastor. If you do, you will
leave a lasting mark on the
community where you are
ministering this week.
CONVERSATION STARTERS
• How long have you been
in ministry?
• What types of ministries
does your church do?
• What’s the best way
to do outreach in your
community?
• How long have you been in
this location?
• (If married) How long have
you been married?
• How many kids do you
have? Grandkids?
• What are their names?
What do they do? Where do
they live?
• What’s your favorite thing
to do to relax?
• Do you have any advice
for me?
36