The number one challenge in a church revitalization for pastors? The pastors themselves. It’s a rare pastor who admits he needs help and is willing to do the work required to revitalize. Today we welcome Dr. Ralph Neighbour to the podcast. Ralph oversees the revitalization efforts for 2300 Baptist churches in California, and brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table.

1. What were your top one or two challenges as a lead pastor?
   • The number one challenge was me. I was my biggest challenge. Get some good mentors to help you along the way. Counseling will probably be required. Figure out where your significance is – learn to work from your identity vs. for your identity. Learn from older pastors.
   • Staff – Secure a proven process for hiring, developing, and . . . firing
2. What are the main contributors to successfully revitalizing churches?
   • t’s a rare pastor that admits he needs help and is willing to do the work required to revitalize
   • Have a plan – a five-year plan
   • Invite a coach into the revitalization process with you
   • Revitalization is a calling – confirm your personal calling to pastoral ministry first.
   • Are both you and your wife committed to the place you’re serving now – to turn it around? Revitalization probably will be an eight-year process. Going to be a lot of ups and downs
3. What are 2-3 next steps you would encourage pastors to take who are currently in a revitalization situation?
   • Have a hard/frank conversation with your wife – decide if God has called you both to stay and work on revitalization. Get settled one way or the other.
   • Find a strategic plan – preaching alone won’t revitalize your church. Prayer will revitalize your heart, but it may not revitalize your church. Find a plan that will help you move forward and the people who will come along with you
   • Disciplined execution every week of the strategic plan – you’ll need a consultant or mentor to walk with you

If you’re interested in connecting with Ralph, here is his email address: [email protected]

Rooting and praying for you!

John & Jim