Is your church looking to hire a lead pastor?
Do you know of a church looking to hire one?
I’m doing some legwork for you (or them). Here is an interview with a friend of mine, Alan Danielson.
Ever felt like God called you and equipped you to do something…yet the opportunity to express those gifts didn’t quickly come to fruition? Friends of my blog: meet Alan. Alan, meet the friends of my blog.
I “met” Alan about a year ago through his blog. I thoroughly enjoyed his updates that got my mind stirred about ministry. Then, I had the privilege of being in a small group with Alan via Tokbox. I loved hearing his heart, and seeing him offer sound, biblical wisdom to those in the group who were hurting and needed pastoring. Unfortunately, because of scheduling conflicts, I had to pull out of the group, but Alan and I have maintained contact.
Here’s my official, unsolicited endorsement of Alan: Alan is a leader. A pioneer. He thrives on shepherding a team of folks to accomplish the mission and vision of a congregation. Alan is creative. He would bring great enthusiasm and wisdom (a rare combination) to any team he were a part of. He has expertise in preaching/teaching, small groups, online ministry, and writing. He’s spoken (and been on staff at) mega-churches, small churches, conferences, and home-based small groups. But maybe the thing that has impressed me the most about Alan is hearing him pray. The way that a person prays says a lot about their spiritual maturity. Alan prays as one whose heart beats after God.
In order to give you a snapshot of Alan, and not just my words about him, I put together some questions that a typical “search committee” (or whatever form of a team a church body would assemble in order to find the person God has especially called to lead that local congregation)
I asked Alan to keep his responses brief, so to see his resume, preaching/teaching videos, recommendations, family pictures, blog, and more, you can find him at http://www.alandanielson.tv.
When it comes to ministry, what thing(s)/areas of ministry are you most passionate about?
I’m most passionate about mission and evangelism that results in discipling relationships.
Besides ministry, what things are important to you?
My relationship with God, my family, and Star Wars!
What do you do for fun?
I collect Star Wars memorabilia and create hand-made lightsaber replicas.
How has the Lord gifted you for full-time vocational ministry?
I’m a relational leader and an effective communicator.
How do you know you’re called to ministry?
I’ve been in vocational ministry since I graduated high school in 1990 and led literally thousands of people. God has chosen to use me and that constantly affirms my call.
What is it about doing full-time ministry that gets you going in the morning?
Personally connecting with people and helping them discover the ways they can grow to become like Jesus!
What strengths do you bring to the table?
Relational ability, communication, activating people to action, developing/implementing strategy, and faith.
What are your weaknesses?
Organization, spreading myself too thin, balancing work and health, and cheese burgers.
What kinds of things do you look for in a church where you would serve?
Cultural relevance, unapologetic evangelism, great family ministry, and good theology.
What makes a healthy church?
Unity, clear vision, passionate leadership, articulate leadership, and simple strategy.
What is the purpose of church?
Joining with others to fulfill Christ’s Mission through which we experience radical spiritual Formation and unbreakable relational Connection
How important is “teamwork” to you? Does it matter to you who you serve with?
Prime importance! Chemistry is the biggest factor in determining a team’s success, so yes, it definitely matters who I serve with. If the right chemistry isn’t there, disappointment will surely follow.
What is your Myers-Briggs score?
ENFP, so I’m in need of professional help!
Orange carpet or brown?
Orange, because my wife is an Oklahoma State University fan. Hey, if momma ain’t happy, nobody’s happy.
To read more, and connect with, Alan, you can find him HERE.
